Viscosupplementation is a treatment that involves injecting hyaluronic acid into a joint, usually the knee, to ease pain caused by osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the fluid that lubricates joints. As osteoarthritis progresses, this fluid breaks down, leading to increased friction and pain in the joint. A hyaluronic acid injection helps restore lubrication and cushioning. It’s often recommended when other treatments, like physical therapy or medication, aren’t providing enough relief.
Here’s who can benefit from viscosupplementation injections:
This treatment can help manage pain and improve joint function.
A hyaluronic acid injection works by replenishing the natural hyaluronic acid in your joints, especially when it’s been reduced by conditions like osteoarthritis. This substance acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping the joint move smoothly. Over time, osteoarthritis wears down the joint fluid, causing pain and stiffness. Viscosupplementation therapy is injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint to restore this lost fluid, reducing friction and inflammation. This helps people get back to their daily activities.
Here’s how a hyaluronic acid injection procedure generally goes:
The doctor first cleans the injection area with disinfectants like alcohol or iodine.
If there’s fluid in the joint, the doctor may aspirate (remove) it before proceeding.
A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area and make the procedure painless.
The injection of hyaluronic acid (sometimes combined with a steroid) is then administered directly into the joint, often using ultrasound for better accuracy.
After the injection, the area is cleaned and band aid applied.
Patients are advised to rest the joint for 12-24 hours and avoid strenuous activities for a couple of days.
Here are the benefits of viscosupplementation:
These benefits make viscosupplementation a popular choice for managing arthritis.
Here are some potential side effects of hyaluronic acid (ha) injections:
These side effects are generally mild and go away on their own. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to contact your doctor.
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Whether you’re dealing with arthritis or searching for sciatica pain relief, Dr. Tymouch is fully committed to providing genuine care that works best for you. Ready to say goodbye to arthritis pain? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step to a pain-free life!
Viscosupplementation is a medical procedure that involves injecting hyaluronic acid into a joint, typically the knee, to help improve the quality of the joint’s natural fluid. This treatment is used to relieve pain and improve mobility, particularly in patients with osteoarthritis or other joint conditions where the cartilage has worn down.
The effects of viscosupplementation can vary depending on the individual, but typically, patients experience relief from joint pain for 6 to 12 months. The longevity of the results can be influenced by factors like the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.
Patients who are allergic to hyaluronic acid or have an infection in the joint should avoid this treatment. Additionally, those with bleeding disorders or certain medical conditions may need to consult their doctor to determine if viscosupplementation is safe for them.
The procedure is minimally invasive and is usually well-tolerated. Some patients may feel slight discomfort during the injection, but local anesthesia can be used to minimize pain. After the injection, mild swelling or soreness may occur but typically subsides quickly.
The number of sessions varies depending on the patient’s condition and the severity of their symptoms. In many cases, viscosupplementation is administered as a series of 3 to 5 injections over several weeks. Your healthcare provider will determine the best course of treatment for you.
• Arthritis
• Back and Neck Pain
• Knees, Hips and Other Joints Pain
• Muscle Pain
• Headaches
• Shingles
• Post-Surgical Pain
• Neuropathic Pain
• Sciatica
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome