Are Joint Injections or Viscosupplementation More Effective When Treating Arthritis?

Arthritis-related joint pain doesn’t just affect mobility - it can significantly impact quality of life. For patients seeking non-surgical relief, joint injections and viscosupplementation are two commonly recommended treatment options. While both can reduce pain and improve function, they work in different ways and are suited for different stages of arthritis.

Understanding Arthritis and Joint Pain

Arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration within a joint. The most common form is osteoarthritis, which occurs when cartilage gradually wears down, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the joint deteriorates, inflammation and friction increase. Interventional treatments are designed to reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and delay the need for surgery.

What Are Joint Injections?

Joint injections typically involve corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory medications) delivered directly into the affected joint.

How They Work

• Reduce inflammation inside the joint

• Calm irritated tissues

• Provide pain relief relatively quickly

Benefits

• Fast-acting relief, often within days

• Effective for acute flare-ups

• Can be used in multiple joints (knees, hips, shoulders, spine-related joints)

Joint injections are often ideal for patients with significant inflammation, swelling, or sudden worsening of arthritis symptoms.

What Is Viscosupplementation?

Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in healthy joint fluid, most commonly into the knee.

How It Works

• Improves lubrication within the joint

• Enhances shock absorption

• Reduces friction between bones

Benefits

• Longer-lasting relief (often several months)

• Improves joint movement and function

• Particularly effective for knee osteoarthritis

Viscosupplementation is often best for patients with chronic knee arthritis who experience stiffness and mechanical pain rather than intense inflammation.

Which Treatment Is More Effective?

The right option depends on several individual factors, including the severity of arthritis, the specific joint affected, and whether symptoms are driven more by inflammation or by cartilage degeneration. A patient’s activity level, lifestyle, and overall health also play an important role in shaping treatment decisions.

In general, joint injections tend to be more effective for short-term pain relief, particularly during inflammatory flare-ups. They work quickly to reduce swelling and discomfort, making them a good option when arthritis symptoms suddenly worsen or interfere with daily activities.

Viscosupplementation, on the other hand, may offer longer-lasting improvement in joint movement and comfort, especially for patients with knee osteoarthritis. By improving joint lubrication, it can help reduce stiffness and friction over time rather than simply calming inflammation.

In some cases, Dr. Philip may recommend combining or alternating these treatments as part of a comprehensive arthritis management plan. This personalized approach allows care to evolve as symptoms change, helping patients maintain mobility and quality of life.

Find the Right Treatment for Your Joint Pain

Both joint injections and viscosupplementation are effective treatments for arthritis when used appropriately. The key is selecting the right treatment at the right time, based on your specific condition and goals. With expert guidance, many patients can significantly reduce pain, improve movement, and delay or avoid surgery.

Contact Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine to explore a personalized plan for managing your arthritis pain. Visit our office in Lake Geneva or Kenosha, Wisconsin, or call (262) 299-6199 to book an appointment.