Steroid and Hyaluronic Acid Joint Injections
Relief from joint pain, stiffness and inflammation – without surgery
At Skinoza Clinic, we provide advanced medical solutions for joint pain caused by arthritis, injury, inflammation or overuse. Our steroid and hyaluronic acid joint injections offer fast, targeted relief — helping you move freely and regain quality of life without the need for invasive surgery or long-term pain medication.
Whether you suffer from knee arthritis, shoulder bursitis, hip pain or joint inflammation, our experienced clinicians deliver safe and effective injections using sterile technique and evidence-based practice.
What are joint injections?
Joint injections involve delivering a medication directly into the affected joint (such as the knee, shoulder, hip or ankle) to reduce pain, swelling and stiffness. This allows for precise, targeted treatment of inflammation — often giving faster and longer-lasting relief than oral medicines.
At Skinoza Clinic, we specialise in two main types of joint injections:
● Hyaluronic acid injections To improve lubrication, cushioning and movement within the joint.
Both treatments are performed by trained clinicians in a clean, clinical environment with minimal discomfort and downtime.
Conditions commonly treated
Joint injections can help with a wide range of musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions, including:
● Rheumatoid arthritis (Localised flares)
● Bursitis and tendonitis:
● Frozen shoulder (Adhesive capsulitis)
● Tennis or golfer’s elbow
● Knee pain after injury
● Shoulder impingement or rotator cuff inflammation
● Ankle, wrist or finger joint pain
Steroid (Corticosteroid) joint injections
What they are
Steroid injections contain a synthetic form of cortisone, a natural anti-inflammatory hormone produced by your body. When injected into the joint or surrounding tissues, corticosteroids rapidly reduce inflammation, swelling and irritation.
Commonly used steroids include triamcinolone, methylprednisolone and hydrocortisone. These are administered with a small amount of local anaesthetic for immediate comfort.
Benefits of steroid injections
● Reduced swelling and stiffness
● Improved mobility and function
● May delay or prevent need for surgery
● Allows physiotherapy or exercise rehabilitation
The effects typically last several weeks to several months, depending on the individual and the severity of inflammation.
Ideal for:
● Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip or shoulder
● Bursitis or tendon inflammation
● Frozen shoulder
● Acute joint flare-ups
Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections
What they are
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance found in joint fluid that helps lubricate and cushion the joint. Over time — especially in arthritis — hyaluronic acid levels decline, leading to friction, stiffness and pain.
A hyaluronic acid injection replenishes this natural fluid, improving joint lubrication and absorbing shock.
Commonly used brands include Ostenil®, Durolane®, Synvisc® and Euflexxa®, all approved for medical use in Europe and the UK.
Benefits of hyaluronic acid injections
● Reduces pain and stiffness without steroids.
● Improves mobility and function
● Drug-free, natural component of joint fluid.
● Suitable for patients unable to take steroids
● Can be repeated every 6–12 months
The effects of hyaluronic acid injections build gradually over a few weeks and may last up to 6–12 months.
Ideal for:
● Patients unsuitable for steroids (e.g. diabetes, hypertension)
● Long-term management of joint pain
Combined treatment: Steroid + Hyaluronic Acid
In some cases, we combine a low-dose steroid with hyaluronic acid in a single session. This offers:
● Immediate relief from steroid’s anti-inflammatory action.
● Long-term lubrication from hyaluronic acid.
This dual approach is ideal for patients seeking both short-term comfort and sustained mobility improvement.
How joint injections work
Both steroid and hyaluronic acid injections target pain directly at its source:
● Hyaluronic acid restores the natural protective coating and fluid that cushions joint surfaces.
Together, these help restore balance, comfort and motion within the affected joint.
What to expect during your appointment
1. Initial consultation
Your visit begins with a detailed consultation and joint assessment. We’ll discuss:
● Past medical history and medication
● X-ray or imaging reports (if available)
● Treatment options and expected outcomes
If suitable, the injection can often be performed during the same appointment.
2. The procedure
● Local anaesthetic may be applied for comfort.
● A fine needle is inserted precisely into the joint space under sterile technique.
● The medication (steroid or hyaluronic acid) is injected slowly.
● A small dressing is applied afterwards.
The entire process takes 15–30 minutes.
3. Aftercare
● Avoid heavy exercise or strenuous activity for 48 hours.
● Continue gentle joint movement to maintain flexibility.
● Pain relief typically begins within 1–3 days (for steroids) or 1–2 weeks (for hyaluronic acid).
You can usually resume normal daily activities the same or next day.
