What is Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation has been studied as a treatment option for osteoarthritis since the 1970s. It was first used in Europe and Asia. Viscosupplementation therapy is an appropriate treatment for people with osteoarthritis of the knee that has failed to respond to more conservative therapy. During the procedure, a solution of hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the knee joint to restore the cushioning and lubricating properties of normal joint fluid.
Symptoms and side effects of viscosupplementation:
Common side effects associated with viscosupplementation include temporary injection site pain, local swelling, heat, redness, rash, itching, bruising, or an accumulation of fluid in the injected joint. Typically, the side effects are mild and of short duration. Serious reactions are considered rare, but may include allergic reaction, infection, or bleeding.
Who Benefits from Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation is ideal for patients with mild to moderate Osteoarthritis of the knee. It may be especially useful for patients who have not responded to other OA treatments, such as physical therapy, weight loss, pain relievers, and corticosteroid injections. Patients with severe OA, especially those who have bone-to-bone contact in their knee joint, will likely not benefit from viscosupplement injections and will instead need more aggressive treatment, such as surgery or joint replacement.
It is important to note that everyone’s bodies respond differently. The benefits of viscosupplementation injections are not immediate. Since the injections are given over time, you may begin to feel some benefit after the first injection, but the greatest benefit may not be felt until several weeks after your first injection.
If you think you are a candidate for viscosupplementation request an appointment with Dr. Bill Hefley at (800) 336-2412.
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