Precise, Image-Guided Relief for Hip Arthritis and Joint Pain
Hip arthritis causes a gradual narrowing of the joint space, which can cause pain in the groin, outer hip, buttock, and sometimes down the thigh. Conservative physiotherapy manages many cases well, but when pain is limiting your sleep, your mobility, or your ability to rehabilitate effectively, a targeted injection directly into the hip joint can provide a meaningful window of relief.
Ultrasound guidance is not optional for hip injections. It is essential. The hip is a deep, ball-and-socket joint surrounded by muscle and soft tissue. Without real-time imaging, needle placement is largely a matter of estimation. Under ultrasound, the clinician visualises the needle tip throughout the procedure and confirms accurate placement before any medication is delivered. The result is a more reliable outcome and a substantially lower risk of inadvertent placement into surrounding structures.
Motherwell Physio offers ultrasound-guided hip injections as part of an integrated service that includes a thorough clinical assessment, injection, and a structured physiotherapy plan to maximise the benefit of the treatment window.
Who This Is For
This service is appropriate for adults with one of the following diagnoses or presentations:
- Hip osteoarthritis causing pain, stiffness, or functional limitation
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with secondary joint irritation
- Hip labral tear (cartilage overhanging the joint) causing secondary joint irritation
- Inflammatory arthritis affecting the hip joint (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis)
- Hip pain significantly limiting engagement with physiotherapy rehabilitation
- Patients awaiting hip replacement who require interim pain management
This injection is not suitable as a standalone treatment. It works best as part of a broader physiotherapy and exercise programme.
How the Procedure Works
Initial Assessment
Before any injection is performed, you will have a full clinical assessment. This covers your symptom history, relevant imaging (X-ray, MRI, or prior ultrasound findings), current medications, and any contraindications. If an injection is appropriate it will be carried out on the same day. The procedure, expected effects, and realistic outcomes will be discussed with you in full.
The Injection Itself
You will be positioned comfortably, typically lying on your back or side. The skin over the hip is cleaned with antiseptic. Using a high-resolution ultrasound probe, the clinician locates the hip joint and identifies the ideal needle entry point. A fine needle is guided under continuous ultrasound visualisation into the joint space. Depending on clinical indication, either a corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) or hyaluronic acid (to supplement joint fluid) is injected. The procedure typically takes 15 to 20 minutes in total, including preparation.
After the Injection
A mild local reaction with some increased discomfort for 24 to 48 hours is not uncommon. Most people notice a reduction in pain within one to two weeks. You should avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. Your physiotherapist will guide you on when to begin or resume your rehabilitation programme. The duration of benefit varies; corticosteroid injections typically provide relief for six to twelve weeks, while hyaluronic acid may offer longer-lasting effect in suitable candidates.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
Your first appointment will last approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the hip area. Bring any relevant imaging reports and a list of current medications. A referral is not required to self-refer. Eat and drink normally beforehand.
You should arrange transport home, as driving is not recommended immediately after the procedure.
Your Treatment Team
Shane Ryan, Director, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist
BSc Physiotherapy, PG Cert in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Clinical Specialist in Ultrasound guided injections, Independent Prescriber
CSP No. 098175
HCPC No, PH107655
BSc Physiotherapy, PG Cert in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Clinical Specialist in Ultrasound guided injections, Independent Prescriber
CSP No. 098175
HCPC No, PH107655
Conveniently Located in Motherwell
- Motherwell Physio, 406 Brandon Street, Motherwell, ML1 1XA
- Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm
- 01698 692086
- info@motherwellphysio.co.uk
- Free car park across the road
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. You can self-refer directly to Motherwell Physio without a GP letter. A clinical assessment will be carried out at your first appointment to confirm whether the injection is appropriate for your presentation.
This varies between individuals and depends on the medication used. Corticosteroid injections typically provide meaningful relief for six to twelve weeks but can be longer. Hyaluronic acid injections may offer longer-term benefits in some patients. Neither is a permanent solution; the aim is to create a window of pain relief in which physiotherapy and exercise become more achievable.
Most patients describe the procedure as uncomfortable rather than painful. Ultrasound guidance allows for a precise, controlled needle placement, which minimises unnecessary tissue trauma. A local anaesthetic is sometimes incorporated to reduce discomfort during the injection.
Repeated corticosteroid injections into the same joint carry a risk of cartilage damage over time. As a general guide, three injections into a single joint per year is considered the upper limit, though clinical judgement and your overall treatment plan will determine what is appropriate in your case.
You should not drive immediately after the procedure if possible. Arrange for someone to take you home on the day. Most patients are able to drive home normally but sometimes it is worth having someone present if possible.
Yes. The injection is most effective when combined with physiotherapy. The aim is to use the reduction in pain to engage more effectively with a rehabilitation programme that strengthens the muscles supporting the hip joint and improves overall function.
Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and are typically faster-acting. Hyaluronic acid (also known as viscosupplementation) supplements the natural joint fluid and may be more appropriate where inflammation is less pronounced. Your clinician will discuss which is more suitable based on your clinical picture and imaging findings.
Contraindications include active infection near the injection site, allergy to the medications used, certain blood-thinning medications, and uncontrolled diabetes, as corticosteroids can temporarily raise blood glucose. These will be reviewed thoroughly at your assessment. If injection is not suitable, alternative management options will be discussed.
Light activity can usually resume after 48 hours. Return to sport should be guided by your physiotherapist and will depend on your level of pain, the underlying diagnosis, and how your rehabilitation is progressing.
Yes. The hip joint is deep and not accessible by feeling alone. Landmark-guided injections performed without imaging carry a higher risk of missing the joint or inadvertently placing the needle in surrounding structures. Real-time ultrasound guidance substantially improves accuracy and reduces the risk of complications.
Ready to Book?
To arrange an assessment and ultrasound-guided hip injection, call us or book online at motherwellphysio.co.uk. 01698 692086