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Viscoelastic Injection Therapy

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What Is Viscoelastic Injection Therapy for the Knee?

Lubricate & Protect with Advanced Gel Injections

Persistent knee pain—from arthritis or wear-and-tear—can be discouraging. When physical therapy, medications, and cortisone injections don’t provide sustained relief, viscoelastic (“gel”) injections offer a natural, FDA-approved method to restore joint lubrication and cushion.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we prioritize education over promotion, helping you understand how these injections can fit into your recovery journey.

  • Revolutionary Cartilage Restoration
  • Long-Lasting Results
  • Minimally Invasive Procedure

What Are Gel (Viscoelastic) Injections?

Viscoelastic injections—also called hyaluronic acid (HA) injections or Visco supplementation—deliver a gel-like lubricant directly into the knee joint.

  • What it replaces: Hyaluronic acid in healthy joints acts as natural shock absorber and joint fluid. Arthritis causes this fluid to thin, increasing friction and pain
  • How it works: Restores joint lubrication, reduces friction, and may protect cartilage by minimizing inflammation .

This therapy is FDA-approved specifically for knee osteoarthritis

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Why It’s Ideal for Knee Use

The knee is especially vulnerable to degenerative changes due to its weight-bearing role and complex joint surfaces.

Visco supplementation is most effective when:

  • You have mild to moderate osteoarthritis
  • Conservative treatments haven’t fully resolved symptoms
  • You want to delay surgery while maintaining activity

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

What the Research Says

Evidence supports moderate pain and functional improvements lasting several months:

  • A 2022 BMJ review showed small but meaningful pain reduction at 5–13 weeks, versus placebo
  • Meta-analysis: HA offers pain/function benefits comparable to NSAIDs, with better safety profile
  • Up to six months of relief with repeat injections, safely administered every few months .
  • ~60% of patients report significant benefit in real-world studies

Guideline stance: ACR made a conditional recommendation (neither for nor against). AMSSM recommends it for patients ≥60 (Grade II–III arthritis), and conditionally for younger patients .

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

How It Works at Dr. Burke Orthopedics

1. Evaluation & Education

  • Comprehensive knee exam and imaging review
  • Learn about HA vs cortisone & PRP
  • Understand outcomes, timing, and side effects

2. Injection Procedure
  • Office visit; joint is sterilized and possibly numbed
  • Optional imaging (ultrasound or X-ray) to guide placement
  • Slow injection of HA gel—your knee is bandaged and ready to go home

3. Post-Injection Care
  • Mild discomfort for 24–72 hrs; ice and rest recommended
  • Avoid strenuous activities for 48 hrs, resume controlled movement

4. Series & Follow-Up
  • Usually 1–5 injections over several weeks based on product protocol OrthoInfo
  • Relief may take 4–6 weeks; benefits often last up to 6 months
  • Re-treatment is possible when symptoms return

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Who Benefits Most?

Ideal candidates are individuals with:

  • Persistent knee osteoarthritis (grades II–III)
  • Inadequate relief from conservative treatments
  • Desire to maintain activity and delay surgery
  • Allergies or conditions preventing steroid injections

People under 60 may see benefit, but evidence is stronger and guidelines clearer for those over 60.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Comparison With Other Injections

Method Onset of Relief Duration Safety & Considerations
Cortisone Days 2–3 months May spike blood sugar/BP; multi-use limits
Hyaluronic Acid Weeks 4–6 months Mild side effects; few restrictions Hospital for Special
PRP 4–8 weeks 6–12 months Emerging therapy; insurance often not covered

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Free Patient Guide

Download “Knee Lubrication 101: Viscoelastic Therapy Explained”
Download Now

About Dr. Robert Burke

With over 20 years' experience, Dr. Burke is dedicated to evidence-based, individualized care.

  • Uses precise imaging in injection guidance
  • Offers honest discussion about realistic outcomes
  • Helps you understand ALL joint care options—from gel injections to surgical paths

“Our goal is improving life quality—not pushing the latest tech. Gel injections may help—not cure—but they deserve clarity and care.” – Dr. Burke

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Patient Experiences

“After gel shots, my stiffness and pain eased—enough to start walking again with less worry.”
— Diane H., Houston, TX

“It took three weeks to feel better—but it lasted nearly half a year. Worth exploring before thinking of surgery.”
— Mark L., Pearland

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Expected Benefits

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Why It’s More Than Just a Knee Treatment

While this page focuses on knee care, PRP is also being studied for other orthopedic applications. Our clinic considers each patient's needs on a case-by-case basis.

By understanding how PRP behaves in soft tissue, tendon, and joint environments, we tailor recommendations that go beyond one-size-fits-all claims.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

We Also Explore Other Regenerative Options

While this page highlights knee gel injections, Dr. Burke Orthopedics offers consultations on other techniques like PRP, MACI, and more—always with an educational lens and your well-being at the center.

Our approach is clear: Empower patients—never sell to them

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Key Takeaways

  • Gel injections are FDA-approved for knee arthritis, offering low-risk symptom relief.
  • Best for mild-to-moderate cases, they may delay surgery and improve function.
  • At Dr. Burke's clinic, you’ll receive careful guidance, expert injections, and honest follow-up.

If you’re thinking about your next step, start with knowledge—we’re here to help you make it.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA Approved

Schedule a No-Obligation Educational Visits

Explore whether viscoelastic gel injections are right for your knee—and your lifestyle.
Or get our free guide to learn more:
(832) 699-6771
Request an Educational Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Is it painful?
    You may feel mild discomfort during or after injections. Most tolerate it well.
  • What's the injection schedule?
    Typically 3–5 weekly injections, depending on product used .
  • How quickly do I improve?
    Full benefit often appears in 4–6 weeks; some may get earlier relief.
  • Is it covered by insurance?
    Many plans cover HA products; we can assist with insurance questions.
  • Are repeat courses safe?
    Yes. Patients often repeat injections every 6 months with no increased risk OrthoInfo.
"At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our focus is on you. With personalized care, advanced orthopedic treatments, and a commitment to getting you back to what you love, we’re here to support your journey to better health and mobility."