What to know about knee injections for osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a widespread condition that impacts millions of people globally. It leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the cartilage in the knee joint deteriorates, patients tend to look for various forms of treatment to alleviate their symptoms.
One increasingly popular option for treating osteoarthritis is knee injections. This blog will explore the different types of knee injections for osteoarthritis, their advantages, possible side effects, and what to anticipate during treatment.
Understanding osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint degenerative disease in which cartilage, which pads the ends of bones in the knee, breaks down. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones may rub against each other, leading to pain and inflammation. Common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:
- Pain during or after movement.
- Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after sitting for extended periods.
- Swelling and tenderness in the knee joint
- A grating sensation or a popping noise on knee movement.
Types of knee injections for osteoarthritis
There are several types of injections for osteoarthritis, each with its mechanisms and intended effects:
1. Corticosteroid injections
Corticosteroids are strong anti-inflammatory drugs that may alleviate swelling and pain in the knee joint. These injections are commonly used for short-term relief, especially during flare-ups. Depending on the individual, the effects can last several weeks or even months.
What to expect: The injection is usually administered in a doctor’s office. After cleaning the skin, a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort. The doctor will then inject the corticosteroid directly into the knee joint. Patients may feel immediate relief from pain due to the anesthetic, but the corticosteroid’s full effect typically takes a few days.
Potential side effects: While corticosteroid injections can be effective, repeated use (more than three to four times a year) may lead to side effects, such as joint damage, skin discoloration, and increased blood sugar levels.
2. Hyaluronic acid injections
HA, or hyaluronic acid, is an essential compound within the synovial fluid that aids in joint lubrication and movement. In patients with osteoarthritis, HA decreases, leading to increased friction and pain. HA injections, often called gel shots or viscosupplementation, aim to supplement this fluid and improve joint function.
What to expect: Patients typically receive a series of one to five injections administered weekly. Some may experience pain relief for several months following treatment.
Potential side effects: Side effects are mild and can be swelling, tenderness, or pain at the injection site. Not all patients experience significant relief, so discussing expectations with a healthcare provider is essential.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections
PRP therapy involves using the patient’s blood to extract platelets containing growth factors promoting healing. Although this treatment is considered experimental, it has shown promise in relieving symptoms of knee osteoarthritis and aiding recovery from soft tissue injuries. As one of the emerging knee injections for osteoarthritis, PRP therapy offers a potential alternative for those seeking relief without surgery.
What to expect: A tiny sample of blood is obtained and processed to concentrate the platelets. The PRP is administered into the knee joint. Some patients experience relief from pain within weeks, but others may take longer to feel the effects.
Potential side effects: PRP is generally well-tolerated, but there can be temporary pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
4. Stem cell injections
Stem cell treatment is a cutting-edge approach where stem cells are introduced into the knee joint to stimulate the body’s natural repair processes. Although still largely experimental, some studies suggest that stem cell injections help reduce inflammation and encourage the regeneration of damaged cartilage.
What to expect: The procedure involves extracting stem cells from the patient’s bone marrow and injecting them into the knee. Patients might see improvements over weeks to months.
Potential side effects: As with other injections, there are risks of pain, swelling, and infection at the injection site.
Benefits of therapeutic injections for knee osteoarthritis
The primary benefit of knee injections for osteoarthritis is pain relief, which can significantly enhance quality of life. These treatments often help patients stay more active in daily tasks and physical exercise, both of which are vital for joint health.
Many patients experience improved mobility after treatment, enabling them to take part in everyday tasks and physical activity that support joint function.
For some patients, these injections offer symptom relief that can defer the need for knee replacement surgery. By keeping the symptoms in control, patients can have a better quality of life and overall health.
Considerations and consultations
Before opting for therapeutic injections for knee osteoarthritis, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
They will perform a comprehensive evaluation, such as physical exams and imaging studies, to determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of the condition and the needs of individual patients.
It’s essential to have realistic expectations, as the effectiveness of injections can vary widely among patients. While some may experience significant relief, others might find limited benefits.
Knee injections can be valuable in managing osteoarthritis, relieving pain, and improving function.
With various options available, including corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, PRP, and stem cell injections, patients have several avenues to explore in their treatment journey.
Meet Dr Rik Kundra for your Osteoarthritis Care
If you are experiencing knee pain as a result of osteoarthritis, meeting with an orthopedic specialist, like Dr. Rik Kundra, can guide you through your choices and the best treatment to suit your requirements.
By knowing the various forms of knee injections for osteoarthritis and what to expect, you will be able to make informed decisions regarding your knee health and get closer to enjoying a more active and satisfying life.
Book your appointment with Dr. Rik Kundra today and start your journey to a pain-free life with expert osteoarthritis care.
Disclaimer
All content and media on this page are created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Meet Dr. Rik personally for appropriate medical diagnosis and advice.
