For decades, steroid and hyaluronic acid injections for joint pain were performed “blind”—meaning the doctor relied solely on anatomical landmarks (feeling the bones) to guide the needle. Today, modern medicine demands precision. Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist at London Sports & Rheumatology Imaging (LSRI), explains why ultrasound-guided injections are now considered the unassailable gold standard for managing musculoskeletal pain.
The Problem with “Blind” Injections
Clinical studies have consistently demonstrated that blind intra-articular (joint) injections miss the intended joint space up to 30% of the time. In complex joints like the hip or small joints of the hand, the inaccuracy rate is even higher. If the medication is deposited into the surrounding fat pad or muscle rather than the joint capsule, the patient completely misses out on the therapeutic benefits and may experience unnecessary tissue damage.
The Ultrasound Advantage with Dr Prashant Sankaye
As a specialist in musculoskeletal imaging, Dr Prashant Sankaye utilises high-frequency ultrasound dynamically. This provides several crucial advantages:
- Millimetre Precision: The needle tip is visualised in real-time on the monitor. Dr Sankaye can navigate the needle past critical blood vessels and nerves directly into the inflamed bursa, joint space, or tendon sheath.
- Diagnostic Confirmation: Before injecting, the ultrasound scan confirms the diagnosis. Is there excess fluid? Is the tendon actively inflamed? This ensures the right treatment is selected.
- Aspiration: If a joint is heavily swollen (effusion), Dr Sankaye can safely drain (aspirate) the excess fluid under ultrasound before injecting the medication, immediately reducing pressure and pain.
Available Treatments at LSRI
With precise delivery guaranteed, we offer a range of targeted therapies at LSRI:
- Steroids: For rapid reduction of severe acute inflammation.
- Hyaluronic Acid (e.g., Arthrosamid or Durolane): For long-term lubrication and mechanical support in osteoarthritis.
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): For promoting natural tendon and tissue healing.
Experience Elite Care
Don’t leave your joint pain to chance. Ensuring your injection is performed under ultrasound guidance by an expert like Dr Prashant Sankaye is the most important step toward guaranteed pain relief. Contact LSRI today.
About the Author: Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant Musculoskeletal specialist and Radiologist, MBBS, MS, FCPS, MRCS, CCBST, FRCR, PGCE(Med), FHEA, PGDip Sports and Exercise Medicine
Dr Prashant Sankaye is a highly respected Consultant MSK Radiologist and the Clinical Director of London Sports & Rheumatology Imaging (LSRI). With over a decade of sub-specialty experience, he is a recognized expert in advanced diagnostic imaging (Ultrasound & 3T MRI) and precision ultrasound-guided therapeutic injections. His authoritative approach ensures patients avoid surgery where possible and receive the highest standard of orthopaedic, rheumatological, and sports medicine care.
