Ultrasound Guided Injection Service in Bristol

We offer ultrasound guided injections, including steroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections (Durolane), Ostenil and hydrodilatation. Currently, these are performed by Tony Gill. Tony is the only Bristol Physiotherapist qualified as an ultrasonographer, prescriber and injection therapist combined. Please contact us to inquire about pricing.

What is Guided Injection?

Bristol Physio are able to offer an ultrasound guided injection service. These include Steroid and Hydrodilatation injections. All injections are done using ultrasound as guidance (rather than anatomy guided) this ensures the target area is identified and treated. Injections are mainly used for shoulder complaints, but are available for all joints.

You will usually have an initial assessment with Tony or another team member to assess your suitability for an ultrasound guided injection.  An ultrasound guided injection is usually a last resort treatment, either to provide a window of opportunity for strengthening and mobility, or to provide an interim before surgery. Occasionally the guided injection is the treatment modality that solves the issue and keeps the joint pain free.

The Ultrasound Guided Injections are usually the correct treatment for shoulder, hip, knee, wrist and foot complaints. The shoulder in particular has been shown to respond well to ultrasound guided steroid injection and hydrodilatation. The injury can vary from Frozen shoulder/adhesive capsulitis to more acute ACJ strains or impingement.

Types of Injection

Hydrodilatation

Hydrodilatation is a mixture of sterile saline solution, local anaesthetic and steroid and is injected into the shoulder to increase joint movement and to reduce pain - it is most often administered to treat ‘frozen’ shoulders. You will usually feel immediate relief in pain in the shoulder and have more movement in a short period afterwards.

Steroid Injection

We offer steroid injections for joint and tendon problems with a focus on pain reduction and increased mobility. The inflammation within the joint space, tendon or bursa takes 2 – 10 days to reduce after the direct injection. Once the pain has been alleviated, retraining and normalising movement & power is key to long term success.

Hyaluronic Acid

We offer Durolane & Ostenil injections - these medicated injections are most appropriate for conditions such as mild osteoarthritis or tendinopathies. We commonly use these injections for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. The injection is chemically similar to natural joint lubricant and replicates some of the shock absorbing properties.

Steroid Injections

Cortico-steroids are the body’s natural anti-inflammatory products. We offer steroid injections for joint and tendon problems with a focus on pain reduction and increased mobility. The body naturally produces many steroids, such as Cortisone, to reduce inflammation and promote healing. The injection gives a targeted dose of steroid into the affected area. Subsequently, the inflammation within the joint space, tendon or bursa takes 2 – 10 days to reduce after the direct injection. A single injection may be sufficient to alleviate your pain, however some chronic conditions can require multiple injections. Steroid injections are always used in conjunction with exercise rehabilitation.

Once the pain has been alleviated, retraining and normalising movement & power is key to long term success. The steroid allows a window of opportunity for rehabilitation and exercises. There is also the added benefit of pain relief which can help with mobility, sleep quality, mental health and ability to do the exercises.

Click here for published research on steroid injections. Steroids can slightly compromise the immune system, so it is important to discuss with us and your GP before opting for this type of injection. Alternatives are available and we will be able to advise you.     

Why choose Bristol Physio for your
Guided Injection services?

Convenient appointment times

Wide variety of appointment times throughout the week. Late evenings and Saturday appointments are also available.

Bespoke physiotherapy services

Currently the only clinic in Bristol offering combined treatment models including, shockwave therapy, ultrasound assessment and guided injections as well as traditional physiotherapy services.

Sports injury specialists

We are expert sports injury specialists and a leader in sports injury physio in Bristol.

Expert Guided Injection Services in Bristol

We provide comprehensive physiotherapy services to help you recover and improve your well-being.