If knee or shoulder pain has quietly taken over your days — the stiff first steps each morning, the railing you now reach for, the walks and rounds of golf you've started skipping — you are far from alone. Millions of older adults live with worn, arthritic joints. And for many of them, the advice has long been the same: live with it, or consider surgery.
But a growing number of Chicago-area patients are choosing a third path. At the Joint Relief Institute (JRI), a quick in-office injection is helping people ease joint pain and stay mobile — without a scalpel, a hospital stay, or months of recovery.
“Surgery isn't the only option. Most patients are surprised how simple the alternative can be.”
— The JRI Medical TeamHow it works
Think of it as an oil change for your joint
A healthy joint glides on a natural lubricant. With age or arthritis, that cushioning breaks down, and bone begins to grind against bone — the source of so much daily ache. The JRI treatment restores some of that lost lubrication with a natural, FDA-approved gel, injected directly into the joint.
The visit is short — about 20 minutes — and the area is numbed first, so most patients feel only mild pressure. Using live digital imaging and a double-confirmation technique, the doctor places the gel precisely where it's needed. Then you get up and walk out.
Why it exists
A doctor who saw a better way
After watching patients struggle through the long, difficult recovery that can follow joint-replacement surgery, Dr. Hana founded JRI in 2015 with a single goal: give people a genuine, non-surgical alternative — and help them get their mobility back.
“I started JRI to help patients restore their freedom and live without joint pain — without going under the knife.”
— Dr. Michael Hana, FounderWhat to expect
Relief in four simple steps
1We numb the areaA gentle local numbing keeps you comfortable from start to finish.
2We guide with live imagingDigital imaging and double confirmation pinpoint the exact spot.
3We place the gelA natural joint lubricant is injected precisely where it's needed.
4You walk outNo hospital stay, no downtime — most patients return to their day.
In their words
What patients are saying
“I kept putting off knee surgery. After visiting JRI, I'm moving more comfortably than I have in years — and I was back home the same afternoon.”
“The team explained everything and there was no pressure at all. My shoulder feels looser and I'm sleeping through the night again.”
“They checked my Medicare coverage before anything else. Quick, kind, and I walked right out. I'm back to gardening and chasing the grandkids.”
Coverage & cost
Will Medicare or my insurance cover it?
For eligible patients, this treatment may be covered by Medicare and many private plans. Out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, so before you commit to anything, the JRI team will verify your benefits for you — at no charge — and explain exactly what to expect.
Medicare & many major insurers
We accept Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and many private plans. We'll confirm yours before you book.
Good to know