Therapeutic Injection
A therapeutic injection is a procedure that delivers targeted medication directly into the joint to help reduce pain and inflammation. It is often used when symptoms are caused by arthritis, bursitis, or irritation inside the joint.
​
During the injection, a small amount of local anaesthetic and an anti-inflammatory medicine (usually a steroid) is carefully placed into the joint using imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or X-ray, to ensure accuracy and comfort.
​
This treatment can provide relief from pain, improve mobility, and help you return to your normal daily activities. Many people notice improvement within a few days, although the full benefit can take up to two weeks.​
Frequently Asked Questions - Therapeutic Injection
1. What is a therapeutic injection?
A therapeutic injection is a procedure where medication is placed directly into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. It usually contains a local anaesthetic for quick relief and a steroid to provide longer-lasting improvement.
2. Who is suitable for a therapeutic injection?
This treatment is often recommended for patients with pain caused by arthritis, inflammation, or irritation inside the joint. It may also be suitable if physiotherapy and pain medication haven’t helped or if your doctor wants to confirm whether the hip joint is the source of your symptoms.
3. How is a therapeutic injection different from other treatments?
Unlike tablets or general treatments, this injection targets the problem area directly. It can offer more precise pain relief and also helps your surgeon understand how much of your discomfort is coming from the joint itself.
4. What are the benefits of a therapeutic injection?
The injection can reduce pain, ease stiffness, and improve movement. It may help you return to activities that have become difficult and can delay or avoid the need for surgery in some cases.
5. What are the risks or downsides?
As with any procedure, there are small risks such as temporary discomfort, bleeding, infection, or an increase in pain for a day or two. Steroid injections may not be suitable for everyone. Your clinician will discuss the potential risks and whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
6. How long is the recovery period?
Most patients can walk straight after the injection but may feel some temporary discomfort. Improvement often begins within a few days, with full benefit appearing over 1–2 weeks.
7. When can I return to sports or exercise?
You can usually return to light activity within a day or two. Strenuous exercise should be increased gradually and discussed with your clinician, especially if certain movements trigger your symptoms.
8. How long does the injection last?
Relief can last anywhere from several weeks to several months, depending on the underlying condition and your activity level. Some patients may benefit from repeat injections, depending on clinical guidance.
9. Will I have a scar?
No, the injection is done with a small needle, so only a tiny mark may be visible for a short time. It does not leave a surgical scar.
10. How do I find out if a therapeutic injection is right for me?
Your clinician will review your symptoms, examine your hip, and look at any imaging such as
X-rays or scans to determine whether this treatment is suitable. They will also discuss alternative options if another approach may be more effective for your condition.