Hyaluronic acid injections—also known as viscosupplementation or gel shots—are a popular treatment option for adults with knee osteoarthritis. One reason why this therapy is so widely used is its low risk of serious effects. Typically, side effects occur around the injection site and include very mild and temporary:
- Pain
- Warmth
- Bruising
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling
Placing an ice pack on your knee to numb pain and ease swelling is usually helpful in relieving discomfort from a hyaluronic acid injection. To ensure a proper recovery, it’s also important to carefully adhere to your doctor’s post-treatment guidelines. Patients are generally advised to avoid high-impact activities such as jogging, squatting, and lifting heavy objects for at least 48 hours after injection.
Rarely, hyaluronic acid injections may lead to bleeding, infection, or an allergy-like reaction. Promptly contact your doctor if your knee becomes painful, red, hot, and notably swollen.
How Do Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the knee’s cushioning joint cartilage wears away, leading to pain and stiffness that can make it difficult to stay active. It also reduces the concentration of hyaluronic acid within the knee—a naturally occurring substance in the joint’s synovial fluid that allows for smooth, comfortable movement.
Hyaluronic acid injections help reduce osteoarthritis symptoms by increasing the amount of this lubricating fluid in the knee joint. Depending on the details of each patient’s case, one to five shots may be administered over the course of several weeks, and pain relief may be experienced eight to 12 weeks after beginning treatment.
When Are Hyaluronic Acid Injections Recommended?
Hyaluronic acid injection therapy may be a viable treatment option if your knee osteoarthritis symptoms do not respond well to commonly used approaches like:
- Physical therapy
- Low-impact exercise
- Pain-relieving medications
- Anti-inflammatory injections
- Healthy lifestyle choices such as losing excess weight and quitting smoking
In some cases, injection therapies such as hyaluronic acid injections may help patients delay or avoid the need for knee surgery down the road.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group
Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group offers hyaluronic acid injections and other progressive, non-surgical therapies to patients with knee osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, our board-certified specialists help patients improve their joint health and get back to the activities they enjoy by providing personalized and compassionate treatment. In the event that surgical care is clinically appropriate, our team includes Dr. Daniel Murphy—an applauded orthopedic sports medicine surgeon who utilizes the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery.
Contact Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group today to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic doctor on our team and learn about your osteoarthritis treatment options. You can also request an appointment online when it’s convenient for you. Our practice is proud to be a division of Florida Medical Clinic and serves adolescents, adults, and seniors in the Tampa area.
