Hyaluronic acid injections for knee pain- Solomon’s Story
Solomon is a keen cyclist. A few years ago, his knee started troubling him and affecting his ability to cycle and work. He went to various consultants for advice in the management of his knee pain as he was worried about the prospect of needing a knee replacement. He had the good fortune of meeting an orthopaedic surgeon who introduced him to the concept of injectable Hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee arthritis. In this video, Solomon tells us about his pain and what he tried before finding Hyaluronic acid injections. He also highlights his personal experience with the proceedure, how long the knee takes to settle after an injection and how it then feels.
Why a Hyaluronic acid injection instead of a steroid injection?
Patient’s presenting with mild to moderate osteoarthritic changes in their knee, may respond well to Hyaluronic acid. It is already present in our bodies and helps cushion and lubricate joints. If you have some wear on the joint surfaces that is causing pain, a Hyaluronic acid injection can help relieve symptoms and can last longer than a steroid injection. Hyaluronic acid is not a drug and therefore is safe to have with other medications. It also does not cause any long term damage to the joint like repeated steroid injections can. It is generally recommended to not have any more than around 3 injections of a steroid into any 1 joint per year to avoid degrading the joint further and steroid injections may only last up to 8 weeks! In contrast, a Hyaluronic acid injection could give you up to 12 months of symptomatic relief and can be repeated without risk of degrading the joint surface.
How do you get a Hyaluronic acid injection in the knee?
If you are suffering from mild to moderate osteoarthritis in the knee, then chances are you are a suitable candidate to try a Hyaluronic acid injection. Our clinical specialists will assess you in clinic which will include a comprehensive physical assessment and ultrasound scan. They will then discuss the findings with you and give you some treatment options to consider.
If you are wanting to get an injection of Hyaluronic acid on the same day, then they will perform that procedure at the time once you have made an informed decision on the product you wish to try.
Summary
In summary, a Hyaluronic acid injection has little side affects and does not harm the joint long term. Therefore, if you are looking for longer lasting relief and would like to preserve the joint surfaces in your knee before needing a knee replacement, then a Hyaluronic acid injection maybe a suitable treatment choice for you.
If you would like more information or would like to book an appointment, please contact us at OC Injections on 0207 636 5774 or email bookings@ocinjections.co.uk