Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis: What to Expect

 If you’ve been dealing with knee osteoarthritis, you know how frustrating and limiting the pain can be. Simple activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair, become painful and challenging. 

When over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes aren’t enough, Pavel Muradov, MD, offers hyaluronic acid injections as the next step to help you get moving again at Integrity Orthopedics in Katy, Texas. 

Let’s break down what they are, how they work, and what you can expect before, during, and after treatment. 

What are hyaluronic acid injections? 

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in your joints. It acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping your knees move smoothly and comfortably. But in people with osteoarthritis, the amount and quality of hyaluronic acid in the joint often decreases, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are designed to restore lubrication in the joint, reduce friction, and ease your symptoms. Benefits of hyaluronic acid injections may include:

• Reduced joint pain and inflammation
• Improved mobility and range of motion
• Delay in the need for more invasive procedures like knee surgery
• Relief that can last several months 

We typically recommend these injections for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who haven’t found relief from other treatments. 

What happens during the procedure? 

The injection is a quick, in-office procedure, and most patients find it relatively painless. We begin by cleaning the area and, if necessary, using a local anesthetic to numb your knees. Using a fine needle, we inject the hyaluronic acid directly into the joint space. 

In some cases, if there’s excess fluid in your knee (called an effusion), it may be drained first. The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes, and most patients can return to normal activities immediately after their appointment. However, we recommend avoiding high-impact exercise for 24-48 hours. 

When will I notice relief? 

Unlike cortisone shots, which provide quick but short-lived relief, hyaluronic acid injections work gradually. You likely won’t feel an immediate difference, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t working. Here’s a general timeline: 

• Some patients start feeling improvement in 1-2 weeks
• Maximum benefits are usually felt by week 4-6
• Relief can last anywhere from 3-6 months, sometimes longer 

The results vary from person to person. If you respond well, Dr. Muradov may recommend repeating the injections once or twice a year to help manage your symptoms. 

Is it right for you? 

Hyaluronic acid injections are a great option for many, but not everyone. You may be a good candidate if you: 

• Have mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
• Want to avoid or delay surgery 
• Haven’t gotten enough relief from NSAIDs, exercise, or other conservative treatments
• Prefer a non-steroidal option for pain relief

Dr. Muradov evaluates your condition, medical history, and lifestyle to determine if this treatment is a good fit. 

In the end, living with knee osteoarthritis doesn’t mean having to settle for constant discomfort. Hyaluronic acid injections offer a low-risk, drug-free option that can provide long-lasting relief and help you stay active. 

If you’re curious whether this treatment could work for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment.