Hyaluronic acid injections are used when other treatments such as non-prescription and prescription pain relievers, physical therapy, and steroid injections have proven unsuccessful or no longer effective.
Viscosupplementation Treatment for Knee Arthritis
Over time, whether due to age or repetitive impact from daily activities, the cartilage and natural lubricants in the knees decrease significantly. This impacts the knees’ ability to serve as natural "shock absorbers" and results in painful arthritis. In severe cases, there may be bone-on-bone contact, but even in the early stages of deterioration, the loss of the joint fluid can cause significant pain and swelling.
When other treatments such as non-prescription and prescription pain relievers, physical therapy, and steroid injections have proven unsuccessful or no longer effective, knee viscosupplementation can alleviate pain and stiffness for many months. Viscosupplementation is also known as a hyaluronic acid injection, a procedure that replenishes the joint’s normal lubricating fluid.
The Science Behind Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the synovial fluid of the joints, responsible for lubrication and shock absorption. As arthritis progresses, the concentration of hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to joint stiffness, inflammation, and pain. By injecting a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid directly into the knee joint, viscosupplementation helps restore the lost lubrication, improving joint movement and reducing discomfort.
Scientific studies have shown that hyaluronic acid injections can stimulate the body’s natural production of synovial fluid, further enhancing the joint’s ability to cushion impacts. Additionally, this treatment has been found to have mild anti-inflammatory effects, which can further contribute to pain relief and improved knee function.
How is Viscosupplementation Performed?
The pain specialist will perform an injection of a synthetic substance that is similar to the body’s joint fluid into the knee joint. Depending on the indication and medication selected, injections may vary from a one-time treatment to a repeated injection once per week for three to five consecutive weeks. You will be directed to take it easy for the first two days following each injection, but can resume normal activities after that.
This well-tolerated regimen can provide knee pain relief that may delay the need for other more invasive surgical options.
Benefits of Viscosupplementation
- Upon completion of the initial round of therapy, many patients report pain relief and reduced stiffness that lasts up to six months. Some people even note relief after their first injection.
- Many patients find they can reduce their use of other pain medications.
- Retreatment may be possible after six months.
- The procedure is performed in our state-of-the-art facilities by our highly-trained staff.
- When used to treat early-stage knee deterioration, this minimally invasive procedure can help prevent additional damage to the knee joint.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid injections provide an effective, minimally invasive option for individuals suffering from knee pain due to arthritis. By restoring lost joint lubrication, this treatment can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay the need for more invasive procedures like surgery. Many patients experience long-term relief, allowing them to return to their daily activities with greater comfort. If knee pain is limiting your lifestyle, viscosupplementation may be a valuable solution to help restore function and enhance your quality of life.
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in Richmond Hill – Queens, and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Queens office at (718) 215-1888 or (516) 419-4480 for the Long Island office to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialists, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko or Dr. Sonny Ahluwalia.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
