Injection Preventing Knee Pain due to Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative, progressive disease. Osteoarthritis of the knee can be due to excessive wear and tear on the knee joint, aging, heredity, traumatic injury, weight gain and repetitive stress injuries.
The knee joint is lubricated by synovial fluid, which contains hyaluronic acid and acts as the knee shock absorber. With osteoarthritis hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid doesn’t work as well to lubricate the joint. Cartilage surface of the knee becomes thinner, which then increases irritation and inflammation that may increase pain and lead to swelling and stiffness of the knee. FDA approved medication which contains hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is basically a joint fluid. Medication (Euflexxa, ORTHOVISC, SUPARTZ FX …) are indicated in the treatment of the pain in osteoarthritis in the patient who have failed to respond adequately to conservative non-pharmacologic therapy and other medications. These injections to the knee help to restore the joint fluid that cushions, protects and lubricates your knee joints.
After injection high-impact activities are not recommended for 48 hours. Risk of infection after injection is low, the risk of reaction to medication is low.
Procedures should be performed every 6-12 months to prevent the progression of arthritis. These injection covered by all insurances and Medicare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Injection Preventing Knee Pain due to Arthritis
What is Orthovisc (High Molecular Weight Hyaluronan)?
Orthovisc is a brand of viscosupplementation used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA). It is a sterile, non-surgical solution injected directly into the knee joint. The active ingredient, high molecular weight hyaluronan, is similar to the substance that occurs naturally in healthy joint fluid.
How does Orthovisc work in the knee?
In an arthritic knee, the natural lubricating fluid (synovial fluid) breaks down, making the joint less protected. Orthovisc acts as a lubricant and shock absorber to supplement the joint fluid, reduce friction, and potentially decrease pain and inflammation.
Who is a candidate for Orthovisc injections?
You are generally a candidate if you have knee OA and have not received adequate pain relief from conservative, non-pharmacologic treatments like simple pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen), exercise, and physical therapy.
Is Orthovisc a steroid (corticosteroid)?
No. Orthovisc is not a steroid. It is a hyaluronic acid injection. Unlike steroids, which primarily reduce inflammation, Orthovisc is intended to restore the lubricating and shock-absorbing properties of the joint fluid.
How long does the pain relief from Orthovisc last?
Clinical studies show that the beneficial effects of an Orthovisc series can last for up to six months (26 weeks). The duration of relief can vary based on the severity of your OA and your activity level.
