Hip Injection Treatment

Hip Joint Injections: A Detailed Overview for Diagnosis and Pain Relief

Hip joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat hip pain, especially in conditions like arthritis. These injections can help alleviate discomfort, improve mobility, and, in some cases, delay the need for more invasive treatments like surgery. They are performed with the guidance of imaging technologies to ensure the injection is delivered accurately into the hip joint.

What Are Hip Joint Injections?

Hip joint injections involve administering medication directly into the joint space, typically under local anaesthetic. Depending on the type of injection, the purpose may be to:

  • Diagnose whether the hip joint is the primary source of pain (diagnostic injections).
  • Relieve hip pain and improve joint function (therapeutic injections).

Pierre Nasr Hip and Knee Injections (youtube.com)

 

hip joint injection

How Hip Joint Injections Are Performed

Imaging Guidance:

  • Hip injections are typically performed using x-ray (fluoroscopy) or ultrasound guidance to ensure precise needle placement in the joint space. The hip joint is deep within the body, so imaging is essential to avoid surrounding tissues and ensure that the medication is delivered directly into the joint.
  • Fluoroscopy uses a continuous x-ray beam to provide real-time imaging, while ultrasound offers a radiation-free alternative, using sound waves to create detailed images of the hip.

Local Anaesthetic:

  • A local anaesthetic is sometimes applied to numb the injection site, minimising discomfort during the procedure but is often not necessary due to the small diameter of the needle. The injection is often quick, and the entire procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.

Types of Hip Joint Injections

1. Diagnostic Hip Injections:

2. Therapeutic Hip Injections:

Steroid (Corticosteroid) Injections:

Steroids are strong anti-inflammatory medications that can be injected directly into the hip joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. These injections are particularly useful in treating hip arthritis, synovitis, or bursitis.

Alternative & Experimental Injections:

The Injection Procedure Step-by-Step

    Preparation: The patient lies down, and the injection site is sterilised to minimise the risk of infection. A local anaesthetic may be applied to numb the area.

    Injection: Once the needle is correctly positioned, the medication (either anaesthetic, steroid, hyaluronic acid, or PRP) is slowly injected into the joint space.

    Imaging: The doctor uses x-ray or ultrasound imaging to visualise the joint and ensure precise needle placement.

    Post-Procedure: After the injection, the patient is monitored for a short time to ensure there are no immediate reactions. Most patients can go home within an hour.

What to Expect After a Hip Injection

    Immediate Relief: Patients receiving a diagnostic injection may experience immediate pain relief due to the local anaesthetic. However, this relief is usually temporary and wears off within hours.

    Activity Restrictions: it is usually recommended to avoid strenuous activity for 24-48 hours following the injection to allow the medication to take full effect. Light activities such as walking are typically allowed.

    Therapeutic Relief: For therapeutic injections, it may take several days to feel the full effect. Relief can last for weeks or months, depending on the medication used and the individual’s condition.

Potential Risks and Complications

While hip injections are generally safe, there are a few potential risks:

  • Infection: Proper sterile techniques minimise this risk, but any injection into a joint carries a small chance of infection.
  • Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may have allergic reactions to the injected substances, especially to hyaluronic acid or steroids.
  • Bleeding: In rare cases, patients with certain medical conditions or who are on blood-thinning medications may experience bleeding at the injection site.
  • Temporary Pain or Swelling: Some patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or increased pain at the injection site shortly after the procedure. This typically resolves within a few days.

Benefits of Hip Joint Injections

  • Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits is the significant reduction in pain, allowing patients to return to normal activities and improve their quality of life.
  • Improved Mobility: Therapeutic injections can restore joint function, making it easier to perform daily activities like walking, sitting, and standing.
  • Delaying Surgery: For some patients, injections can delay or even prevent the need for hip replacement surgery, especially in cases of mild to moderate arthritis.

Long-Term Care and Follow-Up

  • Repeat Injections: Depending on the patient’s response, repeat injections may be recommended. For example, steroid injections may be administered once every six months to maintain pain relief.
  • Complementary Treatments: Injections are often used alongside other treatments such as physical therapy, weight management, and oral medications to support joint health and reduce strain on the hip.

When to Consider Hip Joint Injections

Hip injections are often recommended when:

  • Conservative treatments like oral pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, or physical therapy have not provided sufficient relief.
  • The patient is not yet ready for surgery but is experiencing significant pain or limited mobility due to arthritis or other hip conditions.

For those suffering from hip pain, joint injections can offer an effective, minimally invasive solution to improve quality of life. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate type of injection and treatment plan for your individual needs.

Why Choose Us

At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care for hip and knee conditions. Here's why you should choose us.

Experience

Mr Pierre Nasr has extensive experience in hip and knee treatments, performing hundreds of hip and knee procedures annually.

Expertise

As a specialist in hip and knee surgeries, Mr Nasr brings a depth of knowledge to every case.

Personalised Care

We tailor our approach to each patient's unique needs and circumstances.

Proven Outcomes

Our clinic consistently achieves excellent results, with high patient satisfaction rates.

Success stories for our patients

Our dedication to outstanding care is evident in the stories of our patients. Explore how our treatments have significantly improved lives, offering relief and restoring mobility for individuals just like you.

