Knee injections

Knee pain and stiffness can make it hard to move comfortably, exercise or even get through everyday tasks. Intra-articular knee injection therapy delivers medication directly into the knee joint to help relieve pain and improve mobility when other treatments haven't provided enough relief. Novant Health orthopedic specialists offer several types of knee injection therapy, including cortisone, hyaluronic acid and PRP injections, tailored to your condition and goals.

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What is intra-articular knee injection therapy?

An intra-articular knee injection is a treatment that places medication directly into the knee joint to reduce pain and improve movement. Because the medication goes straight to the source of the problem, it can offer more targeted relief than oral medications alone.

This knee pain treatment is often recommended when anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, activity changes or ice therapy haven't provided enough relief. Your orthopedic specialist will help determine if knee injection therapy is right for you based on your symptoms, a physical exam and imaging studies.

Common reasons for knee injection therapy

Your physician may recommend intra-articular knee injections if you're living with ongoing knee pain, stiffness or swelling that hasn't improved with other treatments. Common reasons include:

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Gout
Other inflammatory or degenerative knee conditions
Knee pain and swelling that hasn't responded to medication, physical therapy or activity changes

Treatment options (surgical and nonsurgical)

Intra-articular knee injections are nonsurgical treatments, and your physician will recommend the option best suited to your condition and goals. Options include:

Corticosteroid (cortisone) injections: These reduce inflammation in the knee joint by limiting the production of inflammatory cells, helping relieve pain and swelling caused by arthritis or injury.
Hyaluronic acid injections: Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that lubricates the knee and absorbs shock. Arthritis can lower hyaluronic acid levels, contributing to pain and stiffness. This injection can help improve joint movement and ease discomfort.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: PRP is derived from your own blood and contains growth factors that may support tissue healing, reduce pain and improve joint function. Learn more.

Your knee injection procedure is typically performed in a clinical setting. You'll be seated or lying down with your knee positioned for access, and the injection site is sterilized and numbed with a local anesthetic. The needle is carefully guided into the knee joint, sometimes with ultrasound for precision, and medication is injected. In some cases, fluid is withdrawn first to make room for the medicine. A small bandage completes the procedure, and most patients go home the same day.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Recovery after a knee injection is generally straightforward, and your care team will guide you through what to expect. Your plan may include:

Resting the knee and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days
Applying ice to the injection site to reduce swelling
Taking pain-relieving medication as directed
Performing gentle range-of-motion exercises to maintain flexibility

Most patients tolerate the injection well and can return to daily activities within a few days, depending on their specific treatment and condition.

Risks and considerations

Intra-articular knee injections are generally safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are some risks to be aware of, including:

Infection at the injection site
Pain, swelling or irritation after the injection
Inflammation of the joint lining
Rare complications such as septic arthritis or nerve irritation

Your care team will review the risks and benefits with you ahead of time and monitor your progress closely after the injection. They're always available to answer your questions along the way.

Conditions we treat

Our expert team delivers expert care for a wide range of joint injuries and conditions.

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Why treatment is important?

Untreated knee pain can limit your daily activities and affect your overall quality of life. Knee injection therapy can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve function, so you can stay active and keep doing the things you enjoy. With the right care team by your side, relief is within reach.