knee injections
Milton Keynes Pain Clinic
We provide expertly administered steroid and hyaluronic acid injections for various knee conditions. From precise cortisone injections to advanced treatments such as Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis, we are dedicated to offering effective solutions tailored to your needs.
Conditions we treat
Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)
Knee osteoarthritis is a long-term, degenerative joint condition marked by the gradual breakdown of cartilage within the knee. Cartilage is the smooth, protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones, allowing pain-free movement and absorbing impact during daily activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. In OA, this cartilage deteriorates over time, causing the bones to rub against each other, which leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
The condition progresses differently for each person. Factors such as age, family history, prior injuries, and repetitive stress on the knee can all contribute to its development. As cartilage continues to wear away, the joint space narrows, and bone spurs (osteophytes) may form, further limiting function and comfort.
Symptoms
– Pain: Aching pain in the knee, especially after activity.
– Stiffness: Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
– Swelling: Swelling around the knee joint.
– Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the knee to its full extent.
– Crepitus: A grating or clicking sensation when moving the knee.
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound Guided Cortisone injections £275
The pain and swelling associated with flare-ups of knee OA can be managed with corticosteroid Injections. By decreasing joint swelling, these injections help to decrease pain and improve function. They work very efficiently to relief pain, usually between 24 and 48 hours after the injection.
Ultrasound Guided Hyaluronic Acid (Gel) Injections £375
Hyaluronic acid injection is synthetic synovial fluid, it works as a viscosupplement for joint cartilage. By enhancing joint lubrication and lowering joint friction these gels help to manage knee osteoarthritis pain and to improve joint mobility. It may also stop the progression of osteoarthritis.
CINGAL Injections £475
CINGAL injections are popular for treating knee osteoarthritis and joint issues. These are combined hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids used to lubricate joints and reduce inflammation, providing immediate and sustained pain relief. The single injection procedure has minor side effects, with most patients resuming normal activities soon after.
Patellofemoral joint pain
Patellofemoral pain, also known as anterior knee pain, is a common condition that affects the front of the knee around the kneecap (patella). It occurs when the patella does not move smoothly against the femur (thigh bone) at the patellofemoral joint, leading to irritation and discomfort.
This condition is often linked to activities that put repeated stress on the knee, such as running, squatting, stair climbing, or sitting for long periods with bent knees. Symptoms may include aching pain in the front of the knee, stiffness, and discomfort that worsens with activity.
Symptoms
- Pain Around the Patella: Aching or sharp pain typically felt around the front of the knee or behind the kneecap.
- Pain During Activity: Discomfort usually worsens during activities that involve bending the knee, such as squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for extended periods (known as the “theatre sign”).
- Stiffness: A feeling of tightness or difficulty in moving the knee, especially after sitting for a long time.
- Crepitus: A grinding or cracking sensation when moving the knee.
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound guided Cortisone Injection This procedure uses ultrasound to precisely inject cortisone into the patellofemoral joint, reducing inflammation and pain. It helps relieve discomfort offering targeted and effective pain relief.
Ultrasound guided Hyaluronic acid Injection This procedure uses ultrasound to accurately inject hyaluronic acid into the patellofemoral joint, providing lubrication to reduce pain and improve mobility. It helps by restoring cushioning and easing joint discomfort.
Baker’s Cyst
A Baker’s cyst, or popliteal cyst, is a fluid-filled swelling that forms at the back of the knee. It often appears as a soft lump or bulge and may create a feeling of tightness or pressure, particularly when bending or straightening the knee. Some individuals also experience stiffness or mild discomfort during activities like walking, squatting, or climbing stairs.
This condition usually develops due to an underlying knee issue, such as osteoarthritis, a meniscus (cartilage) tear, or inflammatory joint disease. These problems can cause excess production of synovial fluid, which collects in a bursa behind the knee, forming the cyst.
While the cyst itself may lead to swelling and discomfort, it is typically a symptom of another joint problem. Effective management focuses on treating the root cause to help reduce fluid buildup and ease discomfort.
Olecranon bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow, which cushions and reduces friction between bones and surrounding tissues. It’s often caused by overuse, trauma, or infection, leading to swelling and discomfort that may develop suddenly or over time. Most cases improve with rest and simple treatments, with recovery taking about three to six weeks.
Symptoms
- Pain or aching in the knee, particularly during movement or after activity
- Stiffness in the joint, especially after periods of rest
- Restricted range of motion, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee
- Swelling behind the knee or extending into the calf
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection a minimally invasive treatment option for managing a Baker’s cyst. Using real-time ultrasound imaging, the clinician can accurately guide a fine needle into the cyst or surrounding tissues, ensuring precise delivery of corticosteroid medication.
This targeted technique helps reduce inflammation, alleviate discomfort, and manage swelling associated with the cyst. The use of ultrasound guidance enhances accuracy, increases treatment effectiveness, and reduces the risk of injury to nearby structures.
