Knee Joint Injection

What is a knee joint injection?

A knee joint injection is a commonly performed procedure designed to alleviate pain and inflammation in the knee. It is often used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, and other inflammatory joint disorders. The procedure involves injecting medication directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Typically, the injection contains a combination of corticosteroid, which helps reduce inflammation and a local anaesthetic, which provides immediate pain relief.

When is a knee joint injection recommended?

Knee joint injections are performed to provide significant relief from knee pain and inflammation, especially in cases of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions cause inflammation in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The injection helps to reduce this inflammation, improving joint function and providing relief from discomfort.

Knee joint injections can also be used as a diagnostic tool to determine if the knee joint is the primary source of pain. This is particularly helpful when other tests, such as imaging scans, are inconclusive. The temporary pain relief provided by the injection can confirm whether the knee is contributing to the symptoms.

In some cases, these injections may be part of a treatment plan to delay the need for more invasive surgery such as knee replacement, allowing patients to manage symptoms more effectively.

What does the procedure involve?

Knee joint injections are typically carried out in an outpatient setting, and the procedure usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes. You may be asked to change into a gown and lie comfortably on an examination table. The area around your knee will be thoroughly cleaned with an antiseptic solution to minimise the risk of infection.

A local anaesthetic is often applied to numb the area and reduce any discomfort during the injection. To ensure accuracy, your doctor may use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to precisely guide the needle into the knee joint. Once in place, the medication is injected directly into the joint space.

After the injection, you will be monitored for a short time to ensure there are no immediate reactions. Most patients can go home the same day and resume light activities soon after.

What are the potential risks and complications?

While knee joint injections are generally safe, there are potential risks and side effects. It is also common to experience temporary soreness or discomfort in the knee joint following the procedure. Minor bleeding at the injection site can occur. Infection at the injection site is rare.

After the procedure

You should rest the knee and avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Applying an ice pack to the injection site can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

Be sure to follow any prescribed medication guidelines and monitor the knee for any unusual symptoms. If severe pain or persistent swelling develops, contact your GP or local A&E department for further evaluation.

It is also important to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to assess how well the injection worked and to discuss further treatment options, if necessary. Your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments, including physiotherapy, to enhance the long-term benefits of the knee injection.