Osteoarthritis Injections: What Works, What Doesn’t, and What You Need to Know

When your knees, hips, or hands ache from osteoarthritis injections, targeted treatments delivered directly into painful joints to reduce inflammation and improve function. Also known as joint injections, these are often tried after oral pain relievers and physical therapy don’t cut it. They’re not a cure, but for many, they’re a lifeline—buying time, reducing pain, and helping people stay active.

Not all injections are the same. The two most common types are corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory shots that quickly reduce swelling and pain in arthritic joints and hyaluronic acid injections, lubricating fluids that mimic the natural cushioning in healthy joints. Corticosteroids work fast—often within days—but their effects usually fade after a few weeks or months. Hyaluronic acid takes longer to kick in, but for some, relief lasts six months or more. Neither works for everyone, and studies show results vary widely based on joint, severity, and individual biology.

There’s also a third type—platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections—but these are still experimental for osteoarthritis. While some clinics push them as miracle cures, there’s no solid proof they’re better than placebo for most people. The FDA hasn’t approved them for this use, and insurance rarely covers them. Stick with what’s proven: corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid. Even then, they’re not for everyone. If you have diabetes, infection, or thin joint cartilage, your doctor might advise against them.

What you don’t hear much about is how often these injections fail. Up to 40% of people get little to no relief, especially if the joint is severely damaged. That’s why they’re not a first-line fix. They’re part of a bigger plan—alongside weight management, strength training, and activity changes. The best outcomes come when injections are paired with real movement, not just waiting for the next shot.

Side effects are rare but real. A flare-up of pain right after the shot is common—it’s not an allergy, just a reaction to the needle or fluid. Infection is rare, but serious. That’s why sterile technique matters. And repeated steroid shots? They can weaken tendons and cartilage over time. Most doctors limit them to 3–4 times a year per joint.

What you’ll find in the articles below isn’t hype. It’s real talk about what these injections can and can’t do. You’ll see how they compare to other treatments, what the latest research says about their long-term use, and how to tell if they’re worth trying for your specific case. No fluff. No marketing. Just clear, practical info from people who’ve been there.