Living with knee pain can be exhausting. Everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for long periods may feel overwhelming. For many people, especially those dealing with arthritis or long-term joint problems, injections can be a way to find relief without jumping straight to surgery. Two of the most common options are PRP injections and viscosupplementation.
What Is Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation is often called a “gel injection” or “knee arthritis injection.” It involves injecting a substance called hyaluronic acid into the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid is something your body naturally makes. It’s found in joint fluid and helps keep movement smooth, cushioned, and less painful.
When you have arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, the natural hyaluronic acid in your joint can break down. The result? Stiffness, soreness, and a grinding feeling when you move. Viscosupplementation adds more of this gel-like fluid back into the joint. Think of it like adding oil to a squeaky hinge. It doesn’t fix the hinge, but it can help it move more easily.
People usually try viscosupplementation when other treatments, like pain medicine, exercise, or physical therapy, haven’t worked well enough. Relief can last for a few months, though results vary from person to person.
What Are PRP Injections?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It’s made from your own blood. Here’s how it works: a small amount of your blood is drawn, then spun in a machine that separates out the platelets. Platelets are tiny cells that help your body heal. They contain growth factors—natural substances that repair tissue and reduce inflammation.
Once concentrated, the PRP is injected into the knee joint. The idea is that by delivering a higher dose of your body’s own healing cells directly to the injured or arthritic area, it may help reduce pain and support tissue repair.
PRP injections are considered a more natural approach since they use your own blood rather than a manufactured gel. Some research suggests PRP may help not only with pain but also with slowing down the breakdown of cartilage in the joint.
PRP vs. Viscosupplementation for Knee Pain
So what’s the difference when looking at PRP vs. viscosupplementation for knee pain? Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Viscosupplementation adds cushioning and lubrication with hyaluronic acid.
- PRP injections deliver growth factors from your own blood to support healing and reduce inflammation.
Both are knee arthritis injections, but they work in different ways. Viscosupplementation is more like adding padding, while PRP is more like jump-starting your body’s repair process.
PRP vs. Hyaluronic Acid: Which One Works Better?
This is one of the most common questions people have. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t the same for everyone.
- Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation): Often used for moderate arthritis when there is still some cartilage left in the joint. It may provide a smoother, less painful movement for a few months at a time.
- PRP injections: May work better for younger patients, those with earlier arthritis, or people who want to try a more regenerative treatment. Some studies suggest PRP can provide longer-lasting relief compared to hyaluronic acid, but research is still ongoing.
The choice often depends on factors like age, overall health, severity of arthritis, and personal preference.
When Are These Injections Used?
Doctors may recommend either treatment when:
- Knee pain is interfering with daily activities.
- Physical therapy, over-the-counter medicines, or simple lifestyle changes haven’t helped enough.
- Surgery isn’t the right option yet, or you’d like to delay surgery as long as possible.
Neither option is a permanent cure for arthritis, but both can provide a “bridge” of relief that helps people stay active and comfortable.
Are There Risks?
Like any medical procedure, injections carry some risks, though they are generally considered safe. Common side effects may include temporary soreness, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site. Serious complications are rare.
Since PRP uses your own blood, allergic reactions are very unlikely. With hyaluronic acid injections, mild allergic responses can occur, but they are uncommon.
It’s important to talk with a qualified provider about whether you’re a good candidate and what side effects you might expect.
Things to Consider When Deciding
If you’re weighing PRP vs. viscosupplementation for knee pain, here are some practical things to think about:
- Cost: PRP is often not covered by insurance, while viscosupplementation sometimes is.
- Number of treatments: Viscosupplementation may require a series of injections; PRP is usually one to three injections.
- Goals: Do you want more cushioning and lubrication (viscosupplementation) or a regenerative approach that may encourage healing (PRP)?
- Stage of arthritis: The severity of your condition often plays a big role in which option makes the most sense.
Who Can Help You Decide
A decision like this shouldn’t be made lightly, or on your own. An orthopedic surgeon is often the best person to help you decide between PRP injections and viscosupplementation for knee pain. Here’s why:
They Can Confirm What’s Causing the Pain
Knee pain isn’t always from arthritis alone. It could be from cartilage wear, ligament issues, or something else. An orthopedic surgeon can do imaging (like X-rays or MRI) and an exam to confirm whether you’re a good candidate for injections in the first place.
They Understand Both Options
Most orthopedic surgeons are familiar with both knee arthritis injections: PRP and hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation). They can explain how each works, what results are realistic, and how long relief may last in your specific case.
They’ll Match Treatment to Your Stage of Arthritis
Some people do better with viscosupplementation, especially if they still have some cushioning cartilage left. Others may see more benefit from PRP, particularly if they’re earlier in the arthritis process. An orthopedic surgeon can look at your joint condition and match the treatment to your needs.
They Can Weigh Other Options, Too
Injections aren’t the only path forward. An orthopedic surgeon can walk you through physical therapy, lifestyle changes, medications, or even when surgery might make sense. That way, you’re not just choosing between PRP vs hyaluronic acid—you’re seeing the full picture.
They Personalize the Recommendation
Factors like age, activity level, cost (PRP is often out of pocket), and recovery goals all play a role. A surgeon will help weigh those details so you can feel confident about your choice.
If you’re thinking about these treatments, starting with an orthopedic surgeon is a smart step. They’ll give you an honest assessment of whether PRP injections or viscosupplementation might help, or if another approach is better suited to your knee pain.
Exploring Your Options With an Expert
Knee pain doesn’t have to mean giving up the activities you enjoy. For many people, injections can provide relief and help them stay active. Viscosupplementation works by adding lubrication with hyaluronic acid, while PRP injections use your own healing cells to reduce pain and support repair.
When comparing PRP vs. hyaluronic acid, the right choice depends on your health, arthritis stage, and personal goals. Neither is a one-size-fits-all solution, but both offer possibilities for easing discomfort and improving quality of life without immediate surgery.
If knee arthritis injections sound like something worth exploring, the next step is to talk with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your situation and guide you toward the best fit. Sometimes relief is just one well-chosen step away.
Are you exploring treatment options for knee pain and wondering whether PRP injections or viscosupplementation might be right for you? Call (813) 253-2406 or click here to schedule a consultation. We will review your condition, discuss the differences between these knee arthritis injections, and help determine which option may be the best fit for your needs. Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine is located in Tampa, FL, and proudly serves patients from the surrounding communities.
