Gel knee injections, also known as viscosupplementation or hyaluronic acid injections, are a treatment option for individuals experiencing knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis causes the natural lubricating fluid in the knee joint to diminish, leading to pain and stiffness as cartilage wears down. Gel injections aim to supplement this lost lubrication, helping to cushion the joint and reduce discomfort. Many people considering this procedure are concerned about potential pain. This article explores what to expect regarding discomfort and how to manage it.
The Injection Experience
The process of receiving a gel knee injection involves steps to minimize discomfort. Before injection, a healthcare provider will clean and sterilize the site. A local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, is commonly used to numb the skin and surrounding area. This anesthetic might be applied topically or injected, often causing only a brief, mild sting or burning sensation.
Once the area is numb, a thin needle is guided into the knee joint. Imaging techniques like ultrasound or X-ray may be used to ensure precise needle placement, especially if the joint anatomy is complex or there’s excess fluid. Patients may feel pressure or fullness as the needle enters the joint space and the hyaluronic acid is slowly injected. This feeling is uncomfortable rather than severely painful, and it usually subsides quickly. If excess fluid is present, the healthcare provider might withdraw some before injecting the hyaluronic acid, which can also help alleviate pressure.
Post-Injection Sensations
After the gel injection, it is common to experience mild sensations at the injection site. These can include soreness, swelling, warmth, or slight bruising. These temporary side effects are a normal reaction as the body responds to the injected substance. The mild pain and swelling typically resolve within a few hours to a couple of days.
Some individuals might experience a temporary increase in pain and inflammation shortly after the injection, sometimes called an “injection flare” or “pseudo-septic reaction.” This reaction, which can mimic an infection with increased swelling and redness, is rare, occurring in about 1% of people, but should improve with rest and ice. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, severe swelling that worsens, increased warmth or redness, numbness or tingling, or a fever, as these could indicate a more serious issue like an infection.
Minimizing Discomfort
Strategies can help reduce or manage discomfort associated with gel knee injections. Before the procedure, openly communicating any anxiety or concerns about pain with your doctor is beneficial. During the injection, focusing on relaxation techniques can help, and you can ask your doctor if additional local anesthetic can be administered if you feel significant discomfort.
Following the injection, applying an ice pack to the treated knee for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be used as advised by your healthcare provider to manage any mild discomfort. Avoid strenuous activities like jogging, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing for at least 24 to 48 hours after the injection to allow the gel to settle and support healing. Light walking is permissible, but do not overuse the knee during this initial recovery period.