1. How long does a joint injection appointment take?

A typical appointment lasts around 30 minutes, including consultation, consent, and the injection itself, which usually takes less than 5 minutes. After the procedure, you will receive aftercare instructions and can leave shortly after.

2. Do I need a referral to book an appointment?

No referral is necessary. You can book directly with us. However, a specialist will assess your condition during the consultation to determine whether an injection is clinically appropriate for you.

3. Are joint injections covered by insurance?

Yes, we accept most major private health insurance providers. If you are self-funding, we offer transparent pricing and payment options.

4. What conditions do joint injections treat?

We provide injections to manage pain and inflammation caused by:

• Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, shoulder, etc.)
• Tendinitis & Bursitis
• Frozen Shoulder
• Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Other musculoskeletal conditions

5. Are joint injections painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. A local anesthetic is often used to numb the area, and any mild post-injection soreness usually resolves within 24-48 hours.

6. What should I do after the injection?

• Rest the injected area for at least 24 hours. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours.
• Mild soreness is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
• Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) to reduce swelling if needed.
• Monitor for infection—if you experience increased redness, swelling, or fever, seek medical attention.

7. Are there any side effects?

Potential side effects are rare but may include:

• Temporary pain flare-up (affecting about 1 in 50 patients)
• Skin thinning or lightening at the injection site
• Temporary increase in blood sugar levels (important for diabetic patients)
• Very rare risk of infection (1 in 10,000 cases)

8. Can I receive a steroid injection if I have diabetes?

Yes, but steroid injections can temporarily raise blood sugar levels. If you have insulin-dependent diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely for 5-7 days after the injection and consult your doctor if levels remain high.

9. How long does it take for a joint injection to work?

The effects of the injection can vary:

• Pain relief may begin within a few days but can take up to two weeks.
• Relief typically lasts several weeks to months, depending on the condition and the type of injection.

10. How often can I have a steroid injection?

Steroid injections should generally not be repeated more than every 3-4 months in the same joint. Your specialist will advise you on the best treatment plan based on your condition.

11. Can I drive after a joint injection?

Most patients can drive after a few hours, but if the injection is in your leg, foot, or dominant hand, it’s best to arrange alternative transportation on the day of the procedure.

12. Who performs the injections?

All injections at The Joint Pain Clinic are administered by highly experienced consultants specializing in musculoskeletal and pain management treatments.

13. Can I have an injection if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor beforehand. Certain injections may be delayed or modified based on your situation.

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