FAQ's Understanding Hyaluronic Acid Injections

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Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural substance found in your joints that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber. With wear and tear or arthritis, your joint fluid becomes thinner – causing stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.

A hyaluronic acid injection helps restore lubrication, ease joint friction, and reduce pain, especially in knee, hip, or shoulder arthritis.

Steroid injections reduce inflammation and act quickly, while hyaluronic acid improves joint lubrication and offers longer-term relief. HA injections are ideal for those who:

• Prefer a non-steroid option
• Have had the maximum number of steroid injections
• Are waiting for joint replacement surgery

Pain relief can begin within 24–48 hours, but it may take up to 7–10 days for full results. Some people experience mild discomfort for a day or two before feeling improvement. 

Results vary based on the individual and the condition being treated. Some patients experience pain relief for several weeks, while others benefit for several months. If pain returns, we can discuss further treatment options. 

Most patients begin to feel the benefit within 1 to 4 weeks, with maximum improvement around 6 weeks after the injection.

Relief often lasts for 6 months or more, depending on the severity of your arthritis and activity levels.

Yes – if clinically appropriate, we can treat more than one joint during the same visit.

Yes. Hyaluronic acid injections can be safely repeated every 6–12 months. Some patients may benefit from a course of 2–3 injections over several weeks, depending on the product used.

No – you don’t need a referral from your GP.
You can book directly with Target Physio Injection Clinic for a full assessment and treatment, if appropriate.

Please wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being treated – for example, shorts for knee injections or a sleeveless top for shoulder treatment.

Yes – you’re very welcome to bring a friend or family member along for support during your visit.

You may feel a brief sharp scratch or pressure, but most people tolerate it well. We use expert techniques and fine needles to keep discomfort to a minimum.

Yes – we’ll ask you to wait for 15 minutes after your injection as a routine precaution. If it’s your first injection or if you’ve had a previous reaction, we may ask you to wait a little longer.

• Avoid heavy or repetitive activity for 24–48 hours
• Light walking or gentle movement is fine
• Apply an ice pack if there’s any soreness
• Contact us if you notice anything unusual or concerning

It’s best to avoid driving for a few hours, especially if the injection is in a weight-bearing joint (such as the knee or hip). If possible, arrange for someone to drive you home. 

This depends on your job and the injection site:

• Desk-based or light roles – usually fine to return the same or next day
• Manual or physical work – we may recommend 1–2 days of lighter duties or rest

We’ll advise based on your specific job and treatment plan.

Yes, you can continue your usual pain relief unless advised otherwise. Some people reduce their painkillers as the injection starts working – we’ll guide you.

Side effects are uncommon, but may include:

• Mild pain, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site
• A short-lived flare-up
• Rarely, infection or allergic reaction

We follow strict clinical hygiene and safety protocols to reduce any risks.

Yes – HA injections are generally safe if you’re taking blood thinners.
We’ll assess your medication and advise accordingly:

• Warfarin – an INR test may be required before your injection
• Rivaroxaban, Apixaban, Dabigatran – safe with caution
• Aspirin and Clopidogrel – usually no extra steps needed

Yes – unlike steroid injections, there’s no required waiting period between an HA injection and surgery. It’s a helpful way to manage pain and maintain mobility while you’re on a surgical waiting list.

You can receive safe, professional private hyaluronic acid injections at our clinic in Wingerworth, Chesterfield. We offer fast access to treatment for arthritis or joint pain — without NHS waiting lists.

You can book an appointment through our website contact us form or call us directly and leave a voice message. We offer flexible appointment times and can provide an initial consultation to assess your condition.