Viscosupplementation Injection
Viscosupplementation is a procedure for patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. A natural lubrication fluid called synovial fluid resides in each joint, including the knee. Hyaluronic acid, which functions to lubricate, or grease, your joints during movement, exists naturally in the synovial fluid. As you get older, the chemicals in hyaluronic acid begin breaking down, and your levels of hyaluronic acid decrease. Lower levels of the natural lubricant may limit joint motion and eventually cause pain and stiffness in the joint. A viscosupplement injection replaces the missing hyaluronic acid in your synovial fluid. This temporarily increases the knee’s ability to move without causing you pain or discomfort.
Please play video for a more detailed understanding for what to expect during the procedure.
Please pay close attention to the following information/instructions:
PRE-OP:
You have been scheduled for a viscosupplement (knee) injection, which is useful to treat knee pain. This injection is administered in our office in a regular exam room. Depending on the product used, you will receive one to five shots over several weeks.
During the procedure, if there is any swelling in your knee, your doctor will remove (aspirate) the excess fluids before injecting the hyaluronic acid.
You will be receiving an injection of local anesthetic and /or corticosteroids. There are many different injectable medications available for specific conditions. Please inform us if you have had any prior allergic reactions to the above-listed medications.
You may have food and/or beverages prior to your injection. You may eat and drink immediately following your injection.
If you take routine medications, you may take these on the day of your injection as scheduled.
If you are on any blood thinning medications, please notify our office. You may need to temporarily stop blood thinning medications for a few days prior to your appointment.
POST-OP:
For the first 48 hours after the shot, you should avoid excessive weight bearing on the leg, such as standing for long periods, jogging or heavy lifting. If you have soreness in the area of the injection such as pain, warmth, and slight swelling immediately after the shot. These symptoms generally do not last long, apply an ice pack to help ease the pain.
You can continue your regular diet and medications immediately, but do not do any rigorous activity for 48 hours after your injection. Take it easy.
The Viscosupplement Injection treatments are relatively safe and low-risk procedure. However, some people may experience certain side effects and/or complications from this treatment. It is advised to discuss the potential risk of developing any adverse reactions or side effects of these injections with a doctor prior to this treatment.
Please feel free to make an appointment to discuss with your Doctor if you are a candidate for these services or contact one of our care representatives with questions at 315-451-5400.