One appointment Private Joint Assessment, Scanning & Injection in London & Kent: Your Complete Guide to Fast Pain Relief
- Mustafa Alnaib
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
Waiting weeks or months for joint injections on the NHS can be frustrating, especially when pain is stopping you from working, sleeping, or enjoying life.
At ACTIVATE MSK Clinic, we specialise in fast-access, doctor-led musculoskeletal (MSK) care, offering private joint and tendon injections of cortisone, hyaluronic acid, Arthrosamid or PRP injections when appropriate, all under precise ultrasound guidance.
This complete guide explains:
Who might benefit from a same-day injection
How quickly pain relief happens
How ultrasound-guided injections are safer and more accurate
Exactly how to book and what to expect at your appointment
Why choosing a one-stop MSK clinic saves you time, stress, and money
✅ Who Can Benefit From a Same-Day Injection?
Many common joint and tendon problems respond well to image-guided injections, especially when treated early.
You may benefit if you have:
Knee osteoarthritis causing daily stiffness or pain [Learn more about knee injections here]
Shoulder pain from bursitis, impingement or rotator cuff tendinopathy [See shoulder treatments]
Hip or trochanteric bursitis making sleeping or walking difficult [ Hip pain from Bursitis: Diagnosis & Treatment ]
Foot and Ankle pain from sprains and osteoarthritis: Whether you had an injury or joint wear and tear, injections can help you go back to walking and running on your feet. [Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Foot and Ankle Pain]
Tendon pain in the elbow (tennis or golfer’s elbow), Achilles tendon, or foot plantar fasciitis [See PRP for tendinopathy]
This is not an exhaustive list, please contact us if you would like to know whether injections can help you specific condition
⏱️ How Quickly Do Cortisone Injections Work?
A cortisone (steroid) injection is one of the quickest ways to calm inflammation and acute pain. Most patients feel:
Reduced pain within 24 to 72 hours
Maximum benefit within 1–2 weeks
For some conditions, a hyaluronic acid injection or PRP may be a better choice for longer-term relief. See our guide to hyaluronic acid injections and PRP injections
Dr Alnaib will explain the best option for you during your visit.
📡 Why Choose Ultrasound-Guided Injections?
Ultrasound guidance means we can see exactly where the needle goes, improving accuracy and safety. It’s proven to deliver better results than “blind” injections done without imaging.
At ACTIVATE MSK Clinic, most of our injections are performed ultrasound-guided by Dr Alnaib
Read more about our private musculoskeletal ultrasound service.
📋 How to Book an Ultrasound-Guided Injection (Step by Step)
Booking with us is simple:
✅ Step 1: Book online without a GP referral or contact us for a quick phone triage.
✅ Step 3: At your visit, we’ll examine you, perform an ultrasound scan if needed, and discuss the best injection type for you.
✅ Step 4: If appropriate, your injection can be done on the same day, saving you multiple visits and more time in pain.
🏥 What to Expect at Your First Injection Appointment
Patients often ask:
How long does it take?👉 Allow about 30–45 minutes for assessment, scanning and the injection itself (Cortisone and HA).
PRP and Arthrosamid injections may take longer.
Does it hurt?👉 Most people say the injection feels like a quick sting; we use numbing medicine to minimise discomfort.
Can I drive home?👉 Generally yes, unless your doctor advises rest for certain joints.
What happens next?👉 You’ll get clear aftercare advice, digital physiotherapy programme and a plan for follow-up if needed.
For extra confidence, see our patient testimonials and FAQs.
🏆 Why Choose a One-Stop MSK Clinic for Private Joint Injections?
Choosing ACTIVATE means you don’t waste time bouncing between multiple appointments.
Here’s what makes us different:
Doctor-led care: Expert MSK doctor sees you, scans you, and treats you, all in one visit.
On-site ultrasound: No separate scan appointment needed.
Same-day injections: When appropriate, treatment starts immediately.
Transparent pricing: Check our current fees.
Plus, you can download our FREE patient eBook for more tips on MSK self-care.
⚡ NHS vs Private Clinic: What’s the Difference?
Aspect | NHS | ACTIVATE MSK Clinic |
Waiting Time | Weeks to months | Few days |
Referral Needed | Yes | Self-referral |
Ultrasound | Limited availability- long wait | Always included |
Injection Type | Often landmark (blind) injections | Ultrasound-guided |
Continuity | Different departments | One-stop expert care |
For self-pay or insurance help, read our helpful article here
📞 Ready for Fast Pain Relief?
Don’t wait in pain — book your private ultrasound-guided injection today and get back to moving, pain-free.
👉 Book Online Now👉 Or Contact Us for advice.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private cortisone injection cost?
Fees vary depending on the joint and complexity. See our up-to-date pricing page.
Will I need more than one injection?
Some patients get enough relief from a single injection. Others may need repeat treatments or combined therapies.
Do you treat tendons and soft tissue injuries too?
Absolutely, we offer PRP and other regenerative options for tendons, ligaments and plantar fascia conditions.
Where are your clinics located?
How soon can I exercise after my injection?
Most people can return to gentle daily activity the same day, but heavy exercise is usually avoided for 48 hours. This also depends on the type and location of injection (Cortisone, HA, PRP or Arthrosamid)
Do I need a GP referral to book?
No, you can self-refer and book directly on our website.
What conditions do you not treat with injections?
Injections are not suitable for certain conditions like infections, fractures, advanced joint degeneration or full tendon and ligament tear. We assess suitability in your first visit.
Can I bring someone with me?
Of course, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member for support.
🔑 Take Control of Your Joint Pain Today
👉 Book your appointment now: fast diagnosis, precise treatment, and expert care, all in one visit. You can also call us on +447369222132 or Whatsapp
Related Posts:
📺 For more, see our video library, patient stories or blog posts
About the Author: Dr. Mustafa Alnaib MBChB, MRCS, MSc, FEBOT is an orthopaedic surgeon, musculoskeletal doctor and Clinic Director at ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic in Kent & London
📍 ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic – Kent & London
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