ITB friction syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome is an overuse injury that develops when the iliotibial band (a long tendon running from the pelvis to the knee along the outside of the thigh) becomes irritated or inflamed. This occurs due to repeated friction of the band against the hip or knee bones, especially during activities like running, cycling, or climbing stairs.
When the iliotibial band becomes overly tight, it increases tension and rubbing, leading to pain and swelling on the outer side of the knee or hip. Contributing factors include muscle imbalances, poor biomechanics, excessive training, or inadequate stretching.
Symptoms
- Hip pain: The iliotibial band may rub against the greater trochanter, where the femur widens near the hip, causing inflammation and discomfort. A snapping sound may be heard.
- Clicking sensations: A snapping, popping, or clicking sensation may occur on the outside of the knee.
- Knee pain: The iliotibial band may rub against the lateral epicondyle, where the femur widens near the knee, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Warmth and redness: The outer side of the knee may become warm to the touch and appear discoloured.
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection for the iliotibial band uses real-time imaging to precisely deliver corticosteroids to the affected area. This procedure helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, promoting healing.
Meniscal cartilage tears
A torn meniscus is among the most common knee injuries, usually caused by sudden twisting or forceful rotation of the knee while bearing weight. Each knee has two C-shaped pieces of cartilage, called menisci, that act as natural shock absorbers between the shinbone and thighbone.
When a meniscus tears, it can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee. Some people may feel as if their knee is locking, catching, or giving way. Depending on the size and location of the tear, treatment may range from rest and physical therapy to injections or surgery.
Symptoms
- A popping sensation
- Swelling or stiffness
- Pain, particularly when twisting or rotating the knee
- Difficulty fully straightening the knee
- A feeling of the knee locking in place when attempting movement
- The sensation of the knee giving way
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection
are a reliable option for managing inflammation and pain Meniscal Tears. By targeting the exact site of discomfort, these injections offer swift relief, helping to reduce swelling and restore mobility.
Patella tendinopathy (Jumpers Knee)
Patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee) is an overuse injury where the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone becomes inflamed. Common in athletes who jump frequently, it causes pain that can worsen over time. Without treatment, it may limit sports performance and daily activities.
Symptoms
- Pain or Discomfort Below the Kneecap: A hallmark symptom is pain or a dull ache at the lower part of the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone.
- Tenderness and Swelling: The area around the patellar tendon may feel tender to the touch, and some swelling might be noticeable.
- Stiffness in the Knee: Stiffness can develop, especially after periods of inactivity or rest, making it difficult to fully extend the knee.
- Sharp Pain During Movement: Movements like jumping, squatting, or climbing stairs can trigger sharp pain at the front of the knee, directly below the kneecap.
- Weakness in the Knee: Over time, untreated patellar tendonitis can lead to weakness in the knee, impacting activities that involve bending or straightening the leg.
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection
Infrapatella fat pad inflammation
Hoffa’s Fat Pad Syndrome is a common cause of anterior knee pain, occurring at the front of the knee near the kneecap. Pain often worsens during activities that load the knee, such as climbing stairs, due to pressure and muscle activation around the fat pad.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain at the front of the knee
- Pain during prolonged standing or when sitting with crossed legs
- Discomfort while walking or squatting
- Pain during sports, especially running and kicking activities
- Pain when wearing high heels
- Morning stiffness or pain after periods of rest
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection
Pes anserine bursitis
Pes Anserinus Bursitis is the inflammation of a small bursa on the inner side of the knee, where hamstring tendons meet the shinbone. Irritation causes fluid buildup, pain, and swelling, often worsened by climbing stairs or sitting for extended periods.
Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain on the inner knee (just below the joint line)
Sharpens when climbing stairs, squatting, or standing after ~20 minutes of sitting. - Localized swelling over the upper shinbone (tibia)
Visible puffiness signals fluid build‑up in the bursa. - Tenderness to touch at the spot where the three hamstrings muscle tendons insert
Pressing the area produces discomfort or sharp pain. - Morning or post‑rest stiffness in the knee
Common if there is underlying osteoarthritis of the knee; eases with gentle movement. - Combined pain and swelling increase pressure on the bursa
Makes kneeling or side‑sleeping with knees together uncomfortable.
Treatments We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection
Treatments we offer
Targeted Ultrasound Guided Cortisone Injection (£275)
Cortisone injections reduce inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis or joint injuries.
Hydrodilatation (£550)
Hydrodilatation involves injecting a high-volume saline solution with or without cortisone, into the shoulder joint to expand the joint capsule, providing relief for frozen shoulder.
Shoulder Barbotage (£550)
Shoulder Barbotage is a specialized procedure for treating calcific tendonitis. It involves breaking down and removing calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons.
