Viscosupplementation Injections: Effective Relief for Knee Osteoarthritis?

Understanding Viscosupplementation

Viscosupplementation injections, also known as hyaluronic acid injections, are a non-surgical treatment option for knee osteoarthritis. This procedure involves injecting a gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid into the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid, which lubricates and cushions the joint. In osteoarthritis, the breakdown of cartilage reduces the efficiency of synovial fluid, leading to pain and stiffness.

Benefits of Viscosupplementation

Studies have shown promising results for Viscosupplementation in treating knee osteoarthritis:

• Knee Pain Relief: A 2014 study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that viscosupplementation offered pain relief and improved knee function by up to 70% compared to a placebo group.
• Reduced Medication Use: Viscosupplementation can help decrease the reliance on pain medications such as opioid analgesics and NSAIDs.
• Improved Knee Function: A 2023 Cochrane review highlighted the positive impact of Viscosupplementation on physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
• Delaying Joint Replacement: Viscosupplementation may delay or even avoid the need for total knee replacement surgery in some cases.

Effectiveness of Viscosupplementation

It’s important to note that the success rate of Viscosupplementation can vary depending on individual factors like:

• Severity of Osteoarthritis: Patients with less severe osteoarthritis are more likely to experience more significant improvement with injections but we’ve found patients with bone-on-bone arthritis still report noticeable pain relief.
• Overall Health: Underlying health conditions can influence the effectiveness of the treatment.

Potential Side Effects of Viscosupplementation

While generally safe, Viscosupplementation injections can cause some side effects:

• Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site: These symptoms are typically mild and temporary.
• Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions are rare.

Who is a Candidate for Viscosupplementation?

If you are experiencing knee pain and stiffness due to osteoarthritis, your doctor will determine if Viscosupplementation is an appropriate treatment option for you. They may consider factors like the severity of your pain, the degree of cartilage breakdown, and your response to other conservative treatments.

Considering Viscosupplementation?

Contact Us Today

To learn more about knee gel injections, their costs, and insurance coverage, please contact us:

• Chicago Office: (708) 722-7514
• Edina (Minneapolis) Office: (952) 214-4278

Discuss the potential benefits and risks of Viscosupplementation injections with your doctor to determine if it’s the right course of action for your knee pain.