Procedure Description
Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are a non-surgical treatment used to relieve knee pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in healthy joint fluid that helps cushion and lubricate the joint. In people with arthritis, this fluid becomes thinner and less effective.
By injecting a purified form of hyaluronic acid directly into the knee joint, this treatment helps restore joint lubrication, reduce friction, and relieve pain—allowing for improved movement and quality of life.
What It Treats
Hyaluronic acid injections are FDA-approved for the treatment of:
Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
Degenerative joint disease of the knee
Joint stiffness and limited mobility
Patients who:
Have not responded to oral medications or physical therapy
Are not yet candidates for knee replacement
Prefer to delay surgery
These injections are not recommended for inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) or active joint infections.
How It Is Performed
You will lie or sit comfortably with your knee exposed.
The skin is cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic.
In some cases, excess joint fluid may be removed first (joint aspiration).
A thin needle is then used to inject hyaluronic acid into the knee joint space.
The procedure may be performed using ultrasound guidance for greater precision.
A small bandage is applied, and you are observed briefly before being discharged.
The injection typically takes 10–15 minutes, and depending on the brand, may be done as a single injection or as a series of 3–5 weekly injections.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
No fasting or sedation is required.
You may continue your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed.
Inform your provider if you:
Have a knee infection, open wounds, or skin irritation near the injection site
Have had allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid products, avian proteins (in older formulations), or local anesthetics
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Wear loose-fitting clothing for easy access to the knee.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Some patients experience mild soreness, swelling, or stiffness for 24–48 hours.
You may apply ice packs and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
Avoid strenuous activity (e.g., running, heavy lifting) for 24–48 hours.
Pain relief typically begins within 1–4 weeks and may last up to 6 months or more, depending on the individual.
Repeat injections may be performed every 6–12 months based on your response and physician recommendation.
Call your provider if you experience:
Signs of infection, including fever, redness, or severe swelling
Persistent pain or stiffness beyond a few days
Any allergic reactions such as rash or shortness of breath
Restore Comfort and Function Without Surgery
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer hyaluronic acid knee injections to help patients with osteoarthritis and joint pain reduce inflammation, improve movement, and avoid or delay knee surgery. Let us help you return to the activities you love.
👉 Schedule a consultation today to find out if viscosupplementation is right for your knee pain.