The idea of a needle going into your knee joint can be scary. Patients rightly worry about pain, infection, and side effects.

The good news: Knee injections are routine, safe procedures when performed by a specialist in a sterile environment.

Here is a breakdown of the risks.

1. Infection Risk (The Big Fear)

This is the most serious but also the most rare risk.

Likelihood: Less than 1 in 10,000 cases.
Prevention: We use strict sterile techniques (cleaning the skin with iodine/alcohol, sterile gloves) just like in surgery.

2. Post-Injection Flare

Some patients experience increased pain for 24-48 hours after the shot.

Cause: The injected fluid stretches the joint, or the steroid crystals irritate the lining briefly.
Solution: Ice and rest. It usually settles quickly.

Cortisone is safe in moderation, but overuse causes issues:

Cartilage Softening: Frequent shots can weaken cartilage. (Rule of thumb: Max 3-4 per year).
Sugar Spike: Diabetics may see a temporary rise in blood sugar for a few days.

Steroids/PRP: Almost zero risk (PRP is your own body).
Gel (Hyaluronic Acid): Very rare allergies (some older brands were made from rooster combs, but modern ones are bio-engineered and safe).

Most patients are surprised by how quick and painless it is. We use a local anaesthetic spray or injection to numb the skin first.

The risk of living with chronic pain and inactivity is far higher than the risk of a sterile injection.

In safe hands, injections are a low-risk, high-reward option.