Knee aching on the stairs or stiff after sitting? Dr. Kelly Robertson, ND, now offers ultrasound-guided knee injections in Parksville at Parksville Wellness Collective. She sees patients from Parksville, Nanaimo, and Qualicum Beach. Here is what the injections involve, which options exist, and how to tell whether one is worth asking about.
Ultrasound-guided knee injections in Parksville: how they work
Dr. Robertson uses ultrasound to see inside your knee in real time and guide the needle into the joint. The scan takes a few minutes and uses no radiation.
Why use ultrasound guidance?
Ultrasound guidance has research behind it. It places the needle in the joint more reliably than landmarks alone. A 2024 meta-analysis of randomized trials also found better outcomes in osteoarthritis with ultrasound-guided injections. Written by Chris Thom +2
The scan also shows swelling or fluid in the joint. Watching the needle on screen helps her steer clear of sensitive structures.
Is a knee injection right for you?
A knee injection may help if you have osteoarthritis or a swollen, stiff knee. It may also help if pain limits walking, stairs, or sports.
That said, not everyone needs an injection. Sometimes the assessment points to exercise or other care first, and Dr. Robertson will tell you so.
Major arthritis guidelines strongly recommend exercise and self-management programs for knee osteoarthritis. An injection is one piece of that plan, not a replacement for it. bcbsm
One exception: get urgent medical care if your knee is hot, red, and very swollen, especially with a fever. Do the same if you cannot put weight on it after an injury.
Injection options for knee osteoarthritis
Which option fits depends on your diagnosis, your goals, and what you have already tried.
Corticosteroid (cortisone)
Cortisone calms inflammation during painful flare-ups. Relief often lasts weeks to months.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid supplements the knee’s natural joint fluid to help it move more smoothly.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
PRP uses concentrated platelets from your own blood. Growing research suggests it may help some people with knee osteoarthritis, though results vary. For a closer look, read our comparison of PRP vs hyaluronic acid for knee pain.
Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy uses a sugar-based dextrose solution that may reduce pain and improve function over a series of treatments.
Joint aspiration
If your knee is swollen, aspiration drains the excess fluid to ease pressure and stiffness.
What to expect at your visit
1. Assessment. Dr. Robertson reviews your history, examines your knee, and scans it with ultrasound.
2. Treatment plan. Together you decide what fits your knee and your goals. That may include an injection, exercise, or other care.
3. Injection. If you go ahead, Dr. Robertson cleans the skin and guides the needle into the joint in real time. It takes just a few minutes.
4. Aftercare. Aftercare depends on the injection. Dr. Robertson will go over what to expect with you after your treatment.
5. Follow-up. She checks your progress and recommends exercises to keep you moving.
Common questions about knee injections
Does it hurt?
Most people feel a brief pinch and some pressure.
When will I feel better?
It depends on the injection and on you. Some soreness for a day or two is common. Dr. Robertson will let you know what to expect after your treatment.
Will an injection fix my arthritis?
No. Injections do not reverse osteoarthritis, but they may ease pain so you can stay active. Exercise remains a core part of care.
Do I need a referral for ultrasound-guided knee injections in Parksville?
No. You can book an assessment directly. That visit comes first, so Dr. Robertson can decide whether an injection is appropriate for your knee.
Are knee injections covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Some extended health plans may cover certain injections, including corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid. Others may not cover injection therapies at all. Check your benefits before booking.
Book a knee assessment in Parksville
Ready to find out whether ultrasound-guided knee injections in Parksville are right for you? Book an assessment with Dr. Kelly Robertson, ND, at Parksville Wellness Collective. You can read about her approach on the pain management page or see every option on the injection therapies page.
This article is general information, not personal medical advice.