Gel shots, medically known as viscosupplementation, are a common treatment for knee pain due to osteoarthritis. This procedure involves injecting a substance into the knee joint to supplement its natural fluid. While generally considered safe, some individuals wonder if the treatment could worsen their condition.
How Gel Injections Work
Gel injections typically contain hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in healthy joint fluid. This natural component functions as a lubricant, enabling bones to glide smoothly, and as a shock absorber within the joint. In an osteoarthritic knee, the concentration and quality of this natural hyaluronic acid can decrease.
Injecting hyaluronic acid aims to restore these properties, reducing friction and improving joint movement. This process cushions the joint and may also reduce inflammation.
Reasons for Worsening Knee Pain
While viscosupplementation is generally well-tolerated, some individuals might experience an initial increase in knee pain or discomfort. Common, temporary side effects at the injection site include localized pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. These reactions are usually mild and resolve within a few days, often with ice application.
A more significant, though uncommon, reaction is a pseudo-septic reaction, involving increased knee pain and swelling. This condition mimics an infection but occurs without bacterial involvement, representing a sterile inflammatory response. Symptoms like severe pain, heat, swelling, and loss of function can develop within hours to a few days.
Although rare, a serious complication is bacterial infection, known as septic arthritis, where bacteria are introduced into the joint during the injection. Signs include severe, escalating joint pain, significant warmth, redness, and swelling of the entire joint, fever, or chills. Pus or drainage from the injection site also indicates infection.
Allergic reactions to injection components are possible, though uncommon. These reactions might manifest as hives, rash, or difficulty breathing. Sometimes, perceived worsening pain may not be due to the injection, but rather the natural progression of osteoarthritis or other underlying conditions the injection cannot fully resolve.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your doctor or seek immediate care if you experience severe, escalating knee pain that is considerably worse than expected or does not subside within a few days. Any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or significant warmth, redness, or swelling of the entire joint, warrant prompt medical evaluation.
If you are unable to bear weight on the affected leg, contact your healthcare provider. Any signs of a systemic allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or hives, require immediate medical attention.
Setting Realistic Treatment Expectations
The effectiveness of gel shots varies among individuals; not everyone experiences the same degree or duration of pain relief. Some research indicates that 30% to 40% of patients may not find a reduction in pain. These injections are a symptomatic treatment for osteoarthritis and do not reverse joint damage or act as a cure.
Pain relief may not be immediate, often taking 4 to 12 weeks to become noticeable. The duration of relief is temporary, commonly lasting up to six months, and injections can be safely repeated as needed. Integrating gel shots with other treatments, such as physical therapy, exercise, weight management, and pain medication, can contribute to optimal outcomes. These injections are often most effective for individuals with mild to moderate osteoarthritis and may not be suitable for those with more severe joint degeneration.