Knee Injections: What They Are, How They Work, and What You Need to Know

When your knee hurts every time you stand up, walk, or climb stairs, knee injections, a targeted treatment that delivers medication directly into the knee joint to reduce pain and inflammation. Also known as joint injections, they’re a common option for people with osteoarthritis, tendonitis, or other joint conditions who haven’t found relief from pills or physical therapy. Unlike oral meds that travel through your whole body, knee injections focus right where the problem is—cutting down side effects and speeding up results.

There are two main types you’ll hear about: cortisone shots, a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid that reduces swelling and pain for weeks or months, and hyaluronic acid knee injections, a gel-like substance that acts like extra joint fluid to cushion and lubricate the knee. Cortisone works fast but isn’t meant for long-term use—too many shots can weaken tissue. Hyaluronic acid takes longer to kick in, but some people feel better for half a year or more. Neither fixes the root cause, like worn-down cartilage, but they can buy you time to avoid surgery or make physical therapy more effective.

Not everyone responds the same way. Some people get months of relief from one shot. Others feel nothing at all. Factors like how advanced your arthritis is, your weight, and even your activity level play a role. If you’ve tried ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers with no luck, a knee injection might be the next step. But it’s not a magic fix. You still need to manage your weight, stay active, and protect your joints. And if you have diabetes, an infection, or are on blood thinners, your doctor needs to know—some injections aren’t safe for everyone.

What happens during the procedure? It’s quick—usually under 15 minutes. Your doctor cleans the area, may numb your skin, then inserts a needle into the joint. Sometimes they’ll drain fluid first to reduce swelling. Then they inject the medicine. You might feel pressure or a brief pinch, but it’s not usually painful. Afterward, you’ll be told to avoid heavy activity for a day or two. Some swelling or soreness is normal for a day or two. If your pain gets worse or you develop a fever, call your doctor right away—that could mean an infection.

People often ask if these shots are worth it. For many, yes. They help people get back to walking the dog, playing with grandkids, or just getting out of bed without pain. But they’re not for everyone. If you’ve had multiple shots with no benefit, or if your joint damage is severe, your doctor might suggest other options like physical therapy, braces, or even surgery. The goal isn’t to delay the inevitable—it’s to give you more good days now.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how knee injections fit into broader treatment plans, what to watch for after getting one, how they compare to other joint treatments, and why some people stop responding over time. These aren’t just ads or generic advice—they’re practical, science-backed insights from people who’ve been there.