What Are Knee Injections?

If you're someone who has been suffering from knee pain, you may have heard of knee injections as a possible treatment option. However, not everyone is aware of what knee injections involve or how they can help alleviate pain. Luckily, ConquestMD is here to explain the basics of this treatment option.

Knee injections, also known as corticosteroid injections or viscosupplementation, involve administering medication directly into the knee joint. There are two major types of knee injections. Corticosteroid injections contain anti-inflammatory drugs that can help reduce knee pain by decreasing inflammation in the joint. Viscosupplementation injections contain hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in our joints, to help lubricate the joint and reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Why Would Someone Need a Knee Injection?

Knee injections are a treatment option for people who have not seen improvement with other conservative treatment options such as physical therapy or medication. They can be used to treat a variety of knee conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and knee injuries such as tendinitis or bursitis.

What to Expect During a Knee Injection

During a knee injection, a needle is inserted into the knee joint and the medication is injected directly into the joint space. The procedure is quick and relatively painless with minimal recovery time needed. Patients may experience some soreness or swelling following the injection, but this typically subsides within a few days.

How Effective Are Knee Injections?

The effectiveness of knee injections varies depending on the patient and their condition. In general, corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief for up to several months, while viscosupplementation injections can provide longer-lasting relief for up to several years. However, it's important to note that knee injections are not a permanent solution and may need to be repeated periodically to maintain pain relief.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Knee Injections?

Like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with knee injections. Some potential risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, these risks are rare and typically outweighed by the potential benefits of the treatment.

At ConquestMD, we believe in offering a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, and knee injections are just one of the treatment options we offer to our patients. If you're suffering from knee pain and are interested in exploring your treatment options, we encourage you to speak with one of our orthopedic doctors. By working together, we can help you overcome your pain and regain your quality of life.

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