Knee Injections for Arthritis in Rochester, NY
Injections are frequently a part of the treatment plan for our patients dealing with arthritis in their knees. There are two types of injections- corticosteroid (also called “steroid”) and viscosupplementation (or “gel”). Below, we will get into the difference between the types of shots, and what patients can expect if they are administered either one.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of arthritic knees, don’t wait to see a specialist. For patients in the Rochester area, the board-certified orthopaedic specialists with Rochester Community Orthopaedics are here to help. Contact our orthopaedic clinic in Rochester to schedule a consultation and see if knee injections could be helpful for you.To schedule your knee injection consultation, please call (585) 218-4337 or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Should I get a “Steroid” or “Gel” injection for my arthritic knee joint?
Many of our patients receive corticosteroid or steroid injections as part of their treatment plan for knee arthritis. Another common name that is frequently used is “a Cortisone injection”. Along with the administration of the steroid medicine, it was mixed with an anesthetic or numbing medicine which may give temporary relief for 1-4 hours. When the anesthetic wears off, it may take between 2-10 days for the steroid to become fully effective in relieving inflammatory pain. If you are diabetic and you check your blood sugar levels, be aware that the steroid injection may temporarily elevate levels for 1-5 days. If they remain elevated, please contact your Primary Care Physician. The duration of pain relief following steroid injections varies greatly between patients.
Another type of injection that patients may receive is a viscosupplementation injection (or gel injection) comprised of hyaluronic acid. You should be able to resume your normal day to day activities following this type of injection. Gel injections are given on a patient to patient basis and will be discussed with your provider. Everyone responds differently to this injection; most patients begin to feel relief 3-4 weeks after the injection is administered, but can take up to 6 weeks. Duration of relief is also variable, but the injection is considered successful if it lasts for at least 6 months.
- Viscosupplementation Treatment for Knee Arthritis
- What to Know Before Getting a Cortisone Injection
- Patient Resources
