Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of joint pain and stiffness, especially in the knees, hips, and shoulders. When oral medications and physiotherapy aren’t enough, intra-articular (joint) injections can provide fast, targeted relief. At Niva Medical Clinic in Stanmore, we offer both cortisone (steroid) and hyaluronic acid (HA) joint injections to help patients in Harrow, Edgware, Bushey, Watford, Northwood, Wembley, and across North West London regain comfort and mobility.
But which option is best for your joint pain? Let’s break down the evidence and benefits behind each treatment.
Cortisone (Steroid) Injections: Fast Relief from Inflammation
What they are: Corticosteroids—often referred to as cortisone injections—are powerful anti-inflammatory medications injected directly into the joint.
How they work: These injections reduce inflammation in the joint lining, offering rapid relief—typically within 24 to 72 hours.
Duration of relief: Pain relief usually lasts 3 to 6 weeks, though some patients experience longer relief. However, repeated cortisone injections (more than 3–4 annually) may carry risks such as cartilage thinning.
Best for:
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Acute flare-ups of joint pain
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Swollen, inflamed joints
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Moderate to severe osteoarthritis symptoms
Evidence-based support:
A Cochrane review (2021) confirmed that corticosteroid (cortisone) injections provide moderate short-term pain relief (up to 6 weeks) for knee osteoarthritis compared to placebo (Cochrane Review).
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections: Restoring Joint Lubrication
What they are: Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of joint fluid that helps lubricate and cushion the joint. In osteoarthritis, HA levels decline, increasing joint friction and discomfort.
How they work: HA injections—also called viscosupplementation—restore joint lubrication, reduce stiffness, and may slow disease progression in some cases.
Duration of relief: Relief is gradual, typically starting after 1–2 weeks, but may last up to 6 months.
Best for:
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Mild to moderate osteoarthritis
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Active individuals
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Patients preferring non-steroidal, longer-acting solutions
Evidence-based support:
A 2022 meta-analysis in Clinical Rheumatology found that HA injections offer moderate pain relief lasting up to 26 weeks, with fewer adverse effects than cortisone/steroid injections (Zhou et al., 2022).
Cortisone vs HA Injections: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Cortisone (Steroid) Injections | Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections |
|---|---|---|
| Also known as | Steroid injections, cortisone | Viscosupplementation |
| Onset of relief | 1–3 days | 1–2 weeks |
| Duration | 3–6 weeks | Up to 6 months |
| Best for | Flare-ups, inflammation | Long-term joint care |
| Risks | Overuse may affect cartilage | Minimal side effects |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Which Is Right for You?
The right injection for you depends on factors such as:
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The severity of your osteoarthritis
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Whether you have joint swelling or inflammation
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How quickly you need pain relief
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Your age, activity level, and medical history
Are There Any Risks? Understanding Side Effects and Aftercare
At Niva Medical Clinic, joint injections are delivered by highly experienced GPs and MSK clinicians, using strict clinical protocols to minimise risk. However, as with any medical procedure, some mild and rare side effects may occur.
🩸 Possible Immediate Side Effects and Risks:
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Temporary pain or swelling (known as a “post-injection flare”) – usually settles within 24–48 hours
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Bruising or minor bleeding at the injection site
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Infection (very rare – fewer than 1 in 10,000 injections)
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Skin thinning or discolouration over the injection site (more likely with repeated cortisone injections)
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Joint stiffness or increased discomfort temporarily after the procedure
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Allergic reaction (extremely rare, especially with HA injections)
If you have diabetes, cortisone injections may cause a temporary spike in blood sugar for 1–2 days. Our clinicians will discuss this with you beforehand if relevant.
🛑 If you develop increasing pain, redness, warmth, or fever after the injection, seek urgent medical attention to rule out infection.
Aftercare Advice: Supporting a Smooth Recovery
To get the best outcome from your injection:
✅ On the Day:
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Rest the joint for 24–48 hours – gentle movement is fine, but avoid heavy exercise or impact
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Use a cold compress if there’s any soreness or swelling
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Keep the area clean and dry for at least 24 hours
✅ In the Days After:
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Avoid high-impact activity (e.g. running, heavy lifting) for 2–3 days
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You may gradually return to normal exercise as pain improves
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Monitor your symptoms – most people feel significant relief within a few days (for cortisone) or 1–2 weeks (for HA)
🩺 Follow-Up Care:
Our clinicians may recommend:
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Physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and protect the joint
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Lifestyle advice (e.g. weight management, posture) to reduce strain
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A review appointment if further injections or alternative treatments are needed
Why Choose Niva Medical Clinic in Stanmore?
Experienced Clinicians – Injections are performed by experienced GPs and Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapists
Fast Access – Same-day or next-day appointments available
Prime Location – Serving Stanmore, Harrow, Edgware, Watford, Bushey, Wembley, Hatch End, and Northwood
Comprehensive Care – Physiotherapy, weight loss, and follow-up under one roof
Continuity and Compassion – Long-term doctor-patient relationships that prioritise your well-being
Book Your Cortisone or Hyaluronic Acid Injection Today
Don’t let joint pain control your life. Whether you’re struggling with knee arthritis, shoulder pain, or hip stiffness, our team is here to help.
📞 Call us on 020 8865 1938
🌐 Book online
📍 Visit us in Stanmore, North West London
Niva Medical Clinic – Personalised, professional care for your joints and your health.
