Understanding Your Knee Injection Options

Knee Osteoarthritis is a very common condition that affects over five million people across the United Kingdom. If you are living with knee pain, and have already tried lifestyle changes and physiotherapy - injection therapies may be able to help. Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage inside your knee joint, gradually wears down over the course of time. This wearing process can lead to pain; stiffness; and swelling - particularly during or after physical activity. Above the age of forty-five, around one-in-five people are thought to be affected by this condition. Before recommending any injection therapy, I carry out a thorough clinical assessment of your knee; which may include imaging such as X-ray, or MRI. This helps me understand the extent of your arthritis, and guides the conversation about which treatment options are most appropriate for you. It is important to understand that no single injection is the complete answer to managing Osteoarthritis. Injection therapy works best as part of a broader plan - alongside physiotherapy; strength work; weight management; and other important lifestyle factors. The main injection options available today include: Steroid injections; Hyaluronic acid; Platelet-rich plasma therapy; and a newer treatment called Arthrosamid; each one works differently - and suits different people depending on their activity levels; the severity of their condition; and their personal goals. Some of these options; such as Hyaluronic acid, and Platelet-rich plasma are not currently recommended by NICE for knee osteoarthritis. However, they are widely used in private practice where treatment decisions are guided by clinical experience, and individual patient needs. Steroid injections offer effective short-term relief, and typically last for around four to six weeks. Hyaluronic acid can provide support to the joint for a period of up to six months. Platelet rich plasma therapy may offer benefit for up to twelve months; while Arthrosamid has research showing, effects can last for five years - or, longer. Choosing the right injection will depend on your age; how physically active you are; and what you need from your knee. Your practitioner will also consider the severity of your arthritis, and discuss what outcome you are hoping to achieve. Many people want to delay, or avoid knee replacement surgery for as long as they possibly can. Injection therapies can play an important role in maintaining your function and quality of life during that time. Working with an experienced practitioner, who can assess your knee and discuss your goals, is an important first step. If one type of injection does not give you the result you are looking for; there are usually other options worth exploring. Thank you for watching; Other videos in this series explain each injection type in more detail. If you would like to discuss which option may be right for you, please contact us through my website or email me at george@citius.health