Viscosupplementation, or a knee gel injection, treats osteoarthritis by injecting a hyaluronic acid solution directly into the knee joint. This gel mimics the natural fluid, restoring lubrication and cushioning to reduce pain and improve mobility. Understanding the necessary post-treatment care ensures the best outcome and a safe recovery. This guidance addresses immediate restrictions, managing temporary discomfort, pain relief expectations, and recognizing when to seek medical attention.
Immediate Activity Restrictions (First 48 Hours)
The first 48 hours following the injection require careful attention to activity, allowing the newly introduced gel to settle properly within the joint space. Patients should avoid placing excessive strain on the treated knee immediately after the procedure. Allowing the hyaluronic acid to integrate without excessive pressure is a primary goal of this initial rest period.
You should strictly avoid high-impact activities such as running, jogging, or any vigorous exercise for at least two days. Similarly, refrain from heavy lifting or standing for prolonged periods, as these actions place undue stress on the knee joint. These short-term modifications help reduce the risk of irritation or inflammation. Light walking is generally permissible, but patients should avoid activities that involve twisting or sharp movements of the knee.
Managing Expected Temporary Side Effects
It is common to experience localized, temporary reactions at the injection site in the first few days. The most frequently reported side effects include mild pain, soreness, slight warmth, or minor swelling. This discomfort often resolves on its own as the body adjusts to the presence of the injected gel.
To manage these minor symptoms, apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the injection site for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, are recommended for managing temporary post-injection pain. Patients should avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen unless specifically approved by their healthcare provider. Some practitioners prefer to minimize anti-inflammatory effects immediately following the procedure.
Resuming Daily Life and Setting Pain Relief Expectations
After the initial 48-hour period of restriction, patients can generally transition back to their normal, light daily routine. Activities such as driving, desk work, and light household chores can usually be resumed without issue. Resuming more strenuous activities, however, should be done gradually and only if the knee feels comfortable.
A frequent misunderstanding is the expectation of immediate pain relief, but the therapeutic effects of viscosupplementation are typically not instant. Unlike corticosteroid injections, which offer rapid anti-inflammatory relief, hyaluronic acid works by improving the joint’s mechanical properties. Therefore, the pain relief is often gradual, with noticeable improvements usually beginning within a few weeks.
For many patients, the full benefits of the treatment, including improved joint mobility and reduced stiffness, start to become apparent around two to four weeks after the final injection. If the treatment involves a series of injections, the benefits build up over the course of the treatment period. Incorporating gentle range-of-motion exercises can help maintain joint flexibility as the gel begins to provide its cushioning and lubricating effect. Relief from a successful injection course commonly lasts around six months before a repeat injection may be considered.
Recognizing Signs of Complication
Knee gel injections are generally well-tolerated, but recognizing signs of a potential complication is important for patient safety. Patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any severe or unexpected symptoms, as these are distinct from the minor, temporary soreness expected after the procedure.
Urgent signs include severe pain that rapidly worsens and does not respond to standard pain medication, or significant swelling that spreads away from the injection site. A fever of 100.4°F or higher, along with increased warmth or drainage from the knee, suggests a possible infection requiring immediate medical evaluation. In rare instances, a severe reaction known as a pseudoseptic reaction can occur, which mimics an infection but requires different management.