Treatment options

Knee Injections for Osteoarthritis and Joint Pain

Knee injections are often recommended as a non-surgical treatment option when conservative measures such as activity modification, physical therapy, or oral medications have not provided sufficient relief. Injections can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function, which may help in delaying the need for more invasive surgical procedures.

When are Knee Injections Used?

Injections are typically considered for patients experiencing the following symptoms:

  • Persistent knee pain that interferes with daily activities.
  • Localised inflammation or swelling (effusion).
  • Mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
  • A preference to postpone or avoid surgical intervention.

Types of Knee Injections

Commonly referred to as “cortisone shots,” these are powerful anti-inflammatory agents injected directly into the joint.

  • Mechanism: They provide rapid relief by suppressing local inflammation and reducing swelling.

  • Suitability: These are often best for patients experiencing an acute “flare-up” or severe pain. The effects are usually felt within a few days, although they are typically short-term and last from a few weeks to several months.

This treatment involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee. This is a naturally occurring substance found in healthy joint fluid.

  • Mechanism: In an osteoarthritic knee, the joint fluid becomes thin. Viscosupplementation helps to lubricate and cushion the joint by acting like a “shock absorber.”

  • Suitability: This is primarily used for mild to moderate osteoarthritis. While it may take several weeks to feel the full effect, the relief can often last up to six months.

PRP is an autologous treatment, which means it is derived from the patient’s own blood.

  • Mechanism: A small sample of the patient’s blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, which are rich in growth factors. This concentrate is then injected into the knee to support the body’s natural healing processes and modulate inflammation.

  • Suitability: This is often chosen by patients seeking a biological approach to manage early-stage degenerative changes and chronic tendon issues.

APS is a highly concentrated form of PRP that specifically targets the proteins responsible for cartilage breakdown.

  • Mechanism: Like PRP, it uses the patient’s own blood. However, the processing technique focuses on extracting a high concentration of anti-inflammatory cytokines. These “good proteins” help to neutralise the inflammatory proteins in the joint that cause pain and cartilage degradation.

  • Suitability: This is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis who are looking for a longer-lasting biological treatment. Some clinical studies indicate relief for up to 12 to 24 months from a single injection.

Estimated Cost of Treatments

The cost of knee injections in Singapore varies depending on the type of medication or biological kit used. These figures are provided for general guidance.
Injection Type Estimated Cost Range (per knee)
Corticosteroid
$250 – $600
Viscosupplementation
$400 – $1,800
PRP Therapy
$900 – $2,200
APS (Autologous Protein Solution)
$2,500 – $4,500
Note: These estimates typically exclude the initial specialist consultation fee and diagnostic imaging. For most outpatient knee injections, Medisave is generally not applicable, though coverage may vary based on private insurance policies.

Limitations of Knee Injections

While effective for many, it is important to understand the clinical limitations:

  • Not a Permanent Cure: Injections manage symptoms but do not reverse advanced structural damage.

  • Stage-Dependent: They are most effective for Stage 1 to 3 osteoarthritis; “bone-on-bone” (Stage 4) cases often require surgical discussion.

  • Temporary Effects: Relief duration varies by treatment type and the patient’s biological response.

  • Frequency Limits: Corticosteroid use is generally limited to 3 to 4 times per year to protect local tissue health.

Frequently Asked Questions

The timeline for pain relief varies depending on the substance used. Corticosteroid injections typically provide relief within 2 to 3 days. Conversely, biological treatments like PRP or APS, as well as Viscosupplementation, may take several weeks to reach their full effect as they work by modulating the joint environment or providing lubrication.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort, similar to a standard blood test. A local anaesthetic may be used to numb the skin at the injection site to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible.

It is generally recommended to rest the joint for 24 to 48 hours following the procedure. You should avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or high-impact running, during this brief recovery period. After this, most patients can return to their normal daily routines.

The most common side effects are temporary and include mild swelling, redness, or soreness at the injection site. These usually resolve within a couple of days. As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a very minimal risk of infection, which your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation.

Yes, most patients are able to drive themselves home after a knee injection. However, if you are experiencing significant pain or discomfort prior to the appointment, you may prefer to arrange for transport.

WHY CHOOSE DR YONG REN

Your Trusted Knee Pain Specialist

Knee Pain Consultation & X-ray

Dr Yong Ren brings extensive expertise to the field of minimally invasive orthopaedic procedures. His background includes specialist training in Switzerland, focusing on complex orthopaedic trauma and reconstruction, underscoring his capability in handling simple to highly complex joint issues.

Choosing us means you benefit from:

Minimally Invasive Focus

Dr Yong Ren’s practice prioritises the least invasive techniques, leading to smaller scars, less post-operative pain, and faster return to function.

Comprehensive Care Pathway

We believe in treating the whole patient, not just the injury. This includes a full, multi-modal pathway from non-operative treatments (like physical therapy and injections) to the latest surgical techniques.

Local Expertise and Clarity

We provide clear, locally-relevant guidance on everything from the procedure itself to the intricacies of Medisave claimability and insurance processing in Singapore.

Start Your Journey to Recovery Today

If you have been living with persistent pain, or if you have questions about your orthopaedic condition and wish to explore personalised, advanced treatment options, we encourage you to consult with Dr Yong Ren.

Take the first step toward a pain-free life with a $150 Knee Pain Consultation & X-ray.