Viscosupplementation

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.

Understanding Bone-on-Bone Knees Bone-on-bone is a condition whereby osteoarthritis has progressed to advanced stages resulting in the cartilage thinning out excessively. As a result, there is limited cushioning on the knee joint causing the bones to rub against each other. Bone-on-bone knees often cause excruciating knee pain, inflammation, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Living with these symptoms can be daunting. If you’re seeking a non-surgical treatment option for managing bone-on-bone knee pain, you may be wondering if gel shots help with bone-on-bone knees. Good news: yes, and they work quite well. Many of our patients have bone-on-bone knees and report excellent pain relief. Every person is different, so how long the results last varies from patient to patient. Some patients get long-lasting results with 3-5 series of gel injections. On the other hand, some patients have to repeat the gel injections every 6 months for sustainable results. But think of it like this: would you rather change your oil every six months (knee gel injections) or wait until the engine doesn’t run anymore and get a new one (knee replacement surgery)? Insurance also covers this procedure every 6 months, so the financial impact is negligible! There are steps you can take after an osteoarthritis diagnosis to begin pain mitigation. How do Knee Gel Injections Work? In a knee with osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid breaks down, making it less effective. The hyaluronic acid injection helps it behave like normal synovial fluid. Viscosupplementation is a medical procedure used to treat osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee joint. It involves injecting a gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid into the joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions the joint. In osteoarthritis, the hyaluronic acid becomes thinner and less effective at lubricating the joint, leading to pain and stiffness. By injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint, Viscosupplementation aims to restore the normal viscosity and lubricating properties of the synovial fluid, thereby reducing pain and improving joint function. Benefits of Gel Injections for Bone-on-Bone Knees Pain Relief: Gel injections can significantly reduce pain associated with bone-on-bone knees. Improved Mobility: By lubricating the joint, these injections can enhance flexibility and range of motion. Non-Invasive: Gel injections are a minimally invasive procedure with minimal recovery time. Cost-Effective: Compared to surgical interventions, gel injections offer a more affordable treatment option. Considering Gel Injections? If you’re struggling with bone-on-bone knee pain, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if gel injections are right for you. At the Joint Relief Institute, our doctors will provide a full examination of your knee and recommend the best treatment option for you, even if that means recommending knee surgery. We want what’s best for our patients. 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 By understanding the benefits and limitations of gel injections, you can make informed decisions about your treatment options and work towards a pain-free, active lifestyle.

What are Knee Gel Injections? Knee gel injections, also known as Viscosupplementation, are a common treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. They involve injecting a lubricating substance, like hyaluronic acid, into the knee joint to reduce pain and improve mobility. Hyaluronic acid injections replenishes the joint’s natural lubricant. While effective, these injections aren’t a permanent solution and may need to be repeated. Potential side effects include temporary pain and swelling, but serious complications are rare. 9 out of 10 patients report instant pain relief after a knee gel injection at the Joint Relief Institute. The Cost of Knee Gel Injections The cost of knee gel injections can vary depending on several factors, including: Geographic location: Costs can differ between regions and healthcare providers. Number of injections: A typical course of treatment involves multiple injections. Insurance coverage: Insurance plans have varying levels of coverage for this procedure. Does Medicare Cover Knee Gel Injections? Yes, Medicare covers knee gel injections for treating osteoarthritis if they are deemed medically necessary by your doctor. This includes coverage for the injections, as well as the evaluation and guidance imaging (such as fluoroscopy) used to ensure accurate placement of the gel. Patients with Medicare Supplement plans may have little to no out-of-pocket costs. Always check with your healthcare provider and Medicare plan to confirm specific coverage details. For help discovering your coverage options, reach out to our office. Does Private Insurance Cover Knee Gel Injections? Good news, we’re in network with many private insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Health Care and Humana Gold Plus. Many private insurance plans cover knee gel injections, but coverage can vary widely. Factors that influence coverage include: Plan specifics: Different plans have different policies regarding coverage for this procedure. Medical necessity: Insurance providers sometimes require documentation of the severity of osteoarthritis and proof that other conservative treatments have been tried. Pre-authorization: Some plans may require pre-authorization before the procedure can be performed. Knee Gel Injection Cost without Insurance Depending on your location and options, the out of pocket costs for knee gel injections can range from around $1,000 to $2,500 for a series. Every patient and every insurance situation is unique so we offer a complimentary insurance review when you come to our office so you know exactly what your out of pocket costs may be before starting treatment. The Joint Relief Institute offers monthly payment options (some with 0% financing options) so you have affordable options to relieve knee pain even without insurance. Contact our office to get all of your options and get on the road to pain relief today! Joint Relief Institute and Insurance Coverage At the Joint Relief Institute, we understand the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare. We work with most major insurance providers, including Medicare. Our insurance specialists can quickly verify your coverage and answer any questions you may have. 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 By understanding the costs and insurance coverage associated with knee gel injections, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.