Knee gel injections, also known as viscosupplementation, involve introducing a hyaluronic acid-based substance into the knee joint. This procedure aims to alleviate pain and improve function for individuals experiencing osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component of healthy joint fluid, where it acts as a lubricant and shock absorber. When osteoarthritis causes the natural joint fluid to thin and cartilage to wear down, these injections can help restore some of the cushioning and lubrication, reducing friction and discomfort between bones. This treatment is often considered when other conservative approaches, such as pain relievers or physical therapy, have not provided sufficient relief.
The First Few Days After Injection
Following a knee gel injection, it is common to experience sensations at the injection site. Patients might notice mild pain, tenderness, stiffness, swelling, or warmth around the knee. These sensations are usually temporary and indicate the body’s response to the injection.
To manage these initial effects, healthcare providers generally recommend resting the knee for the first 24 to 48 hours. Applying ice packs to the injection site can help reduce swelling and discomfort. It is also advisable to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing during this brief recovery period to allow the injected substance to settle properly within the joint.
When to Expect Improvement and How Long It Lasts
The benefits of knee gel injections are not immediate, as the hyaluronic acid needs time to integrate with the joint fluid and begin its lubricating action. Patients often start to notice an improvement in pain and mobility several weeks after the injection, with full effects often appearing in 4 to 6 weeks. This gradual onset differs from corticosteroid injections, which tend to provide quicker relief.
Pain relief from viscosupplementation varies, commonly lasting for several months. Many patients experience reduced pain and improved function for 3 to 6 months, with some benefits extending up to a year or more. It is important to understand that these injections are a management strategy for osteoarthritis, not a permanent cure, and the effects will eventually diminish.
Understanding Potential Side Effects
While knee gel injections are considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects beyond the immediate post-injection soreness. Common reactions include increased knee pain, joint swelling, warmth, redness, or itching at the injection site. These are often mild and resolve within a few days.
Rarely, more serious complications can occur. These include allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat. Infection within the joint is another rare but serious risk, which could present as severe pain, redness, warmth, or fever. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any signs of a severe allergic reaction or infection following the injection.
Optimizing Your Recovery and Results
To maximize benefits and ensure a smooth recovery, follow your doctor’s post-injection instructions. This often includes reduced activity to allow the hyaluronic acid to disperse within the joint. Engaging in physical therapy or specific exercises, as recommended, can enhance joint function and strengthen surrounding muscles.
Maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial, as excess weight stresses the knee joint, potentially diminishing injection effectiveness. Avoiding activities with excessive, repetitive knee strain, like high-impact sports, can preserve the joint and prolong relief. These injections are part of a comprehensive osteoarthritis management plan, and lifestyle modifications contribute to joint health and sustained results.