Have Knee Pain? Call Knee Centers in Newport Beach for Help

An Overview of Viscosupplementation

Last updated 9 months ago

Human knee problem with highlighted area

Osteoarthritis in the knee is a highly common cause for pain and immobility in aging individuals. As the joint becomes worn down from normal activity, there is a reduction of the padding within the joint to reduce friction as it moves. One type of therapy that can be an effective component of your treatment plan to manage knee pain is viscosupplementation, which works through non-surgical injections. Here are some details about the therapy so you can understand exactly what it will offer to your treatment:

Treatment duration: Viscosupplementation offers pain relief that can last from six to twenty four months. Injections will be given in a series of three to five shots, which are administered on a weekly basis. As the injections have time to work, you will experience significant improvement in pain and greater comfort in everyday activities. While pain is managed through this therapy, physical therapy may be used to strengthen the muscles in the knee for longer-term relief.
Injection contents: The injections used in viscosupplementation therapy contain hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in high concentrations in the joints. Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricating cushion for the joint, and osteoarthritis causes it to deplete. When injections are given that contain hyaluronic acid, the pain relief is not immediate. Instead, there is a gradual improvement in the knee that is provided by the restoration of cushioning in the joint.
Safety: The FDA has approved viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis pain in the knee, as the treatment is effective while having minimal side effects for the patient. There may be some reaction to the injections like slight swelling or a warming sensation in the knee, but these will subside quickly.

Discover the benefits of viscosupplementation as part of a comprehensive personalized treatment plan at your local Knee Centers. We have locations in Fremont, Newport Beach, and South Bay to conveniently serve you. Contact us online or give us a call at (949) 391-4315 to schedule an initial consultation with us.