Knee Gel Injections for Arthritis: What Patients Should Know

Knee osteoarthritis can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, exercising, and standing from a chair uncomfortable.

When conservative treatments are no longer providing enough relief, some patients begin exploring injection options.

One option is viscosupplementation, commonly known as a knee gel injection.

What Are Knee Gel Injections?

Knee gel injections contain hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally found within joint fluid and contributes to lubrication inside the joint.

With osteoarthritis, changes to the cartilage and joint environment can contribute to pain and stiffness.

During viscosupplementation, hyaluronic acid is injected into the knee joint with the goal of improving symptoms in appropriately selected patients.

Are Gel Injections the Same as Cortisone?

No.

Cortisone and hyaluronic acid injections use different medications and work differently.

Corticosteroid injections are primarily intended to reduce inflammation.

Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint.

The most appropriate option depends on the patient's symptoms, severity of arthritis, previous treatments, health history, and treatment goals.

Who May Be a Candidate?

Viscosupplementation may be considered for certain patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

Before recommending an injection, your physician may review your symptoms, physical examination, X rays or other imaging, previous treatments, and activity goals.

Not everyone with knee pain has osteoarthritis, which is why confirming the diagnosis matters.

Meniscus injuries, tendon problems, ligament injuries, referred pain, and other conditions can also cause knee symptoms.

What Happens During the Injection?

The skin around the knee is cleaned before the medication is injected into the joint.

In some practices, imaging guidance may be used to assist with accurate placement.

The procedure itself is typically performed on an outpatient basis.

Patients receive instructions about activity after treatment and what symptoms to expect.

When Will I Feel Improvement?

Gel injections are not necessarily an immediate pain reliever.

Some patients may notice improvement gradually after treatment.

Response varies considerably from person to person, and not everyone experiences meaningful relief.

The number of injections also depends on the specific product and treatment protocol.

How Long Do Results Last?

There is no guaranteed duration.

Some patients who respond to treatment may experience relief for a period of time before symptoms gradually return.

Your physician can evaluate your response and determine whether future treatment is appropriate.

Can Knee Gel Injections Regrow Cartilage?

Viscosupplementation should not be thought of as a treatment that regrows lost cartilage.

Its purpose is symptom management for osteoarthritis.

Patients should be cautious of any treatment advertised as guaranteeing the restoration of an arthritic joint.

Knee Arthritis Care at Ospina Medical

Knee arthritis treatment should be individualized.

At Ospina Medical, we consider the severity of your arthritis, your symptoms, previous treatments, activity level, and personal goals before recommending an injection or another treatment.

If knee pain is limiting your ability to exercise, walk comfortably, or participate in the activities you enjoy, schedule a consultation with Ospina Medical to discuss your options.