Knee Osteoarthritis Cortisone Injections
Knee osteoarthritis can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods feel increasingly difficult. As the cartilage within the knee gradually wears down, inflammation often develops inside the joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer knee osteoarthritis cortisone injections to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve movement.
What Are Cortisone Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis?
Cortisone injections are a type of corticosteroid injection used to treat inflammation within the knee joint. Osteoarthritis is often associated with flare-ups of swelling and irritation, which can significantly worsen pain and stiffness.
By delivering cortisone directly into the affected joint, the medication works locally to calm inflammation and reduce discomfort. This targeted approach often provides more effective relief than oral anti-inflammatory medication alone.
At Alton Pain Clinic, all injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, allowing us to place the medication precisely where it is needed for the best possible outcome.
How Knee Osteoarthritis Causes Pain
Knee osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the joint gradually breaks down over time. As this happens, the joint can become inflamed and irritated, leading to symptoms such as:
- Knee pain during walking or standing
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Swelling or fluid build-up
- Reduced flexibility and mobility
- Difficulty with stairs or kneeling
When inflammation is driving symptoms, cortisone injections can be an effective way to settle the joint and provide symptom relief.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your appointment begins with a detailed consultation and musculoskeletal assessment to understand your symptoms, activity levels, and treatment history. If needed, an ultrasound scan will be used to assess the knee joint and guide the injection accurately.
The procedure itself is quick and typically well tolerated. A fine needle is guided into the knee joint under ultrasound imaging to ensure precise placement of the medication.
Most patients can walk out of the clinic afterwards, although you may be advised to avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.
Relief often begins within a few days, with full benefits developing over one to two weeks.
Benefits of Knee Osteoarthritis Cortisone Injections
- Targeted reduction of inflammation
- Relief from pain and stiffness
- Improved mobility and joint comfort
- Minimally invasive treatment
- Supports physiotherapy and rehabilitation
For many patients, the goal is to reduce symptoms enough to allow more comfortable movement and improved participation in strengthening exercises.
Part of a Wider Treatment Plan
While cortisone injections can be very effective, they are not a cure for osteoarthritis. They work best when combined with a wider management plan that may include physiotherapy, strengthening exercises, weight management, and activity modification.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we focus on helping you manage knee osteoarthritis effectively so you can stay as active and comfortable as possible.
Book Your Consultation
If knee osteoarthritis is affecting your mobility or quality of life, a cortisone injection may help reduce pain and improve movement.
Contact Alton Pain Clinic today to book your assessment and explore your treatment options
What our patients say
FAQs
How quickly will the injection work?
Many patients notice improvement within a few days, though full benefits can take up to two weeks.
How long does relief last?
Relief often lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of arthritis.
Is the injection painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure.
Can I walk after the injection?
Yes, but heavy activity should be avoided for a short period.
Will I still need physiotherapy?
Yes. Physiotherapy is often recommended to support long-term improvement.