“Gel shots” is a common term for viscosupplementation, a medical treatment used to manage joint discomfort, primarily caused by osteoarthritis. This procedure involves injecting a synthetic, gel-like substance—hyaluronic acid (HA)—directly into an affected joint space. HA is a molecule naturally present in healthy joints. The goal is to alleviate pain and improve mechanical function, typically for individuals who have not found sufficient relief from more conservative therapies.
Composition and Function of Viscosupplements
The primary component of these joint injections is hyaluronic acid (HA), a long-chain molecule found in the body’s connective tissues and joint fluid. In a healthy joint, HA is dissolved within the synovial fluid, giving the fluid its thick and elastic (viscoelastic) properties. This quality allows the joint fluid to act as both a lubricant for smooth motion and a shock absorber for impact.
When osteoarthritis progresses, the concentration and size of natural HA molecules in the synovial fluid decrease significantly. This degradation causes the fluid to become thinner and less elastic, reducing its ability to protect the joint surfaces. The result is increased friction between the bones and a loss of cushioning, which contributes to the pain and stiffness of arthritis.
Viscosupplements contain HA preparations formulated to restore the fluid’s natural properties. Reintroducing this gel-like substance supplements the degraded natural fluid. This intervention replaces lost viscoelasticity, helping re-establish an optimal environment for joint movement.
How Gel Shots Restore Joint Mechanics
The injected HA immediately enhances the joint fluid’s ability to resist compression and shear forces. This mechanical restoration reduces friction between the articulating bone ends, minimizing pain signals from the joint capsule. The augmented fluid acts as a thicker cushion, allowing the joint to absorb impact more effectively during activities like walking or standing.
Beyond this passive mechanical effect, the injected HA also has biological influences. It demonstrates localized anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory molecules, which helps decrease swelling. Furthermore, the exogenous HA stimulates the joint’s lining cells (synoviocytes) to increase their production of endogenous HA. This encourages the joint to synthesize its own higher-quality fluid, extending the therapeutic benefit and aiming to break the cycle of degradation associated with osteoarthritis.
The Injection Procedure and Patient Criteria
Viscosupplementation is reserved for individuals with mild to moderate osteoarthritis who have not responded adequately to conservative measures. These measures typically include physical therapy and pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The treatment is considered a non-surgical option for patients seeking to delay or avoid more invasive procedures like joint replacement surgery.
The procedure is performed in a clinical setting, involving the direct injection of HA into the joint space. To ensure precise delivery, the clinician often uses imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. Before injection, any excess fluid or swelling in the joint may be removed through aspiration.
Depending on the specific product, the full course of treatment may involve a single injection or a series of three to five injections administered over several weeks. Patients are advised to limit strenuous activities for up to 48 hours following the injection. This period of reduced activity helps the injected gel settle and integrate within the joint fluid.
Expected Outcomes and Safety Profile
The primary goal is substantial pain relief and improved joint function, though relief may take several weeks following the injection series. For positive responders, pain relief typically lasts for several months, often up to six months or longer. If the treatment remains effective when pain returns, the injection series can be repeated.
The safety profile is favorable, with most side effects being mild and transient. The most common local reactions include temporary pain, warmth, or mild swelling at the injection site immediately following the procedure. These symptoms typically resolve quickly and can be managed with the application of ice.
Rarely, more significant complications can occur, such as a localized inflammatory reaction causing increased joint swelling and pain. As with any joint injection, there is a small risk of infection or bleeding. Clinicians minimize these risks by taking precautions, including the use of aseptic techniques.