Hip Injection Therapy for Pain Relief
What Is a Cortisone Hip Injection?
A cortisone hip injection is a type of steroid injection I commonly use to help manage hip pain and swelling. Corticosteroid injections are highly effective for reducing inflammation inside the hip joint. I often recommend cortisone injections for people experiencing pain caused by hip osteoarthritis, as well as other inflammatory conditions.
In addition to steroid injections, I also offer hyaluronic acid hip injections (such as Ostenil injections). These treatments can be particularly beneficial if you have arthritis-related stiffness and need to restore natural lubrication within the joint.
How Do Hip Injections Work?
Hydrocortisone injections are a type of corticosteroid medication that works by calming your immune system’s response. This reduces inflammation and helps ease symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. When I inject hydrocortisone directly into the hip joint, about 60–70% of patients experience significant pain relief, which can last for several months after a single treatment.
Hyaluronic acid injections, sometimes called viscosupplementation, work in a different way. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in healthy joints, where it acts as both a lubricant and a shock absorber. When arthritis develops, this protective fluid breaks down, leading to friction and discomfort. By injecting hyaluronic acid back into the hip, I can help improve joint lubrication, reduce grinding sensations, and support smoother movement.
Book my hip injection
If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be happy to help. You can book an appointment by calling my team directly or using the online booking form. Whether you’re insured or self-funding, we’ll guide you through the process clearly and simply.
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Why Might You Need a Hip Injection?
There are several reasons why you may benefit from hip injection therapy. The most common cause of chronic hip pain is osteoarthritis, where the smooth cartilage gradually wears away and the joint becomes stiff and inflamed.
I also perform injections to treat greater trochanteric pain syndrome, often referred to as hip bursitis. This condition occurs when the bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the outside of the hip—becomes irritated. It can lead to a dull ache or sharp pain on the outside of the hip, which can worsen when lying on your side or climbing stairs.
Common Symptoms That Suggest You May Benefit From a Hip Injection
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, a cortisone or hyaluronic acid injection may be helpful:
- Persistent pain in your groin or upper thigh
- Discomfort severe enough to interrupt your sleep
- Difficulty walking, standing, or moving your hip normally
- Pain that has not improved with physiotherapy or pain relief medication
If these symptoms sound familiar, I recommend booking an assessment so we can explore the most suitable treatment for your hip pain.
What Does a Hip Injection Involve?
The injection itself is a deep, targeted procedure, carried out under imaging guidance—usually ultrasound or X-ray—to ensure precise placement of the medication.
During your appointment:
- I will clean and numb the skin over your hip.
- I use imaging to guide the needle into the hip joint.
- The medication—either a steroid injection, hyaluronic acid injection, or a combination—is carefully administered.
- You’ll be monitored briefly and can go home the same day.
In most cases, sedation isn’t needed. Some patients experience immediate relief, while for others, it may take a week or two before the benefits are fully noticeable. Occasionally, you may have a short-lived increase in pain before the improvement begins.
How Long Do Hip Injections Last?
- A single cortisone hip injection often provides pain relief for three to four months.
- Hyaluronic acid injections may last for several months, particularly in early or moderate arthritis.
- I generally recommend waiting at least three months between injections, and I do not advise having more than four steroid injections in one year.
Do Hip Injections Hurt?
You may feel some discomfort during the procedure. Most people describe it as a deep, sharp scratch or a feeling of pressure similar to a blood test, though slightly deeper. I always aim to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Are Hip Injections Safe?
For the vast majority of patients, hip injections are a safe and effective treatment. Before your injection, I will review your medical history and any allergies to ensure the procedure is suitable for you.
Potential risks include:
- Initial soreness or discomfort around the injection site
- Temporary changes in skin colour or thinning of the skin
- Small risk of infection
- Very rare risk of tendon rupture
- Occasional lack of significant pain relief
I will discuss all possible side effects with you in advance and answer any questions you may have.
Recovery After Hip Injection Therapy
You will be able to go home on the same day as your procedure. I recommend arranging for someone to drive you to and from your appointment, as it’s best to rest the hip for the remainder of the day.
From the following day, you can gradually return to your normal daily activities. It is important to avoid intense exercise or heavy lifting for a few days while your hip settles.
Book Your Hip Injection Assessment
If you are considering hip injection therapy, including hyaluronic acid injections for arthritis, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. During your assessment, I will:
- Examine your hip
- Review any previous imaging or scans
- Discuss whether cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections are the best option
- Answer any questions about the procedure, recovery, and expected outcomes
To arrange your appointment, please contact me here or call [clinic phone number].
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Hip pain doesn’t have to limit your life. With the right treatment, you can regain comfort and mobility. I look forward to helping you feel your best.