Categories: Primary Care

What to Expect From Knee Injections for Pain Relief

Knee pain can impact mobility and overall quality of life. If you are looking for non-surgical relief from knee pain, knee injections can help manage discomfort and improve joint function. Understanding what to expect before undergoing his treatment can help you feel more informed and prepared.

Understanding knee injections

Knee injections deliver medication directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and pain. Medical professionals often recommend them when other treatments, such as physical therapy or oral medications, fail to provide sufficient relief. The type of injection used depends on the underlying cause of the pain, the severity of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health.

Types of knee injections

Corticosteroid injections

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that provide rapid pain relief for conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. These injections can reduce swelling and discomfort for several weeks or months. However, repeated use over time may weaken cartilage or increase the risk of side effects, so medical professionals recommend using them sparingly and when medically necessary.

Hyaluronic acid injections

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in joint fluid that provides lubrication and cushioning. In individuals with arthritis, this fluid may become thin or depleted. Hyaluronic acid injections aim to restore the joint’s natural lubrication and decrease knee pain.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

PRP injections use a patient's own blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets that promote healing. The platelets contain growth factors that can support tissue repair and reduce inflammation. This approach is common for chronic knee pain, particularly in early stages of osteoarthritis or sports-related injuries.

The procedure and what to expect

Before the injection, the healthcare provider typically cleans the knee area and may use a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. In some cases, they may use imaging guidance, such as ultrasound, to ensure accurate placement of the needle. The injection process itself usually takes only a few minutes.

After the procedure, mild soreness or swelling around the injection site is common. Patients will likely need to rest for a short period before resuming normal activities. The onset of pain relief varies depending on the type of injection used. Corticosteroid injections may offer quick results, while hyaluronic acid and PRP injections may take several weeks for patients to notice their full benefits.

Recovery and follow-up

Knee injections can provide meaningful pain relief and improved joint mobility. That said, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to relief, so results vary among different patients. Some patients experience lasting comfort for several months, while others may require periodic follow-up treatments to maintain relief from knee pain. In most cases, knee injections are part of a complementary treatment plan that may include regular exercise, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to support long-term joint health.

Find relief from knee pain

Knee injections are a valuable option for managing knee pain without the need for surgery. This treatment offers targeted relief to improve function and reduce inflammation. Would you like to learn more about our knee injection treatment options? Call our Houston office to schedule a consultation and get the relief you need from knee pain.

Request an appointment here: https://eldridgeclinic.com or call Eldridge Family Clinic at (281) 946-1351 for an appointment in our Houston office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

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