Over time, our joints can degrade, and we may start to experience aches and pains, decreased mobility, and end stiffness. Hyaluronate gel knee joint injections have evolved as a promising treatment for many, especially for Osteoarthritis. At Renew Medical Center in Cincinnati, we provide these state-of-the-art approaches to reduce pain and optimize joint health. In this blog, we take you through everything about hyaluronate gel knee injections, including what they are, how they work, if they have any benefits, and side effects, which will help you decide on the health of your knees.
Hyaluronate Gel Knee Injections Explained
Synovial Fluid and Hyaluronate Gel The synovial fluid (proper name!) that surrounds joints is where we find hyaluronate gel, which provides the viscous yield strength of joint fluid. This liquid-based substance helps to keep the joints loose and ensures they are working smoothly, thus providing some cushioning in doing so. As we age and the hyaluronic acid in our joints decreases, so does the natural ability of the joint to move smoothly, resulting in more friction and inflammation, which leads to pain.
Hyaluronate gel knee injections: -This is called viscosupplementation and in this procedure, a substance is injected into the knee joint. The goal of this treatment is to recover the lubrication properties in the fluid around the joints so that one can get relief from the pain and move freely.
Advantages of Hyaluronate Gel Knee Injections
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Pain Relief
Primary Reason Hyaluronate Gel Knee Injections Are Sought Out By Patients with Osteoarthritis Combine with improvement of the lubrication in the joint, these injections, therefore, allow for decrease pain levels and ultimately patient return to function.
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Improved Joint Function
Many patients also notice improved joint function after receiving these injections, in addition to pain relief. With improved lubrication, the knee joint can move more easily, which means freeze-ups in physical therapy or at home are less likely.
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Reduced Need for Surgery
In fact, in certain patients, hyaluronate gel injections may even help to postpone or eliminate the need for more aggressive surgeries like knee replacement. For those looking to possibly skip the knife, this non-surgical option might just be a game-changer.
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Minimal Downtime
It is a fairly fast procedure, usually done on an outpatient basis. The injection can be done and patients are back walking the same day, which is good for a young, active population.
What happens after the process?
Following are the steps to receive your hyaluronate gel knee injection at Renew Medical Center:
- Your healthcare provider will want to take a full history (including your predominant symptoms), engage in a full physical examination, and discuss why you are presenting with these symptoms. This advice will establish whether you are an eligible candidate for the injections.
- Preparation, the injection site will be clean and sometimes a local anesthetic might be given to reduce pain.
- Injecting: The hyaluronate gel will be insert into the knee joint through a small needle. The process typically requires only a few minutes.
- Post-injection care: After the injection, you may be asked to rest for some time. Follow any care instructions shared by your healthcare provider so you will get the best results.
Knee gel injection side effects
- Although hyaluronate gel knee injections are generally safe, as with any medical procedure, there can be risks. Make sure to address these possible adverse reactions with your Renew Medical Center provider before undergoing any treatment.
Common Side Effects
- Pain or swelling: Sometimes the patient will feel mild pain at the place of injection or it might get swollen. This usually settles down in a day or two.
- Bruise: You may find some small bruising around the injection site, you will see it fade pretty quickly.
- Infection, though uncommon, has a small chance of becoming infected in the site being inject. The area should be kept clean at all times, and the use of post-injection antibiotics is suitable within 5–7 days.
Rare Side Effects
- Even though the side effects that will follow are rarer, keep in mind.
- Allergic Reactions: There have been reports of some individuals having an allergic reaction to the hyaluronate gel. Symptoms may include rash, itching, or difficulty breathing If you have any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Conclusion
For arthritis sufferers, hyaluronate gel knee injections can be an excellent therapeutic tool against knee pain. Their ability to offer pain management, drop down the joint functions, and even delay this surgical treatment as well, they do a lot excellent for your life quality. The team at Renew Medical Center in Cincinnati is committed to helping you find the right knee health treatment for you and giving only the highest quality care tailored to your needs.
If you are ready to learn more about gel injections for the knee or the potential side effects of knee gel injections, then we invite you to contact our knowledgeable team today. We can help you start moving better and doing what you love sooner rather than later! A pain-free life starts with your visit to Renew Medical Center.