Results and effectiveness
Steroid injections
Most patients experience significant relief within 24–72 hours, lasting from 6 weeks to 6 months depending on the condition.
Hyaluronic acid injections
Effects build more gradually over 1–2 weeks, with maximum improvement around 4–6 weeks, lasting up to 12 months in some cases.
Regular physiotherapy and weight management can enhance and prolong results.
Safety and possible side effects
Both steroid and hyaluronic acid injections are considered safe and well-tolerated when performed by trained professionals.
Possible mild effects include:
● Slight bruising or swelling
● Warmth or redness for 24–48 hours
● Rare infection (<1 in 10,000 cases)
Steroid-specific side effects (rare):
● Mild increase in blood sugar (especially in diabetics)
● Skin thinning or lightening at injection site (with repeated use)
Hyaluronic acid-specific side effects:
At Skinoza Clinic, injections are performed in a sterile environment using single-use, high-quality equipment, ensuring maximum safety.
Who should not have joint injections?
Joint injections may not be suitable if you:
● Have a bleeding disorder or take anticoagulants
● Are allergic to the medication used
● Are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
● Have advanced joint damage where surgery may be more appropriate
A full consultation ensures your safety and suitability before proceeding.
Advantages of joint injections at Skinoza Clinic
● Experienced clinicians with medical and aesthetic expertise
● Sterile, comfortable environment
● Advanced products (Ostenil®, Durolane®, etc.)
● Quick, non-surgical pain relief
● Personalised aftercare and follow-up support
● Convenient appointments – open until 8 pm in Greenwich
We focus on both function and comfort – our goal is to help you move with confidence again.
Joint injections vs. other treatments
| Treatment type | Speed of relief | Duration | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral painkillers (NSAIDs) | Hours | Short-term | Mild pain |
| Physiotherapy | Gradual | Ongoing | Strength & mobility |
| Steroid injection | 1–3 days | Weeks–months | Acute inflammation |
| Hyaluronic acid injection | 1–2 weeks | 6–12 months | Osteoarthritis |
| Surgery | Months | Long-term | Severe joint damage |
Joint injections bridge the gap between simple painkillers and surgery — providing effective, minimally invasive relief for many patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Steroid injections last from 6 weeks to 6 months. Hyaluronic acid injections may last 6 to 12 months, depending on your activity level and severity of arthritis.
Steroids often begin working within 1–3 days, while hyaluronic acid builds gradually over 1–2 weeks.
Yes, as long as you feel comfortable and can safely operate the pedals.
Yes. Combining both in the same session can provide both quick and long-term relief.
Typically up to 3 steroid injections per joint per year. Hyaluronic acid injections can be repeated every 6–12 months.
Only mildly. A local anaesthetic is used to minimise discomfort. Most patients report only brief pressure or stinging.
No referral is required. You can book directly with Skinoza Clinic for assessment and treatment.
Light activity is fine after 48 hours, but avoid strenuous or high-impact exercise for 3–5 days.
Aftercare and recovery tips
Before the procedure
● Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for two days.
● Apply a cold compress if the area feels sore.
● Do not soak in baths or pools for 24 hours.
● Resume physiotherapy gradually after three days.
● Contact the clinic if you experience persistent pain, swelling, redness or fever.
Most patients resume normal daily activities the same or next day.
Why choose Skinoza Clinic?
● Convenient Greenwich location – easy access, flexible hours.
● Fully equipped treatment rooms – for minor procedures and injections.
● Transparent pricing and honest advice – we only recommend what you truly need.
● Ongoing support – follow-up care and pain management advice included.
We pride ourselves on delivering professional, compassionate care that puts your mobility and comfort first.
Your journey to pain-free movement
● Treatment plan – We explain which injection is best suited for you.
● Injection procedure – Quick, safe and minimally uncomfortable.
● Aftercare guidance – Clear instructions to ensure smooth recovery.
● Follow-up – Optional check-in to assess progress and discuss further management if required.
Our mission is simple: helping you move without pain, quickly and safely.
Summary
Joint pain can limit your movement, independence and quality of life — but surgery isn’t the only solution.
At Skinoza Clinic, our steroid and hyaluronic acid joint injections offer safe, targeted relief for arthritis, injury and inflammation.
Whether you need fast pain reduction with steroids or long-lasting lubrication from hyaluronic acid, our skilled clinicians will guide you through a treatment plan designed around your needs.
Book your appointment
To schedule your assessment and removal procedure at our Greenwich. Blackhorse or Orpington clinic, call 020 3026 6094 or book online via our website. Early consultation ensures the best outcomes—and we’ll guide you through everything clearly and confidently.
