Physiome offers hyaluronic acid injections as part of a wider physiotherapy plan. Injections are administered by a HCPC-registered physiotherapist who has completed the SOMM Theory and Practice of Injection Therapy module — the Master's-level, CSP-endorsed course regarded as the standard in UK musculoskeletal injection training.
We're based inside Ethos Sports Centre in South Kensington. All injections follow a physiotherapy assessment.
Our clinic regularly supports clients from Belgravia, Pimlico, Earl's Court, Notting Hill, Paddington, Marylebone, Soho, Fulham, Hammersmith, Shepherd's Bush, Mayfair, Covent Garden, and central London areas.
INJECTION THERAPY IN SOUTH KENSINGTON
WHEN IT ISN'T
You haven't yet tried appropriate rehabilitation
The diagnosis is unclear
You've already had repeated injections into the same site with diminishing returns
There's an active infection, or infection is suspected
The problem is one that responds better to loading than to anti-inflammatory treatment — many tendinopathies fall into this category
An injection would let you return to activity before the tissue is actually ready
We'll tell you if we don't think an injection is the right answer. That happens reasonably often.
WHEN AN INJECTION IS APPROPRIATE
Pain is limiting your ability to engage with rehabilitation
Conservative treatment has been tried and hasn't given sufficient relief
The diagnosis is clear and the target structure identifiable
There's a specific goal — starting a rehab programme, getting through a period, avoiding or delaying surgery
The likely benefit outweighs the risks in your particular case
CONDITIONS COMMONLY TREATED
Shoulder, ACJ (acromioclavicular joint)
Subacromial pain and bursitis
Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
Acromioclavicular joint pain
Glenohumeral joint osteoarthritis
Elbow, wrist and hand
Tennis and golfer's elbow
De Quervain's tenosynovitis
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Trigger finger
Thumb base osteoarthritis
Hip, knee and lower limb
Knee osteoarthritis
Trochanteric bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy
Hip osteoarthritis
Pes anserine bursitis
Foot and ankle
Plantar fasciitis
Ankle joint osteoarthritis
Morton's neuroma
Midfoot and forefoot joint pain
We treat peripheral joints and soft tissue sites. We do not perform spinal injections — epidurals, facet joint and nerve root injections require imaging guidance and are carried out by consultants and interventional radiologists. If that's what you need, we'll refer you.
Hyaluronic acid injection (one £245, two shots any body part £395)
Also called viscosupplementation. Hyaluronic acid is a component of normal joint fluid, and injecting it into an osteoarthritic joint aims to improve lubrication and reduce pain. Most commonly used in the knee.
The effect builds more gradually than corticosteroid but tends to last longer, often several months. It's frequently considered where corticosteroid isn't suitable, hasn't helped, or has already been used repeatedly. Hyaluronic acid is not a prescription medicine.
We'll discuss which is appropriate, or whether either is, after assessing you.
WHY PHYSIOME
Injection therapy delivered by a physiotherapist trained through the SOMM Theory and Practice of Injection Therapy module, the CSP-endorsed Master's-level course
Injections used within a rehabilitation plan, not as a standalone fix
Honest advice on whether an injection will actually help
Full explanation of risks, alternatives and realistic expectations
Physiotherapy and gym facilities on site for the rehabilitation that follows
Convenient for South Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge and Earl's Court
FAQs
Can a physiotherapist give injections?
Yes, with accredited post-registration training. Injection therapy is an established extended scope of physiotherapy practice, and the SOMM module is the recognised standard in the UK.
Do you need a prescription?
Corticosteroid is a prescription-only medicine, so it's administered in conjunction with a prescriber. Hyaluronic acid is not a prescription medicine. We'll explain the arrangement at your assessment.
Does it hurt?
There's a sharp scratch and often a sensation of pressure. Local anaesthetic is usually included, which numbs the area quickly. Most people describe it as less unpleasant than anticipated.
How quickly will it work?
Corticosteroid typically begins working within a few days, sometimes sooner. Hyaluronic acid builds more gradually, often over two to four weeks.
How long does it last?
Corticosteroid relief commonly lasts weeks to a few months. Hyaluronic acid often lasts longer, sometimes six months or more. Both vary considerably between individuals.
How many injections can I have?
There's no fixed number, but repeated corticosteroid into the same site is discouraged, generally no more than around three per site per year and often fewer. If you're needing repeated injections, the underlying problem needs addressing differently.
Will I still need physiotherapy afterwards?
Yes, and that's the point. The injection reduces pain so you can do the rehabilitation. Without it, symptoms usually return.
Can I have an injection in my back or neck?
Not here. Spinal injections require imaging guidance and are performed by consultants and interventional radiologists. We'll refer you if that's what's needed.
Can I exercise afterwards?
Not for the first couple of weeks in terms of heavy loading. Gentle movement is fine and encouraged. You'll get specific guidance.
I'm diabetic. Can I have a corticosteroid injection?
Usually yes, but corticosteroid can raise blood sugar for several days. Tell us at assessment, monitor your levels more closely afterwards, and we'll discuss whether hyaluronic acid is a better option.
Is it covered by private health insurance?
Sometimes, though cover for injections administered by a physiotherapist varies by insurer. Check before booking.