Introduction

Knee gel injections have become an increasingly popular choice for people in the UK living with osteoarthritis. These injections, which often contain hyaluronic acid, work by lubricating and cushioning the knee joint, helping to ease pain and improve movement. Despite their potential benefits, many patients struggle to access this treatment through the NHS due to funding restrictions and limited availability. As a result, an increasing number of people are turning to private healthcare providers. This article aims to guide you through how to access private knee gel injections in the UK, explaining the process, what to consider, and what to expect along the way.

Why Knee Gel Injections Aren’t Available on the NHS

At present, knee gel injections are rarely offered on the NHS. This is mainly because national guidelines question their cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits for osteoarthritis treatment. While some patients may find relief from these injections, the NHS typically focuses on treatments backed by strong evidence showing lasting effectiveness and good value. This means knee gel injections are often not part of routine NHS care for osteoarthritis.

The NHS does, however, provide other treatment options such as physiotherapy, pain relief medication, and in severe cases, surgery. But for those specifically interested in knee gel injections, private healthcare is usually the only viable option. Knowing this helps explain why private clinics offering these treatments are becoming increasingly sought after.

How to Find and Choose a Reputable Private Provider

If you are considering private knee gel injections, it’s important to find a trustworthy clinic. A good place to start is by checking online physician directories and clinic websites, which should list the qualifications of their specialists. Recommendations from friends, family, or your GP can also be very helpful.

There are several types of knee gel injections available today, and the evidence supporting them is continually evolving. For instance, recent research found that polyacrylamide hydrogel—sometimes known by its brand name Arthrosamid—"offers comparable short-term efficacy and modest advantage at 6 months. However, long-term superiority is limited." This means that while it can be a valuable treatment option for some, the benefits may vary from person to person and might not last indefinitely. Therefore, when researching providers, ask which type of injection they offer and whether it suits your specific needs.

Other factors to consider include checking if the clinic is properly registered, the experience and qualifications of the consultants, and what previous patients have said about their care. Don’t hesitate to ask about the safety of the injections, how effective they usually are, and any possible risks. Being informed and asking the right questions will help you make a confident decision.

Preparing for Your Private Appointment and What to Expect

Getting ready for your first private consultation will make the process smoother. Bring along your medical history, any previous treatment records, and scan reports if you have them. Jot down any questions you want to ask so you don’t forget during the appointment.

During the consultation, the specialist will examine your knee and discuss your symptoms and goals. They will explain whether hyaluronic acid injections or alternatives like polyacrylamide hydrogel are suitable for you. Research also suggests that polyacrylamide hydrogel "may be a complementary option in individualized osteoarthritis management," especially where other treatments have limited success. Your consultant will tell you how the procedure is done and what to expect during and after the injection. This is your opportunity to raise any concerns and get a clear understanding of the benefits and potential side effects.

Costs, Consultation, and Follow-Up: What to Expect in Private Care

Understanding the cost is vital when considering private treatment. Fees will vary depending on the clinic, the specialist, and the number of treatment sessions you need. Typically, you will pay for an initial consultation, and then a separate fee for each injection.

Many clinics offer packages that include follow-up appointments and aftercare advice, helping you track your progress. Multiple sessions may be recommended to get the best results, so it’s worth discussing the full treatment plan and costs upfront. Transparency is key—make sure you get a detailed quote and know exactly what is included, so you can avoid surprises later on.

Conclusion: Key Considerations for Patients

To sum up, knee gel injections are rarely accessible through the NHS, making private treatment the main route for many people in the UK. Choosing a reputable provider, preparing well for your appointments, and understanding costs and aftercare are crucial steps in this journey.

It’s also important to talk through all your treatment options with your healthcare professional before making a decision. While navigating private healthcare can feel overwhelming, being well-informed and proactive will help you make the best choices for your knee health and overall wellbeing.

References

Cole, A., Maulana, R. K., Whitehead, J. P., & Lee, P. Y. F. (2022). A systematic review of the novel compound Arthrosamid polyacrylamide (PAAG) hydrogel for treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Medical Research Archives, 10(8). https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v10i8.2950
Bliddal, H., Beier, J., Hartkopp, A., Conaghan, P. G., & Henriksen, M. (2023). Polyacrylamide hydrogel versus hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis: A subgroup analysis of a randomized study. Orthopaedic Proceedings, 105-B(SUPP_13), 81–81. https://doi.org/10.1302/1358-992x.2023.13.081
Aykaç, B., Dinç, M., Nar, Ö. O., Karasu, R., & Bayrak, H. Ç. (2025). Comparative efficacy of polyacrylamide hydrogel versus hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in knee osteoarthritis: A retrospective cohort study. Medicine, 104(38), e44655. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000044655