How long does an elbow injection take to work?

Corticosteroid injections typically begin to reduce pain within 3-5 days, with maximum benefit usually felt at 2-4 weeks. Some patients notice improvement within 24 hours. Hyaluronic acid injections work more gradually, with benefit building over 4-8 weeks.

How many injections will I need?

Many patients achieve significant relief from a single injection. If the first injection provides good but temporary relief, a second injection may be considered after 3-6 months. We generally recommend no more than three corticosteroid injections to the same site per year.

Is the injection painful?

Most patients experience mild discomfort during the injection, similar to a blood test. The ultrasound guidance allows us to use a fine needle and approach the target precisely, minimising discomfort. Local anaesthetic is included in the injection mixture to provide immediate relief.

Can I drive after the injection?

Most patients are able to drive after the injection. However, if you are concerned about discomfort or if your elbow feels temporarily weak, we recommend arranging alternative transport for your first injection.

How long will the relief last?

The duration of relief varies between patients and conditions. For tennis elbow, corticosteroid injections typically provide relief for 4-12 weeks. For joint-based conditions such as arthritis, relief may last 3-6 months or longer.

Do I need a referral for an elbow injection?

No referral is required. You can book directly online or by telephone. However, we recommend informing your GP that you have had the injection so it can be recorded in your medical notes.

HCPC Registered— All sonographers

CQC Compliant— Regulated clinic

Same-Day Available— Mon – Sat

Written Report— Within 24 hours

HCPC Registered

CQC Compliant

Same-Day Available

Written Report

Injections

Ultrasound-Guided Elbow Injection

Precise corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injection into the elbow joint or surrounding tendons, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging for maximum accuracy and effectiveness.

20-30 minutes

Same-day appointments

Marylebone, London W1

HCPC RegisteredCQC CompliantSame-Day AvailableWritten Report IncludedUltrasound-Guided Therapy

£275

Book Your Scan Call Us

4.9/5 from 600+ patients

HCPC-registered sonographers

Written report within 24 hours

Same-day appointments available

CQC-compliant clinic

Understanding Your Situation

When Elbow Pain Is Stopping You Living Your Life

Elbow pain -- whether from tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, or joint inflammation -- can make even simple daily tasks feel impossible. When rest, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory medication have not provided adequate relief, an ultrasound-guided injection can deliver targeted treatment precisely where it is needed. Our specialist team uses real-time imaging to guide every injection with pinpoint accuracy, maximising therapeutic benefit and minimising discomfort. Based at 29 Weymouth Street in Marylebone, Central London, we provide same-day appointments with written reports included.

Clinical Overview

What is an Ultrasound-Guided Elbow Injection?

An ultrasound-guided elbow injection uses real-time ultrasound imaging to direct a needle to the precise location of pain or inflammation within the elbow joint or surrounding tendons. This image-guided approach is significantly more accurate than blind injection techniques, ensuring the medication is delivered exactly where it will be most effective. Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and pain, while hyaluronic acid injections improve joint lubrication. Studies show ultrasound-guided injections have a 95% accuracy rate compared to 72% for landmark-guided injections.

Is This Scan Right for You?

Who Should Book This Scan?

Patients with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) not responding to conservative treatment

Those with medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow) causing persistent inner elbow pain

Patients with olecranon bursitis causing swelling at the back of the elbow

Those with elbow joint osteoarthritis causing stiffness and pain

Patients with cubital tunnel syndrome or ulnar nerve irritation

Anyone who has tried physiotherapy and anti-inflammatories without sufficient relief

Diagnostic Scope

What This Scan Can Detect

Lateral Epicondylitis

Tennis elbow -- degeneration of the common extensor tendon at the lateral epicondyle, the most common elbow condition.

Medial Epicondylitis

Golfer's elbow -- inflammation of the common flexor tendon at the medial epicondyle.

Olecranon Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursa at the tip of the elbow, causing visible swelling and discomfort.

Elbow Joint Effusion

Excess fluid within the elbow joint associated with arthritis or injury.

Biceps Tendon Pathology

Partial tears or tendinopathy of the distal biceps tendon at its insertion.

Triceps Tendinopathy

Degeneration or inflammation of the triceps tendon at the olecranon.

Your Appointment

What Happens During Your Scan

Consultation and assessment

Your clinician reviews your symptoms, examines the elbow, and confirms the injection is appropriate for your condition.

Ultrasound assessment

A pre-injection ultrasound scan identifies the precise location of pathology and plans the injection approach.

Skin preparation

The skin is cleaned with antiseptic solution and a sterile field is established.

Image-guided injection

Under continuous ultrasound visualisation, the needle is guided to the exact target location and the medication is delivered.

Post-injection care

You receive written aftercare instructions and advice on activity modification. A follow-up plan is discussed.

Before Your Appointment

How to Prepare for Your Scan

1
Wear loose clothing that allows easy access to your elbow
2
Continue taking any prescribed medications unless specifically advised otherwise
3
Avoid applying creams or lotions to the elbow area on the day of the injection
4
Arrange transport home if you feel this would be helpful -- most patients drive themselves
5
Plan to rest the elbow for 24-48 hours after the injection

After Your Scan

What to Expect After Your Elbow Injection

Most patients experience some soreness at the injection site for 24-48 hours, which is normal. Corticosteroid injections typically begin to provide pain relief within 3-5 days, with maximum benefit at 2-4 weeks. The duration of relief varies from weeks to several months depending on the underlying condition. Hyaluronic acid injections work more gradually, with benefit building over 4-8 weeks. A written procedure report is provided on the day, and we will discuss a follow-up plan tailored to your response.

Why Private?