Knee osteoarthritis is a condition that affects more than 10% of adults over the age of 60, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

While conservative treatments such as physical therapy and pain medication can help manage symptoms, some patients may require more aggressive treatment options such as injectable treatments. These treatments aim to alleviate pain and improve function by reducing inflammation, increasing lubrication, and promoting tissue repair.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are one of the most common treatments used for knee osteoarthritis. They work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the joint, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

These injections are typically given directly into the knee joint under ultrasound guidance by a healthcare professional.

Studies have shown that corticosteroid injections can provide short-term pain relief for up to two to four weeks.

However, the long-term effectiveness of these injections is still debated, as some studies have found that they may worsen joint damage over time. Additionally, corticosteroid injections may have side effects such as joint infection, nerve damage, and skin thinning.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are another injectable treatment option for knee osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that helps lubricate and cushion joints.

These injections aim to supplement the natural supply of hyaluronic acid in the knee joint, reducing friction and improving mobility.

Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid injections can provide pain relief for up to six months. They may also improve joint function and reduce the need for pain medication.

However, not all patients may respond to this treatment, and it may not be effective for more severe cases of knee osteoarthritis.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections involve taking a small sample of the patient’s own blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and then injecting it into the knee joint.

Platelets contain growth factors that can stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, making them a potentially promising treatment option for knee osteoarthritis.

While the evidence for PRP injections in knee osteoarthritis is still limited, some studies have shown promising results.

One study found that PRP injections were more effective than hyaluronic acid injections for reducing pain and improving joint function. However, larger and more rigorous studies are needed to fully evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment option.

Stem Cell Injections

Stem cell injections involve taking stem cells from the patient’s own body or from a donor, processing them, and injecting them into the knee joint.

Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including cartilage cells, making them a potentially promising treatment option for knee osteoarthritis.

While the evidence for stem cell injections in knee osteoarthritis is still limited, some studies have shown promising results.

One study found that patients who received adipose-derived stem cell injections had significant improvements in pain, function, and quality of life compared to those who received a placebo. However, larger and more rigorous studies are needed to fully evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment option.

Conclusion

Injectable treatments such as corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, platelet-rich plasma injections, and stem cell injections can provide a range of benefits for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

While these treatments have different mechanisms of action and varying levels of evidence, they all aim to alleviate pain and improve function by reducing inflammation, increasing lubrication, and promoting tissue repair. However, it is important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of these treatments with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment option for their individual needs.