Knee replacement is a fantastic surgery, but most patients want to keep their natural knee for as long as possible.

A common question is: "Can injections buy me more time?"

The answer is YES. For many patients, strategic injection therapy can delay surgery for months or even years.

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How Do Injections Help Delay Surgery?

Arthritis causes pain through friction and inflammation. Injections target these two problems.

If you can manage the pain and function well, there is no immediate need to operate. We only operate when "pain rules your life." Injections help YOU rule your life again.

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Which Injections Work Best?

1. Hyaluronic Acid (Gel Injections)

• What is it? A thick fluid that mimics natural joint lubricant.
• Effect: It "oils" the gears, reducing friction and shock.
• Delay Potential: Can provide relief for 6 to 12 months. Repeated courses can delay surgery for years in the right candidate.

2. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

• What is it? Growth factors from your own blood.
• Effect: Reduces inflammation and improves joint environment.
• Delay Potential: Studies show PRP can delay surgery significantly in early-to-mid stage arthritis, often better than Gel or Steroids.

3. Corticosteroids

• Effect: Rapid pain relief.
• Delay Potential: Good for short-term delays (e.g., waiting for a family event), but not a long-term strategy.

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When Will Injections STOP Working?

Injections are not magic. They have diminishing returns. They are less likely to work if:

• You have Bone-on-Bone (Stage 4) arthritis.
• Your legs are significantly bowed or knock-kneed.
• You have severe instability.

At this point, spending money on injections is often wasteful, and surgery becomes the more practical solution.

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Takeaway

Injections are a powerful tool to buy time. They allow you to attend weddings, travel, and live life without rushing into the operating room.

However, they are a bridge, not a permanent fix.

Ask Dr. Abhijit Kale if you are a candidate for "Joint Preservation" injections.