Even though there is no known cure for osteoarthritis, certain cutting-edge treatment options are being adopted to combat pain and decrease immobility. The first line of treatment for arthritis includes nonsurgical options like pain relieving drugs, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. OrthoTexas is a group of orthopedic surgeons and physicians in Central Texas, who can get evaluate your condition, and suggest the best treatment options for you. Our orthopedic surgeons have expertise in treating cases of arthritis, making us one of the most trusted names in orthopedic care in the North Texas region.
Viscosupplementation treatment is a widely popular option for the treatment of arthritis, which involves injection of a thick fluid called hyaluronic acid into the knee joint. This fluid occurs naturally in the body, and helps to provide lubrication to the joints, making it an ideal treatment option for arthritis, in which mobility is severely compromised owing to a decrease in the natural lubrication of the joint. You can schedule an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon at OrthoTexas for a clear insight into how this procedure works, and how it can help you to deal with arthritis. Enlisted below are a few facts about viscosupplementation treatment for arthritis, which can help you better understand this treatment option:
- Hyaluronic acid injections do not provide immediate relief from pain.
- You will notice a reduction in pain in the affected joint over the course of a few injections.
- It is advisable to avoid the administration of excessive stress on the joint, such as standing for a long period, jumping, weight bearing, etc. within 48 hours of the injection being administered.
- Once the effect of the injections sets in, it usually lasts for several months. This comes from the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of hyaluronic acid, as well as the stimulating effect that it has on the body’s cells which stimulate the production of the fluid.
Even though there is no scientific evidence to show that viscosupplementation reverses the damage caused to the joint by arthritis, it is highly effective in suppressing the major symptoms associated with the disease. In rare cases, the procedure might result in certain side effects such as a local allergy-like reaction at the site of injection, symptoms of an infection, or bleeding. If you experience any of these side-effects you must contact your doctor immediately. Pain, warmth, and slight swelling immediately after the injection are normal and usually disappear on their own.