Durolane: An effective alternative to steroid knee injections

Knee pain is a common problem that can significantly affect daily life, particularly in people with knee osteoarthritis. For many years, steroid knee injections have been widely used to reduce pain and inflammation. However, steroids are not always suitable or effective for everyone.

Durolane knee injections are an increasingly popular alternative that aim to relieve pain while supporting the knee joint in a different way.

What is durolane?

Durolane is a hyaluronic acid injection used to treat knee pain, most commonly caused by osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in healthy joints, where it acts as a lubricant and shock absorber.

In osteoarthritis, the level and quality of hyaluronic acid in the knee reduces, leading to stiffness, pain and reduced movement. Durolane injections are designed to replace and supplement this lost joint fluid, helping the knee move more smoothly.

Unlike some other viscosupplement injections, Durolane is given as a single knee injection, making it a convenient option for many patients.

How does durolane differ from steroid knee injections?

Steroid injections for knee pain work by reducing inflammation within the joint. While they can provide relatively quick pain relief, the effects are often short-lived. Repeated steroid injections may also be associated with potential downsides, including damage to joint cartilage if used frequently.

Durolane for knee osteoarthritis works differently. Rather than targeting inflammation alone, it focuses on restoring joint lubrication, which may result in longer-lasting symptom relief. Many patients experience benefits for six months or longer, and repeat injections can be given safely if effective.

Durolane does not carry the same concerns around repeated use as steroids, making it a valuable option for people requiring ongoing knee pain management.

Who may benefit from durolane knee injections?

Durolane knee injections may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.
• Have not achieved lasting relief from steroid injections.
• Are unable to receive steroids due to other medical conditions.
• Wish to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.

It may also be considered for active individuals who want to maintain mobility and manage pain without relying on repeated steroid treatments.

A clinical assessment is essential to determine whether Durolane treatment is appropriate.

What happens during a durolane injection?

A Durolane injection is typically performed in a clinic setting and takes only a few minutes. The knee is cleaned thoroughly before the injection is administered directly into the joint. In some cases, ultrasound guidance is used to improve accuracy.

Most patients are able to walk immediately after the procedure and return to normal activities within 24–48 hours, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for a short period.

Durolane offers a well-tolerated and effective alternative to steroid knee injections, particularly for people with knee osteoarthritis seeking longer-lasting relief.

Discussing Durolane knee injections with Dr Rupert Pemsel may be a helpful next step for those whose knee pain is affecting their quality of life.