Are you one of the millions of people struggling with chronic knee pain? Whether it’s from arthritis, injury or wear and tear, living with stiff, achy knees can be challenging.
If other methods to manage joint pain don’t seem to be doing the trick, you may have considered hyaluronic acid injections. These injections have been shown to provide relief for many individuals seeking alternatives to traditional pain management methods.
Read on to learn more about hyaluronic acid injections and if it’s right for you.
What are hyaluronic acid injections?
A hyaluronic acid injection, also known as gel shots or HA injections, is a clear, gel-like substance that can lubricate, moisten and trap water inside joints.
You may also recognize these injection treatments as viscosupplementation, rooster comb injections or chicken shots. Decades ago, scientists discovered that the red, fleshy flap atop a rooster’s head contains high levels of hyaluronic acid (hyaluronan). Today, modern production methods typically use a synthetic version of hyaluronic acid or extract it from bacteria cultures.
“Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the synovial fluid of human joints, where it helps lubricate and cushion them during movement,” said Elizabeth Batterton, MD, a sports medicine specialist with Banner – University Medicine. “But in individuals with joint conditions like osteoarthritis, the natural levels of hyaluronic acid may be reduced, leading to increased friction, pain and stiffness.”
When injected into a painful joint, hyaluronic acid mimics the function of the natural synovial fluid, helping to restore joint lubrication, reduce friction and act as an anti-inflammatory to improve pain and function.
Who can benefit?
Hyaluronic acid injections are currently used to treat people with knee arthritis when other conservative methods have been tried, such as physical therapy, bracing, weight loss, corticosteroid injections and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
While other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, may benefit from this treatment, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved it for use in osteoarthritis of the knee joint.
“While other joints affected by osteoarthritis can be injected, hyaluronic acid injections are considered off-label and may not be covered by insurance. However, they may provide benefit,” Dr. Batterton said. “These other joints include shoulder, hip and ankle.”
Hyaluronic injections can help delay the need for knee replacement surgery for about two or three years. They are also safer for people with diabetes because they don’t raise blood sugar, unlike other pain medications.
What to expect during the procedure
Getting a hyaluronic acid injection is a relatively simple outpatient procedure that can be performed in the office of health care professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists and sports medicine specialists.
Before the injection, your provider will clean the area and may use a local anesthetic to numb the skin around the joint. Then, using a thin needle, they carefully insert the hyaluronic acid into the joint space.
The shots may be done in a series of three to five injections over several weeks, but sometimes just one injection can work the magic. The entire process usually takes only a few minutes and you can typically resume back to normal activities afterward.
Are there risks or side effects?
While hyaluronic acid injections are generally safe, like any medical procedure they carry some risks. The most common side effects include temporary pain or swelling where the shot was given.
In rare cases, individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the hyaluronic acid. Before undergoing the procedure, talk to your health care provider about your history of allergies.
How long do they last?
Long-lasting results are one of the main reasons why some individuals choose hyaluronic acid injections.
“Hyaluronic acid injections are estimated to last six months, but some people may find that they can last longer,” Dr. Batterton said.
It may take several weeks after the last injection for you to experience complete relief. You may require repeat injections to maintain the benefits. Your health care provider can help determine the best treatment schedule based on your needs and response to the injections.
Takeaway
Chronic knee pain can impact your quality of life, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Take our free Joint Pain Test to learn more about your knee health.
Hyaluronic acid injections offer a natural, non-surgical approach to managing joint pain and improving mobility. If you’re considering this treatment, talk to a sports medicine or orthopedic doctor or a Banner Health specialist to see if it’s right for you.
With proper guidance and care, you can take proactive steps towards a more comfortable and active lifestyle.