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Caroline SCATTERGOOD
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My experience has been PERFECT. Mr Pierre Nasr,explains every thing so clearly and with compassion. He has a way with him that makes you feel good and strong .! Really prompt attention from Sarah, not left worrying if you will here from her ..! Every one at 3 shires are exceptionally, kind and caring ... so well done .... and THANKYOU so much x If medals were awarded you would all get Gold medals for GREAT GREAT WORK. LOVE Caroline. 🏆💙.x
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Lorraine Stones
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I had a knee replacement surgery at Three Shires. The care I received was excellent, all the staff were friendly and made me feel at ease. The surgery went well , Mr Nasr and Mr Tanner were both welcoming and explained everything to me and made sure that I understood what was going to be done, even the after care was excellent. My time in Three Shires was very relaxing and the staff were there for you anytime night or day. I would highly recommend going there for your treatment.
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Linda Pike
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I had absolutely wonderful care at Three Shires hospital in Northampton and great recoveries from two total knee replacements carried out by Mr Pierre Nasr. Mr Howard Tanner followed up on my care after the operations and was extremely professional and personable. Many thanks to all.
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Geraldine Smith
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Had a TKR at Three Shires Hospital on 7/11/25. Right from the very begining I was told what would happen and how it would feel. I had a nerve block, and the lovely anesthetist said he would also give me sedation. I can remember going into the pre-op room, the next I remember was waking up in recovery. I can highly recommend this hospital, was really looked after. I went in as an NHS patient in a private hospital. Due to have the other knee done soon.Thank you.
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Michael H
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Went to see Pierre in 2018 for an Arthroscopy it’s my 5th and by far the most pain free of them all I was walking fine after 2/3 days and back to work after 7 Can’t thank Pierre enough & 16th December 2025 I’ve had a 1/2 knee replacement so far so good Thanks again Pierre I hope to play Tennis again & possibly ski again in the future
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David Medlicott
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Had appointment with Mr salha. A consultant at three shires hospital. when we arrived we found plenty of parking.well signed posted. And well-maintained. On entering the reception it was well light and very cleen. The receptionist was very polite and directed me to were i needed to be. The dowas on time.well managed And explain everything in detail that need to be done. Escorted me to the x-ray department. Then when x-ray was sent to his computer.he proceeded to point out the problem things and explain what the next step should be. Left there with a hand shake and a feeling of reassurance I would highly recommend this hospital
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Mike Fearey
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Everything was excellent. I can wholeheartedly recommend Pierre Nasr and the Three Shires Hospital.
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Vivienne and John Benjamin
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Very pleased with the care received from Mr Nasr. He is professional yet friendly and approachable. He explains things in an understandable way. Surgery went smoothly and successfully.
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Nicola Newman
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Mr Nasr is very personable, knowledgeable and skilled. He put me at my ease during the first consultation, before and after my hip revision surgery and at follow-up. He allows time for questions and answers thoroughly, with examples of scans / evidence. Highly recommended.
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Mark Cotton
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An extremely professional, expedient and flexible experience with a brilliant, pain free outcome. Cannot recommend highly enough

 

Ways to get in touch

Mr Pierre Nasr, MBBS BSc Dip IMC RCS (Ed) FRCS (Tr&Orth), is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon with extensive experience in hip and knee replacements and fracture management. His expertise ensures you receive the highest standard of care at Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic.

Remote Consultations for Hip and Knee Pain and Lower Limb Trauma

Experiencing hip or knee pain or a recent lower limb injury? You no longer need to wait for in-person appointments to receive expert advice and care. At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, we offer remote consultations that allow you to discuss your condition with our specialist team from the comfort of your own home.

For more information about fracture treatment or to schedule a consultation with Mr Nasr, please contact us:

    Circle Three Shires Hospital, The Avenue, Northampton NN1 5DR

    Hip Injection FAQ's

    What is a hip joint injection?

    A hip joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure in which medication is delivered directly into the hip joint space. It can serve two purposes: diagnostic, to confirm whether the hip is the source of your pain, or therapeutic, to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility. Hip injections are performed under imaging guidance (X-ray or ultrasound) to ensure the needle is accurately placed deep within the joint.

    What types of hip injections are available at Northampton Hip & Knee Clinic?

    The main types offered at Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic include steroid (corticosteroid) injections, which are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can provide significant pain relief; hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections, which restore joint lubrication; and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, which use your own blood to encourage natural healing. Mr Pierre Nasr will discuss the most appropriate type for your specific condition and circumstances.

    How long does a hip steroid injection last?

    A steroid injection typically begins to take effect within one to three days and reaches its full benefit within seven to ten days. Relief commonly lasts between three and four months, though some patients experience benefit for considerably longer. The local anaesthetic included in the injection may provide immediate, temporary pain relief lasting a few hours before the steroid takes over.

    Is a hip injection painful?

    Most patients find the procedure well tolerated with minimal discomfort. Because the hip joint sits deep within the body, imaging guidance is used to place the needle precisely. A local anaesthetic may be applied to numb the skin beforehand. The injection itself is quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes in total. Some mild soreness or swelling at the injection site for a day or two is normal and usually resolves on its own.

    Are there any risks associated with hip injections?

    Hip injections are generally very safe when performed by a specialist using proper sterile technique. As with any injection into a joint, there is a small risk of infection, temporary post-injection soreness (sometimes called a ‘steroid flare’), or, rarely, an allergic reaction. Repeated steroid injections are used cautiously, as too many over a short period can potentially weaken surrounding tissues. Mr Nasr will discuss all relevant risks with you before proceeding.

    Can a hip injection delay the need for a hip replacement?

    Yes, for many patients, hip injections can provide meaningful relief and help delay or even avoid the need for surgical intervention, particularly in cases of mild to moderate arthritis. They are often combined with physiotherapy, weight management, and oral pain medications to optimise outcomes. If your arthritis is more advanced, injections may still offer temporary relief while you plan further treatment.