Steroid and Hyaluronic Acid Injections

If you are experiencing knee pain from osteoarthritis; steroid and hyaluronic acid injections are two of the most commonly used treatments. In this video, I explain how each one works, how long they last, and who they may suit best. A steroid injection delivers a strong anti-inflammatory medication directly into the knee joint to reduce pain and swelling. It can work quickly, often within a few days, but the effect typically lasts only around four to six weeks. It is important to understand that steroid injections should not be repeated too frequently over time. Research shows that repeated steroid use can damage the cartilage you are trying to protect. For this reason, steroid is generally considered a short-term measure rather than a long-term treatment plan. Steroid injections are not suitable for everyone; and there are some situations where they may not be appropriate. These include active infection in or around the knee, as well as conditions, such as poorly controlled diabetes. Certain medications may also need to be reviewed by your practitioner before treatment can go ahead. It is also worth knowing that because steroid is a drug; it can have a degree of systemic effect beyond the knee itself. This is an important difference from the other injection options, which are designed to stay within the joint and act locally. Hyaluronic acid injections take a very different approach to managing your knee osteoarthritis compared to steroid. Rather than reducing inflammation directly; they work by supporting and improving the natural environment inside your knee joint. It is worth noting that NICE does not currently recommend hyaluronic acid for knee osteoarthritis as part of standard NHS care. However, it remains widely used in private practice; where treatment can be tailored to the individual based on clinical experience and patient response. Hyaluronic acid either lubricates the joint; or provides shock absorption - depending on which product is used. Some products are better suited to more physically active people, while others provide greater shock absorption for those with less demanding lifestyles. The difference between products comes down to their molecular weight, and concentration of hyaluronic acid. Higher molecular weight products tend to act as better shock absorbers; while lower molecular weight products function more effectively as lubricants. Hyaluronic acid is classified as a medical device rather than a drug, and it is injected under ultrasound guidance. It encourages your body to produce more of its own natural joint fluid; and research suggests the effect can last for up to six months. Because hyaluronic acid is not a drug, it does not carry the same risks as repeated steroid injections. It can be safely repeated over time, and many people return for regular treatments to maintain their comfort and function. Some hyaluronic acid products also contain a small amount of steroid mixed into the formulation. This combination allows you to benefit from the short-term anti-inflammatory effect; alongside the longer-lasting support that hyaluronic acid provides. All injections I carry out, are performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement inside the joint. This improves both the safety, and effectiveness of the procedure; and means the treatment is typically well tolerated. If you would like to understand whether steroid, or hyaluronic acid injections could help your knee - I would be happy to discuss your situation. You can book a consultation through my website; and together we can work out the best approach for you.