What is hyaluronic acid?

• Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in healthy joint fluid. Its role is to lubricate and cushion the joint, allowing smooth, comfortable movement.

• In people with osteoarthritis, the natural hyaluronic acid in the joint can become thinner and less effective. Hyaluronic acid injections help restore lubrication, reduce friction, and improve joint movement, particularly in the knee and shoulder.

What are hyaluronic acid injections used for?

Hyaluronic acid injections are commonly used to treat:

• Knee osteoarthritis

• Shoulder osteoarthritis

• Joint stiffness and reduced mobility

They are often chosen by patients looking for longer-term symptom relief and a treatment with fewer side effects.

How long do hyaluronic acid injections take to work?

• Hyaluronic acid injections usually work gradually. Many patients notice improvement over several weeks, with benefits that may last for several months.

• Your physiotherapist will explain what to expect based on your condition and activity level.

What is a corticosteroid injection?

A corticosteroid injection contains a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that is delivered directly into the joint or surrounding tissues.

Corticosteroids help to:

• Reduce inflammation

• Relieve pain quickly

• Improve movement in the short term

They are commonly used for knee and shoulder pain, particularly when symptoms are caused by inflammation.

What are corticosteroid injections used for?

Corticosteroid injections may be recommended for:

• Knee or shoulder joint inflammation

• Painful osteoarthritis flare-ups

• Bursitis or shoulder inflammation

• Certain tendon-related conditions

They are often used when pain is significantly limiting movement or daily activities.

How quickly do corticosteroid injections work?

• Corticosteroid injections often provide faster pain relief, sometimes within a few days. However, the effects may be shorter-term compared to hyaluronic acid injections.

What are the possible side effects of corticosteroid injections?

Most patients tolerate corticosteroid injections well. However, possible side effects can include:

• Temporary increase in pain after the injection

• Skin thinning or colour change around the injection site

• Increased blood sugar levels (especially in people with diabetes)

• Reduced joint or tendon tissue strength with repeated injections

For this reason, corticosteroid injections are used carefully and sparingly, following a full assessment.

Are corticosteroid injections safe?

• When used appropriately and in limited numbers, corticosteroid injections are considered safe. At Joint Solutions, they are only recommended when clinically appropriate and are always part of a physiotherapy-led treatment plan.

What is a combined hyaluronic acid and corticosteroid injection?

A combined injection contains both hyaluronic acid and a corticosteroid in a single treatment.

This option can:

• Provide quick pain relief from inflammation

• Offer longer-term joint lubrication and comfort

• Improve mobility while longer-lasting benefits develop

It may be suitable for patients who need both immediate and sustained relief.

How do I know which injection is right for me?

There is no single “best” injection for everyone. The most suitable option depends on:

• Whether your symptoms affect the knee or shoulder

• The underlying condition

• Severity and duration of symptoms

• Previous treatments and response

• Your overall health and activity goals

Your physiotherapist will explain all options clearly and help you choose the most appropriate treatment.

Are knee and shoulder injections painful?

• Most patients find knee and shoulder injections very tolerable. Any discomfort is usually brief, and every effort is made to keep the procedure as comfortable as possible.

How long do knee or shoulder injections last?

• Relief varies between individuals. Some patients experience symptom improvement for several months. Your clinician will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.

Do I need a referral for joint injections?

• No referral is required. You can contact Joint Solutions directly to arrange an assessment and discuss knee or shoulder injection therapy.

Do you offer home visit knee and shoulder injections?

• Yes. We provide home visit joint injections across the West Midlands, including Worcestershire, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire.

Are injections used on their own?

• No. Injections at Joint Solutions are part of a wider treatment plan, which may include physiotherapy, exercise advice, and guidance on joint supports or bracing to support long-term recovery.