Gel vs. Steroid Injections for Pain Relief: A Comprehensive Comparison

If you're dealing with joint pain caused by arthritis or inflammation, you've likely come across two popular treatment options: gel injections and steroid injections. Both offer potential relief, but they differ in how they work, their duration of effectiveness, and potential side effects. Making the right choice depends on your specific condition, needs, and lifestyle. Let's break down the key factors to help you decide.

Relief Duration

Gel Injections

Gel injections, also known as hyaluronic acid injections, are commonly used to treat knee osteoarthritis. They help improve joint lubrication and cushioning, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.

Duration: Relief can last between 6 to 12 months, offering long-term benefits for those looking for sustained results.

Ideal Use: Best for individuals with mild to moderate arthritis for whom other treatments, such as painkillers, aren’t working well.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections (corticosteroids) are designed to reduce inflammation quickly, providing short-term relief. They are a go-to solution for acute flare-ups and intense pain.

Duration: Relief typically lasts for 3 to 6 months, depending on the severity of the inflammation and how your body responds.

Ideal Use: Effective for severe joint pain or inflammation, particularly in the knees, shoulders, or hips.

Verdict: If you're looking for longer-lasting relief, gel injections are the better option. For temporary but rapid relief, steroid injections are a reliable choice.

Side Effects

Gel Injections

Gel injections are generally well-tolerated, but side effects are still possible:

Mild Side Effects:

• Swelling or discomfort at the injection site
• Temporary stiffness

Rare Risks:

• Joint infection
• Minor allergic reactions to the injection material

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections are effective at reducing inflammation but come with higher potential risks:

Short-Term Side Effects:

• Skin thinning at the injection site
• Temporary flare-up of pain post-injection

Long-Term Risks (with repeated use):

• Joint damage
• Weakened tendons or ligaments
• Systemic side effects like elevated blood sugar levels (particularly concerning for diabetics)

Verdict: Gel injections typically have fewer side effects, making them a safer long-term choice. Steroid injections are riskier if used repeatedly but are effective for immediate inflammation control.

Cost

Gel Injections

Average Cost (UK): £200–£500 per injection, depending on the brand and treatment provider.

Insurance: Often not covered unless deemed medically necessary by your healthcare provider.

Steroid Injections

Average Cost (UK): £100–£300 per injection, making them a more affordable option for many patients.

Insurance: More likely to be covered as they are considered a standard treatment for joint inflammation.

Verdict: For patients prioritising affordability, steroid injections are the more cost-effective option. However, gel injections offer longer relief, which may balance their higher price over time.

Procedure

Gel Injections

Process:

1. A small amount of fluid is drained from the affected joint (if necessary).
2. The gel is injected directly into the joint space.
3. Typically takes 15–30 minutes.

Recovery:

Minimal downtime; you can usually resume normal activities within 24 hours.

Frequency:

Usually requires a series of 1–3 injections over several weeks.

Steroid Injections

Process:

1. The injection is delivered directly into the inflamed joint.
2. Administered in a single session lasting 10–20 minutes.

Recovery:

Immediate relief is common but may take 24–48 hours for full effect.

Frequency:

Limited to a few times per year to avoid long-term side effects.

Verdict: Both procedures are quick and minimally invasive. Gel injections might require multiple sessions, whereas steroid injections are typically one-time treatments.

Efficacy

Gel Injections

1. Studies show gel injections are particularly effective for:
2. Osteoarthritis relief in the knees.
3. Improving joint functionality over time.
4. While they don’t work for everyone, patients with mild to moderate arthritis often experience significant improvement in pain and movement.

Steroid Injections

1. Steroid injections are widely regarded for their:
2. Immediate relief from inflammation.
3. Success in easing pain from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and bursitis.
4. However, their effectiveness can decrease with repeated use, making them less suitable for chronic long-term management.

Verdict: Gel injections are effective for gradual, long-term benefits in managing arthritis pain, while steroid injections deliver rapid relief for acute inflammation.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The choice between gel and steroid injections depends on your pain, lifestyle, and priorities:

Choose Gel Injections if:

1. You’re looking for long-term arthritis pain relief with minimal side effects.
2. Managing joint functionality is a priority for you.
3. Short-term cost is less of a concern.

Choose Steroid Injections if:

1. You need quick relief from severe inflammation or pain.
2. You want a cost-effective solution for temporary relief.
3. You’re dealing with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout that require immediate treatment.

Find Relief with Expert Care at a Private Clinic

At RAD Clinics, we specialise in helping patients find personalised solutions for pain relief. Whether you're considering gel injections for sustained arthritis management or steroid injections for acute inflammation, our expert team will guide you every step of the way.