A gel injection…why would I want to get a gel injection into my knee? Well, let’s discuss what a gel injection is and how it can prevent you from dealing with persistent joint pain, possibly undergoing unnecessary surgery, or a joint replacement.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) joint injection, commonly known as a “gel injection”, is the injection of a viscous solution that helps to supplement the body’s natural joint lubrication, which may be lost from repetitive use or joint degeneration.
Our joints are filled with synovial fluid, our body’s natural joint lubricant, which allows joints to move smoothly with movement and without friction. As our joints degenerate or osteoarthritis progresses, the joint space narrows and the natural synovial fluid becomes less viscous. This then increases the friction within the joint producing the sensation of pain. Hylauronic acid joint injections help to replenish the lubricant and facilitate smooth movement.
Hyaluronic acid joint injections are recommended when the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or acetaminophen is not helpful. HA joint injections are approved by most Medicare and commercial insurances plans for use to reduce joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Here at Advanced Care Specialists, we use these hyaluronic acid, gel joint injections as an adjunct to care to get you on the road faster to functioning with less pain and discomfort while working more effectively.
If you are concerned that you have osteoarthritis, make an appointment with me, the Nurse Practitioner here at Advanced Care Specialists in Racine, Wisconsin. We will give you a full evaluation and determine what the best plan of care is for you to get you moving with less pain.
Looking forward to meeting you!
Haylee Eliasson Nurse Practitioner MSN, APNP, FNP-C
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