What Happens After a Durolane Injection? Recovery, Activity and Expectations

Having a Durolane injection is only one part of managing joint mobility and delaying cartilage and tendon degeneration. What you do afterwards can also help you return to your normal routine at a comfortable pace.

Durolane is a hyaluronic acid injection used to help manage wear and tear and stiffness associated with certain joint conditions. After treatment, the focus shifts to allowing the joint to settle, managing activity and gradually returning to normal movement.

1. What Should You Do in the First 48 Hours?

The first couple of days are mainly about giving the treated joint time to settle.

You should generally:

• Keep activity light and comfortable
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• Avoid long walks or prolonged weight-bearing activity
• Avoid high-impact activities such as running or tennis
• Follow the specific advice provided by your clinician

Durolane guidance recommends avoiding strenuous or prolonged weight-bearing activity for the first 48 hours after the injection.

This does not necessarily mean complete rest. Gentle everyday movement may be appropriate if it feels comfortable.

2. Can You Walk After a Durolane Injection?

Gentle walking may be possible after treatment, but your activity should remain comfortable during the initial recovery period.

For the first couple of days:

• Keep walks short
• Avoid long-distance walking
• Take care on stairs if the joint feels uncomfortable
• Avoid steep hills or demanding terrain
• Don't use a long walk to test whether the injection has worked

If your joint becomes noticeably more painful or swollen, reduce your activity and allow it more time to settle.

3. When Can You Exercise Again?

Returning to exercise should be gradual rather than immediate.

Once the initial 48-hour period has passed:

• Start with comfortable everyday movement.
• Introduce lighter exercise when symptoms allow.
• Gradually increase duration or intensity.
• Return to higher-impact activities when your joint is comfortable and your clinician advises that it is appropriate.

Your timeline may vary depending on the joint treated, your symptoms and the type of exercise you normally do.

4. Is Some Discomfort Normal?

Some temporary discomfort can occur following an injection.

You may notice:

• Mild pain
• Tenderness around the injection area
• Some swelling
• Stiffness

These reactions can occur after Durolane treatment and are generally temporary.

If you are concerned about your symptoms, follow the advice provided by your treating clinician rather than relying solely on general information.

5. When Will You Notice a Difference?

There is no single timeline that applies to everyone.

Some people may notice changes sooner than others. Rather than expecting an immediate improvement, look for gradual changes in how your joint feels and functions. 

Your response should be considered alongside your overall symptoms and activity levels.

6. Don't Rush Back to Your Previous Routine

Feeling better does not necessarily mean that your joint is ready for your full level of activity immediately.

If you enjoy running, gym training, hiking or sport, build back progressively.

A simple approach is:

Light activity → Normal daily movement → Moderate exercise → Higher-impact activity

If your symptoms increase significantly after progressing, reduce the intensity and give yourself more time before trying again.

7. When Should You Contact Your Clinician?

Most post-injection reactions are temporary, but persistent or concerning symptoms should not be ignored.

Speak with your clinician if:

• Pain or swelling is getting worse rather than settling
• Symptoms continue beyond the expected recovery period
• You develop symptoms that concern you
• You are unsure when to resume a particular activity

Your clinician can assess your symptoms and advise you on the next appropriate step.

8. What About Physiotherapy After the Injection?

The injection does not necessarily mean that your rehabilitation stops.

Once the initial recovery period has passed, appropriate movement and rehabilitation may help you work towards better function and confidence.

Depending on your individual needs, this may include:

• Strengthening exercises
• Mobility work
• Activity modification
• Gradual return to sport
• Advice on managing everyday activities

A physiotherapist can help you progress these activities according to your symptoms, movement and goals.

The Takeaway

The days following a Durolane injection are about finding the right balance between rest and movement.

Keep activity light initially, avoid strenuous exercise during the first 48 hours and gradually build back towards your normal routine as your symptoms allow.

If you're unsure about returning to walking, exercise or sport after your injection, speak with your treating clinician or physiotherapist for advice specific to your recovery.

Xcel Health provides physiotherapy and Durolane Injection Therapy, helping patients work towards comfortable, confident movement as part of their wider rehabilitation.

What are the other services we offer?

Steroid Injection therapy

PRP injection therapy

Arthrosamid Injection