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    Mr Sam NahasConsultant Knee Surgeon

    Knee Injections in Reading — Steroid, Hyaluronic Acid and PRP

    For some patients with knee arthritis or persistent knee pain, an injection can be used if appropriate to ease pain and support rehabilitation.

    At Circle Reading Hospital, Mr Sam Nahas offers corticosteroid (steroid) injections. Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can be used if appropriate.

    All injections are performed under sterile conditions, often with ultrasound guidance, ensuring accuracy and comfort.

    Medical diagram of the knee joint with a syringe performing an intra-articular injection

    How Injections Are Used

    Each option is discussed in detail during consultation, and treatment is tailored to the individual's diagnosis, activity level, and goals.

    Guidance differs between injection types, and Mr Nahas will be explicit about where the evidence is strong and where it is not. NICE recommends intra-articular corticosteroid for short-term relief of osteoarthritis symptoms, but does not recommend hyaluronic acid injections, and considers the evidence for PRP in knee osteoarthritis insufficient to recommend routinely. Both remain available privately, with informed consent, where they may suit your circumstances.

    Injections are often most effective when combined with targeted physiotherapy and strength conditioning.

    Types of Injections Offered

    Corticosteroid (Steroid) Injections

    Used to reduce inflammation and swelling in the joint, particularly during arthritis flare-ups or after injury.

    Provides short- to medium-term pain relief (typically several weeks to months)

    Useful for reducing acute inflammation before physiotherapy

    Evidence-based option for early- to moderate-stage arthritis

    Hyaluronic Acid (Viscosupplementation)

    Hyaluronic acid is a natural part of knee joint fluid, and in osteoarthritis its concentration and molecular weight tend to drop, making the fluid less viscous and less able to lubricate and cushion the joint.

    Hyaluronic acid injections aim to improve lubrication and can provide modest pain relief for some people, though the benefit varies and isn't guaranteed.

    Can be used if appropriate; the benefit varies between people

    Sometimes considered for mild to moderate arthritis when surgery is not yet needed, though NICE does not recommend it and response varies between patients

    Often performed under ultrasound guidance

    Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

    PRP uses your own blood, processed to concentrate the platelets. It can be used if appropriate.

    Made from your own blood

    Can be used if appropriate, for example in early arthritis or tendon irritation

    Some patients report symptom improvement, though the evidence remains mixed and NICE does not currently recommend it routinely

    Ultrasound-Guided Injections

    Most injection types can be performed under ultrasound guidance for optimal accuracy — particularly important for small joints, deep structures, or precision targeting.

    Ultrasound guidance also allows for real-time assessment of soft tissues and fluid distribution.

    What to Expect

    Consultation and assessment with Mr Sam Nahas

    Imaging arranged if not already completed

    Injections performed in clinic with Mr Nahas or via ultrasound guidance

    Mild discomfort may occur briefly during injection; downtime is minimal

    Most patients can return to normal activities the next day

    Follow-up arranged to assess benefit and next steps

    Why Choose Mr Sam Nahas

    Consultant knee-only surgeon with experience in non-operative and surgical care

    Clear about where the evidence for each injection is strong and where it is limited

    Access to ultrasound-guided injections for maximum accuracy

    Honest, transparent discussions about expected outcomes

    Integrated care model — injections, physiotherapy, and surgery available under one roof

    Self-Pay and Insurance

    Injections are available to both self-pay and insured patients.

    Self-pay patients can access appointments within a week with transparent pricing.

    Location

    Injections are performed at Circle Reading Hospital, with access to additional private imaging and injection facilities in Reading, Wokingham, Henley, and Berkshire.

    Insurance, referrals and access

    Recognised insurers: AXA Health, Bupa, Aviva, WPA, Vitality, Allianz, Healix, Cigna. Mr Nahas is fee-assured with all major UK health insurers.

    GP referral: not required for self-pay consultations. Insured patients need one — we can guide you through it.

    Waiting time: consultations are usually available within a week, with MRI arranged rapidly where indicated.

    Insured patients · Self-pay · Book a consultation

    Common questions

    How long does a steroid injection last?

    It provides short to medium-term pain relief, typically several weeks to months, and is useful for reducing acute inflammation before physiotherapy.

    How long does hyaluronic acid last?

    It can be used if appropriate, but the benefit varies between people and some notice little effect. Mr Nahas will discuss whether it is likely to help you.

    Will an injection fix the problem on its own?

    Injections are often most effective when combined with targeted physiotherapy and strength conditioning, rather than used alone.

    Clinical content reviewed by Mr Sam Nahas, Consultant Knee Surgeon (GMC 7138356). Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.