Viscosupplementation “Gel” Injections

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint ailment, can profoundly impact the knee, leading to the breakdown and erosion of the cartilage’s surface layer and the compromised lubricating/shock-absorbing ability of the joint’s synovial fluid. This dual deterioration gives rise to pain, stiffness, limited joint movement, and secondary knee inflammation. In initial stages, osteoarthritis of the knee is often addressed with education, lifestyle modification, physical therapy, bracing and pain-alleviating agents like acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroid injections. Nevertheless, these approaches might prove insufficient.

An alternative to pain medication for treating knee osteoarthritis is viscosupplementation, a procedure involving injections of hyaluronic acid aimed at enhancing knee functionality. People affected by osteoarthritis commonly exhibit diminished levels of hyaluronic acid in their joints. This naturally occurring substance in joint fluid serves as a lubricant, facilitating seamless bone movement, and as a cushion, enabling joints to bear weight. This well-studied treatment is FDA approved for knee osteoarthritis and can serve as an option to avoid or delay total knee replacement surgery.

During viscosupplementation, hyaluronic acid is directly injected into the knee joint, typically administered through a series of 1 to 5 injections over the span of several weeks. The advantages of viscosupplementation can include varying levels of:

• Pain reduction
• Enhanced mobility
• Diminished swelling and inflammation
• Sustained effects for several months

Patients may require a few weeks to experience complete alleviation of symptoms following hyaluronic acid injections. Temporary side effects linked to viscosupplementation may include discomfort at the injection site, along with transient swelling, redness, and rash. Additionally, mild bruising around the joint or fluid accumulation within the knee may occur. These reactions are usually transient and of mild intensity. Viscosupplementation proves most efficacious in cases of mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis and may serve as a viable option when conservative treatments fail to elicit the desired response.