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Key Information:

  • The Mixture: Joint injections are a common treatment for pain. We usually inject a mixture of two different medicines that work at different speeds.
  • The Analogy: To understand how they work, think of them as a “Sprinter” and a “Builder.”

How the Medicines Work

  1. The Sprinter (Local Anaesthetic).
    • Speed: Immediate.
    • Role: The Sprinter bursts out of the gate to numb the joint immediately. You will often feel better before you even leave the room.
    • Duration: This numbing effect wears off after 4–6 hours.

  2. The Builder (Steroid).
    • Speed: Slow.
    • Role: The Builder arrives slowly. They take a few days to start the real work. The steroid calms the “fire” of inflammation, but it does not rebuild the joint.
 

The “Catching” Myth: It is a common misconception that if a lump “catches on clothing” or “itches,” it qualifies for removal. In most cases, this is no longer true. Unless there is proof of recurrent infection or significant bleeding, we cannot use public money to remove it.

If you dislike the appearance of a lump that has been deemed safe, we recommend seeking a private provider.

Managing “The Gap”

There is a gap between the Sprinter finishing (4–6 hours) and the Builder starting (a few days).

  • What happens: The pain may return when the numbness fades.
  • What to do: Take simple painkillers (like paracetamol) about 3 hours after your appointment. This bridges the gap and prevents a sudden spike in pain.

Important Safety Rules

  1. Driving Restrictions (Important).
    • Because the “Sprinter” numbs your joint, your reflexes may be affected.
      • If you have an injection in your knee, ankle, or foot, you CANNOT drive home.
      • Your insurance may not cover you while your limb is numb. Please arrange a lift.
  2. Rest.

For the first 48 hours, you must rest the joint. No gym, no running.

Is it a Flare or an Infection?

It is important to know the difference between a normal reaction and a medical emergency.

The Steroid Flare (Normal).

  • Symptoms: Joint feels sore, stiff, or slightly hot.
  • Duration: Lasts 24 to 48 hours.
  • Action: Rest and ice the joint.

Septic Arthritis (Emergency).

  • Symptoms: Joint becomes hot, red, and swollen. You feel unwell, shivery, or have a fever.
  • Action: This is an infection inside the joint. Go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for a GP appointment.

Consent and Risks

Before attending, please review the specific risks associated with this procedure.

Joint Injection Risks

What Happens Next?

If you have questions about joint injections, or need to discuss a booked procedure, please contact us.

Discuss your concerns

Further Information

Understanding Minor Surgery

Removing Lumps and Bumps: Understanding NHS Funding

Minor Surgery Recovery: Is My Wound Infected?

Caring for Your Wound

Managing Bleeding After Minor Surgery

For more information on how steroid injections work and their side effects, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about steroid injections

Last reviewed: 27 December 2025
Next review due: 27 December 2028