If you’re one of the millions of people dealing with knee pain, you know just how much it can impact your daily life. Simple tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of bed can become a challenge. Thankfully, there are options to help alleviate knee pain and improve your quality of life.
In this article, we will explore two common types of injections used to treat knee pain: corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid.
Corticosteroids: Powerful Relief for Acute Knee Pain
Corticosteroids, also known as cortisone injections, are a popular choice for treating acute knee pain caused by inflammation or injury.
These injections contain a synthetic version of the hormone cortisol, which is naturally produced by the body’s adrenal glands.
When injected into the knee joint, corticosteroids work to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.
How it Works
Corticosteroids act by suppressing the immune response in the affected area, which helps to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
The injection is delivered directly into the knee joint under the guidance of ultrasound or fluoroscopy.
Pros
Corticosteroid injections provide rapid relief from acute knee pain, often within 24 to 48 hours.
They can be a suitable option for individuals who need immediate relief or those unable to tolerate oral pain medications.
Corticosteroids are also cost-effective compared to other treatment options.
Cons
While corticosteroids offer short-term relief, they are not a long-term solution.
Repeated use of corticosteroid injections can lead to side effects such as weakened tendons, cartilage damage, and increased risk of infection.
Therefore, it is important to discuss the frequency and duration of corticosteroid injections with your healthcare provider.
Hyaluronic Acid: Lubrication and Joint Protection
Hyaluronic acid injections offer a different approach to knee pain management.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the synovial fluid of healthy joints, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber.
In individuals with knee osteoarthritis, the level of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to increased friction, pain, and stiffness.
How it Works
Hyaluronic acid injections use a gel-like solution injected directly into the affected knee.
This helps supplement the diminishing hyaluronic acid and restore lubrication, reducing pain and improving joint function.
Pros
Hyaluronic acid injections provide longer-lasting relief compared to corticosteroids, with effects lasting up to several months.
They can be an excellent option for individuals with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who have not responded well to other treatments.
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally well-tolerated and have a lower risk of side effects compared to corticosteroids.
Cons
Hyaluronic acid injections may not be suitable for everyone, and individual responses can vary. They may not provide significant pain relief for severe cases of knee osteoarthritis.
Additionally, the cost of hyaluronic acid injections can be higher than corticosteroids.
When to Visit Your Orthopedic Doctor for Knee Injections
If you’re experiencing knee pain that is impacting your daily activities and quality of life, it may be time to consult with an orthopedic doctor.
While knee injections can provide relief for certain conditions, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice to determine if they are the right treatment option for you.
Here are some scenarios when it may be appropriate to visit your orthopedic doctor for knee injections:
1. Persistent Knee Pain
If you’ve been experiencing persistent knee pain that hasn’t improved with rest, over-the-counter pain medications, or other conservative treatments, it’s advisable to consult with an orthopedic doctor.
They can evaluate your condition, diagnose the underlying cause of your knee pain, and recommend appropriate treatment options, including knee injections.
2. Inflammatory Conditions
If you have an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis or gout that affects your knee joint, an orthopedic doctor can help manage your symptoms.
In such cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
3. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that commonly affects the knees.
If you have knee osteoarthritis and are experiencing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, an orthopedic doctor can assess the severity of your condition.
Depending on the stage of osteoarthritis, they may recommend hyaluronic acid injections to improve joint lubrication and provide relief.
4. Failed Conservative Treatments
Have you already tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, activity modification, and weight management, but have not achieved satisfactory results?
If so, it may be time to consider knee injections.
Consulting with an orthopedic doctor will allow them to evaluate your progress, discuss potential treatment options with you, and determine if knee injections are appropriate for your specific situation.
Knee Pain Relief in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Injections for knee pain, such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, are great approaches to managing and relieving knee pain. Corticosteroids provide rapid relief from acute inflammation, while hyaluronic acid injections work to restore lubrication and improve joint function for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. Consult your doctor to determine which injection option is most suitable for you based on your specific condition and needs.
Are you looking for knee pain relief in Ft. Lauderdale? You can rely on Paul Meli Orthopedic Surgery’s Dr. Paul Meli. Under our care, you will receive the best care you need and deserve. You may reach our helpful staff today at (954) 324-7711. You can also book a visit using our secure online request form.
We look forward to serving you!
