Hyaluronic acid injections (often called gel shots) aim to add lubrication to an arthritic knee. Results in trials are mixed. UK NICE guidelines do not recommend them, and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) does not recommend them for routine use.
What to know
- Given as one or a series of injections
- Some people report relief; trials show small average benefits
- Side effects are usually mild: short-term pain or swelling
Ask your doctor how it compares with PRP for your knee: several trials have compared the two.