Ultrasound-Guided Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis

 

Introduction

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions affecting joints, especially as people age. It is a gradual process where the smooth cartilage that cushions the knee begins to break down. This can lead to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. For many, it makes everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or exercising more difficult.

At Joint Injections, clinicians provide ultrasound-guided injections as part of a tailored approach to managing knee osteoarthritis. Ultrasound ensures that each injection is placed with accuracy, allowing treatments such as cortisone, hyaluronic acid, Arthrosamid, and Cingal to be delivered precisely to the affected area.

This blog explores the anatomy of the knee, the nature of osteoarthritis, management strategies, and how ultrasound-guided injections can play a role in care.

Anatomy of the Knee

The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body. It functions as a hinge joint but also allows for slight rotation. Its main components include:

  • Bones — The knee is formed by the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap).
  • Cartilage — Articular cartilage covers the ends of bones, providing a smooth surface for movement. The menisci (medial and lateral) are C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as shock absorbers.
  • Ligaments — The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) provide stability.
  • Synovial membrane — Produces synovial fluid to lubricate the joint.
  • Muscles and tendons — The quadriceps and hamstrings control movement and strength, while the patellar tendon connects the muscles to the tibia.

This complex structure allows weight-bearing, walking, running, and many movements essential to daily life.

Pathology of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that protects the bones of the knee gradually wears away. Without sufficient cartilage, the bones may rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

Key changes include:

  • Thinning of the cartilage.
  • Bony outgrowths (osteophytes).
  • Thickening of the joint capsule.
  • Inflammation of the synovial membrane.
  • Reduction in joint space.

These changes typically develop over time and vary in severity between individuals.

Causes and Risk Factors

A number of factors contribute to the development of knee osteoarthritis, including:

  • Age — More common in older adults.
  • Genetics — Family history may play a role.
  • Previous injury — Trauma or ligament damage can increase risk.
  • Obesity — Extra body weight puts additional stress on the knees.
  • Repetitive stress — Occupations or sports involving frequent kneeling or heavy lifting.
  • Other joint conditions — Such as inflammatory arthritis.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Symptoms can vary in intensity and progression, but common features include:

  • Pain during or after activity.
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting.
  • Swelling around the joint.
  • Reduced flexibility and range of motion.
  • Grinding or clicking sensations (crepitus).
  • Difficulty walking or standing for long periods.

Diagnosis

A clinician will take a detailed history and perform an examination to assess movement, pain, and stability. Diagnostic tools may include:

  • Ultrasound — Useful for guiding injections and assessing fluid or inflammation in soft tissues.

Management of Knee Osteoarthritis

Management depends on the severity of symptoms and individual needs. Options may include:

  • Activity modification and weight management
  • Injections, guided by ultrasound for accuracy

Ultrasound-Guided Injections at Joint Injections

At Joint Injections, clinicians provide a range of injection therapies for knee osteoarthritis. Ultrasound is used to ensure accurate placement into the joint or surrounding tissues.

1. Cortisone Injections

Cortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation within the joint. By calming down inflammatory processes, it may reduce pain and stiffness.

Mechanism of action:

  • Suppresses inflammatory chemicals in the joint.
  • Reduces swelling in the synovial lining.
  • May ease nerve irritation.

2. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in joint fluid that helps with lubrication and shock absorption. In osteoarthritis, its levels are reduced.

Mechanism of action:

  • Restores viscosity of synovial fluid.
  • Improves lubrication between joint surfaces.
  • Provides cushioning during movement.

3. Arthrosamid Injections

Arthrosamid is a polyacrylamide hydrogel injected into the knee joint. Unlike temporary substances, it integrates into the tissue.

Mechanism of action:

  • Provides cushioning by acting as a gel within the joint.
  • Reduces friction between cartilage surfaces.
  • Supports joint movement by forming a protective layer.

4. Cingal Injections

Cingal is a combination injection that contains both hyaluronic acid and a corticosteroid. This provides the benefits of lubrication alongside the anti-inflammatory properties of cortisone.

Mechanism of action:

  • Hyaluronic acid improves joint lubrication.
  • Cortisone reduces inflammation.
  • Together, they target multiple aspects of osteoarthritis.

Why Ultrasound Guidance Matters

Ultrasound provides real-time imaging of the joint. This allows clinicians at Joint Injections to:

  • Accurately guide the needle into the joint.
  • Avoid surrounding structures such as ligaments, tendons, or blood vessels.
  • Confirm correct placement of the injection.
  • Deliver treatment with precision.

Why Choose Joint Injections

  • Clinician-led service focused on musculoskeletal pain.
  • Expertise in ultrasound-guided procedures.
  • Range of treatment options tailored to knee osteoarthritis.
  • Commitment to accurate, safe, and professional care.

Conclusion

Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. Management often involves a combination of approaches, including physiotherapy, lifestyle changes, and injections.

At Joint Injections, ultrasound-guided injections such as cortisone, hyaluronic acid, Arthrosamid, and Cingal are delivered with accuracy to the affected joint. By targeting inflammation, lubrication, and cushioning, these injections are designed to support individuals in managing the challenges of knee osteoarthritis.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Baxter’s Nerve Entrapment

Image
  Introduction Baxter’s Nerve Entrapment , also known as inferior calcaneal nerve entrapment, is a condition that can contribute to chronic heel pain. It is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis due to the overlap in symptoms. The condition arises when the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, known as Baxter’s nerve, becomes compressed or irritated. Anatomy of Baxter’s Nerve Baxter’s nerve is a branch of the lateral plantar nerve, which originates from the tibial nerve. This small but significant nerve travels along the medial aspect of the heel and innervates the abductor digiti minimi muscle of the foot. Due to its anatomical course, Baxter’s nerve is prone to compression between the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle and the medial calcaneal tuberosity. Pathology and Causes of Entrapment Baxter’s nerve entrapment  occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated due to various factors, including: Repetitive stress and overuse  — Activities such as prol...
Read more

Tennis Elbow

  Introduction Tennis elbow , medically known as  lateral epicondylitis , is a condition that affects many individuals, not just athletes. Despite its name, it often arises in people who have never played tennis. It occurs when the tendons in the elbow become irritated, typically due to overuse or repetitive strain. The condition can lead to pain and discomfort, often limiting the ability to carry out daily tasks. At  Alton Pain Clinic , our clinicians frequently see patients experiencing tennis elbow, and we aim to provide an in-depth understanding of the condition. This blog explores its causes, symptoms, anatomy, diagnosis, and various management approaches, including the use of  ultrasound-guided steroid injections  as one of the treatment options we provide. Anatomy of the Elbow To understand tennis elbow, it helps to first appreciate the elbow’s anatomy. The elbow joint connects the  humerus  (upper arm bone) with the  radius  and ...
Read more

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Achilles Tendinopathy

Image
  Achilles tendinopathy   is a common condition affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is characterised by pain, stiffness, and reduced function in the tendon, often developing due to repetitive strain or overuse. While it is prevalent among athletes, particularly runners, it can also affect individuals who engage in activities that place excessive stress on the tendon. Management options for  Achilles tendinopathy  vary depending on the severity and chronicity of the condition. Among the available treatment modalities, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections have gained attention as a potential intervention for managing tendon-related pain and inflammation. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of Achilles tendinopathy, including its anatomy, pathology, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and various management approaches. It will also explore the role of ultrasound-guided cortisone injections in manag...
Read more