Clinician in blue gloves giving an injection into a patient’s shoulder

MSK (Musculoskeletal) injections

Targeted joint relief

Ultrasound-guided injections to relieve pain, stiffness and inflammation in your joints, tendons and soft tissues.

What are MSK injections?

An MSK injection delivers medication directly to the source of your pain. Most injections contain a corticosteroid, which reduces inflammation, combined with a local anaesthetic, which provides more immediate relief. By settling pain and swelling, an injection can make it easier to move, sleep and take part in physiotherapy or rehabilitation. It may also help your consultant confirm exactly where your pain is coming from.

Ultrasound-guided injections

With an ultrasound-guided injection, your consultant uses live ultrasound imaging to see the joint, tendon or bursa on screen and guide the needle precisely to the right place. This improves accuracy, helps avoid nearby nerves and blood vessels, and is particularly useful for deeper or smaller structures.

Ultrasound is safe and painless and does not involve any radiation.

Joint injections

Joint injections place medication directly into a painful or inflamed joint. They are commonly used for the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, ankle and the small joints of the hand and foot. Depending on the joint, your consultant may use ultrasound guidance or, where the joint is easily felt, anatomical landmarks.

Conditions treated

  • Osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis.
  • Bursitis, including shoulder and hip bursitis.
  • Tendon problems such as tennis elbow, golfer's elbow and rotator cuff pain.
  • Frozen shoulder.
  • Plantar fasciitis.
  • Joint pain and swelling following injury.

At a glance

Appointment time: Approximately 30 minutes. Anaesthetic: Local. Stay: Walk in, walk out. Rest: 24 to 48 hours for the treated area. Driving: We recommend arranging a lift home. Relief: Usually within a few days.

What to expect

Your consultant will review your symptoms, examine the area and explain the procedure. The skin is cleaned with antiseptic and, for ultrasound-guided injections, a small amount of gel is applied so the area can be seen on screen. The injection itself takes only a few minutes. A small dressing is applied and you can go home shortly afterwards. The local anaesthetic may give relief within minutes, although this wears off after a few hours. The corticosteroid usually begins to work within a few days.

Frequently asked questions

Why is ultrasound guidance used?

Ultrasound allows your consultant to see the needle and the target structure in real time. This helps ensure the medication is delivered exactly where it is needed and reduces the risk of injury to surrounding tissues.

Do MSK injections involve X-rays?

No. MSK injections at Surgical Institute Dublin are performed using ultrasound guidance or, for some joints, anatomical landmarks. X-ray guidance is not used for these injections, so there is no exposure to radiation.

Is the injection painful?

You may feel a brief sting or pressure as the injection is given. Local anaesthetic is used to keep you comfortable, and most patients find the procedure very tolerable.

How long does the effect last?

This varies between individuals and conditions. Some patients experience relief for several months, while for others the effect is shorter. Your consultant will advise whether a repeat injection is appropriate.

What should I do after my injection?

We recommend resting the treated area for 24 to 48 hours and avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting for around a week. You can usually return to work and light daily activities the same or the following day.

What are the risks of MSK injections?

MSK injections are safe and complications are uncommon. Risks include a temporary flare of pain for 24 to 48 hours, facial flushing, bruising, thinning or colour change of the skin at the injection site, and, rarely, infection. Steroids can temporarily raise blood sugar levels, which is particularly relevant for patients with diabetes. Your consultant will discuss all risks with you beforehand.

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  • Surgical Institute Dublin is a very professional organisation providing excellent care in a purpose built facility. I was particularly impressed with the ‘See and Treat‘ consultation process and the exceptional people I encountered there!

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  • Fantastic service from start to finish. Was able to book and be seen in short order, which is a rarity in Irish healthcare! Staff were very friendly and welcoming. Overall top quality experience.

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  • Would highly recommend the new Surgical Institute Dublin! I was very worried about a skin lesion on my head and was amazed at how quickly they got me in for an appointment. The facility is completely modern and state-of-the-art. One of the best facilities in Europe!

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  • This see-and-treat service is absolutely fantastic! I was very impressed with the whole experience. Dr Jennifer Boggs and Dr Serena Martin were both kind, lovely and highly professional. I had my full body mole check and a small procedure done in one visit. The service was incredibly efficient. Such a great time saver! All the staff were friendly, smiling and welcoming! Highly recommend!

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