Hyaluronic Acid Injection – Hyaluronic Acid Shot for the Knee

Hyaluronic acid injection is a treatment method used to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint.

Knee pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages and significantly reduce quality of life. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, and rheumatoid arthritis are among the many causes of knee pain.

Although various treatment options such as pain medications, physical therapy, and exercise are available, they may not be sufficient in all cases. In such situations, hyaluronic acid injections offer an effective alternative.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is one of the most important natural components of joint fluid, produced by synovial cells found in the soft tissue within the joint. It also plays a major structural role in the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces.

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do?

Lubrication: Hyaluronic acid increases the viscosity and slipperiness of the synovial fluid inside the joint. With these two properties, it reduces friction between the cartilage surfaces, thereby helping to prevent further wear and tear.

Shock Absorption: Think of hyaluronic acid as a natural shock absorber and lubricant for your joints. It allows the cartilage surfaces to glide smoothly over each other during movement, reducing mechanical stress on the joint.

In people with osteoarthritis, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the joint fluid decreases, which leads to increased cartilage degradation and worsening joint pain.

What Is a Hyaluronic Acid Injection?

Also known as a joint lubricant shot or gel injection, a hyaluronic acid injection is a way to replenish the lost lubrication in the joint. In cases of osteoarthritis, the natural level of hyaluronic acid within the joint is reduced. By injecting synthetic hyaluronic acid directly into the joint, we can restore this vital component. This treatment is called viscosupplementation.

How Does a Hyaluronic Acid Injection Work?

When injected into the joint, hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and temporarily reduces friction and wear on the cartilage surfaces.

Another key benefit of hyaluronic acid is its anti-inflammatory effect. It helps neutralize harmful inflammatory proteins (cytokines) that increase within the joint in cases of osteoarthritis, thereby offering pain relief and protection for the cartilage.

How Is a Hyaluronic Acid Injection Performed?

The procedure is performed in a sterile clinical setting. After cleaning the skin around the joint with an antiseptic solution, a fine needle is used to access the joint. If there is excess fluid in the joint, it is first aspirated. Then, the hyaluronic acid is carefully injected into the joint space.

In my own practice, I always use ultrasound guidance during joint injections. This allows me to visualize the joint in real-time and ensures that the medication is delivered to the precise location where it will be most effective.

Which Joints Can Be Treated with Hyaluronic Acid Injections?

Hyaluronic acid injections are most commonly applied to the knee joint. However, they can also be used in other major joints such as the hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and wrist. Additionally, smaller joints in the hands and feet may also be treated with hyaluronic acid, depending on the clinical need.

For joints other than the knee, the injection is usually performed under image guidance, such as ultrasound, to ensure precise placement of the medication.

Hyaluronic Acid Treatment

Hyaluronic acid injections are used as a symptomatic treatment for joint osteoarthritis. While hyaluronic acid does not regenerate cartilage, it provides pain relief and improves joint function, which is why it is commonly used in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

This treatment is not typically the first-line option. It is usually considered after conservative measures such as pain medications, weight loss, and muscle strengthening exercises around the joint have been attempted but fail to provide adequate relief.

How Long Does the Effect of a Hyaluronic Acid Injection Last?

The duration of pain relief after a hyaluronic acid injection depends on the severity of osteoarthritis. Most patients experience significant relief for 6 months to 2 years following the injection. If symptoms return, the injection can be repeated.

How Many Hyaluronic Acid Injections Are Required?

The number of injections depends on the formulation and brand of the product. Some hyaluronic acid products are given as a single injection, while others are administered as a series of 3 injections, typically spaced a week apart.

How Many Times Per Year Can Hyaluronic Acid Injections Be Given?

For single-dose formulations of hyaluronic acid, it is generally not recommended to receive more than two injections per year.

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Can Other Injections Be Given Together with Hyaluronic Acid?

Yes, they can. The most common combinations involve hyaluronic acid with corticosteroid injections or Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. Once the needle is inserted into the joint, it is possible to inject both hyaluronic acid and either cortisone or PRP one after the other without removing the needle.

When Should Hyaluronic Acid Injections Be Avoided?

Hyaluronic acid injections should not be administered in the following cases:

• If there is an active joint infection

• In patients with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia

• If the patient has a known allergy to hyaluronic acid

Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Like any medical treatment, hyaluronic acid injections may cause side effects, although they are rare. Possible side effects include:

• Swelling in the joint

• Redness at the injection site

• Temporary pain or tenderness

In very rare cases, the injection may lead to joint infection (septic arthritis). If this occurs, urgent arthroscopic cleaning of the joint is required.

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What Are the Common Brands of Hyaluronic Acid?

Some commonly used hyaluronic acid brands for intra-articular injections include:

• Monovisc

• Orthovisc

• Hyalgan

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Hyaluronic Acid Injection Knee Price

Since hyaluronic acid injections are imported products, prices may vary depending on exchange rates. The cost also changes based on the brand of the product.

In addition, there can be price differences between single-session injections and multi-session treatment plans. While a single dose may be sufficient for some patients, others may require 3 to 5 sessions depending on the severity of the condition.

To learn about the current prices, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp.

Are There Any Harms of Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid injections generally have very few side effects. The most commonly reported short-term issues include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site

• Temporary increase in joint pain

Hyaluronic Acid Injection for the Knee – Patient Testimonials

Most of my patients report high satisfaction with hyaluronic acid injections. Many have experienced a significant reduction in knee pain and improved range of motion after the treatment.

Here’s a patient testimonial:

• "My experience with Dr. Utku Erdem Özer for a hyaluronic acid injection in my knee was very positive. His professionalism and sincere approach helped me feel at ease throughout the process. He clearly explained each step before and after the injection and was quick to answer all of my questions and concerns. After the procedure, the pain and stiffness in my knees significantly decreased. I noticed an immediate improvement in my mobility and was able to return to my daily activities more comfortably. Even after the treatment, Dr. Özer remained attentive during follow-ups and made it clear that I could reach out to him at any time if needed."

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid injection is an effective treatment option for reducing pain and inflammation in the knee joint. It typically has minimal side effects and provides meaningful relief for many patients.

For more information about the treatment and pricing of hyaluronic acid injections, don’t hesitate to contact us through our communication channels.

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