What Are Gel Injections?

Gel injections, also known as viscosupplementation, involve injecting hyaluronic acid into a joint to relieve pain and improve joint function. Hyaluronic acid is a gel-like substance that is naturally found in joint fluid. By injecting it directly into an affected area, it can help lubricate a joint, ease pain, and improve mobility.

What Does Gel Injections Treat?

Gel injections are primarily used to treat osteoarthritis, typically in the knees. However, gel injections can also be used for arthritis in the hips, shoulders, and ankles, and in some cases, they’re used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

In arthritis, the natural joint fluid becomes thin and less effective, resulting in pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited motion. Gel injections replenish the hyaluronic acid, easing the symptoms of arthritis.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Gel Injections?

Gel injections may be a good option for those who

• Have mild to moderate osteoarthritis
• Have not responded well to other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy
• Want to delay or avoid surgery
• Don’t have severe joint inflammation or an infection

Speak with your healthcare provider to see if gel injections are right for you.

Receiving Gel Injections

Your healthcare provider will start by cleaning and possibly numbing the injection site. Next, you’ll be injected with hyaluronic acid into the joint space. This may be performed alongside an ultrasound to ensure the injection is placed in the right spot. Treatment is performed with a syringe and needle, and you may receive multiple injections. Then, a small bandage will be put over the injection site, and you’ll be free to go home.

After Treatment

You may have slight pain, warmth, and swelling right after the treatment. These symptoms are normal and often don’t last long, however, applying ice to the area for 20 minutes at a time can help.

The injections will not immediately relieve your symptoms, and it may take several weeks before you begin to feel a difference. Speak with your healthcare provider if the injections do not eventually ease your symptoms.