At SamWell Institute for Pain Management, where Dr. Jay M. Shah and Dr. Kevin Ko work to reduce pain stemming from a wide range of conditions, one of our most effective treatments for joint pain is viscosupplementation.
This minimally invasive therapy has been gaining popularity among patients experiencing joint issues, particularly those with osteoarthritis. But who exactly would benefit most from this treatment? And how does it work?
Here, we explore viscosupplementation, its science, benefits, and how to determine if you're a good candidate for this therapy.
Viscosupplementation is an injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) that alleviates pain in the joints, most commonly the knees. HA is a naturally occurring substance in your joints that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, allowing your bones to move smoothly.
When joint conditions like arthritis occur, the level of hyaluronic acid in the joint decreases, making movement more difficult and painful. Viscosupplementation replenishes the hyaluronic acid, potentially restoring joint comfort and function.
Viscosupplementation is most commonly used to treat knee osteoarthritis, but it can also be helpful for other joint issues. This therapy is FDA-approved for knee treatments, but some providers may use it off-label for conditions in the hips, shoulders, or wrists.
Specific conditions that benefit from this treatment include:
Dr. Shah and Dr. Ko use advanced imaging techniques like fluoroscopy and ultrasound to ensure they inject the hyaluronic acid precisely where it’s needed.
The science behind viscosupplementation lies in restoring the lubricating and cushioning properties of your joint’s fluid.
First, the HA injection improves viscosity, mimicking the properties of healthy synovial fluid.
Second, the HA restores your joint’s shock absorption abilities, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Over time, the HA may even have mild anti-inflammatory effects, although its primary role is lubrication.
While the effects aren’t usually immediate, patients often begin to notice reduced pain and improved function after completing a series of three to five weekly injections.
Though viscosupplementation is a promising therapy, it isn’t the right fit for everyone. The best candidates generally meet the following criteria:
Especially those who haven’t found sufficient relief from over-the-counter pain relievers or physical therapy.
If surgery, like joint replacement, isn’t immediately necessary, viscosupplementation can serve as an interim solution.
If you have gastrointestinal issues, allergies, or other contraindications for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, viscosupplementation provides an effective alternative.
This therapy can also benefit younger individuals with early signs of joint problems who want to maintain an active lifestyle.
Dr. Shah and Dr. Ko generally don’t recommend viscosupplementation if you have the following issues:
If you’re unsure whether you’re a candidate, don’t worry; we carefully evaluate your medical history, current symptoms, and imaging studies to determine if viscosupplementation is right for you.
Viscosupplementation is a great option when more conservative methods, such as exercise therapy, weight loss, or painkillers, haven’t provided the relief you need. It’s particularly valuable for individuals who want to remain active but experience pain during daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or bending.
If joint stiffness and pain interfere with your life, viscosupplementation could be the solution you’re looking for. Call SamWell Institute for Pain Management, or schedule your consultation online to discover how viscosupplementation can help support your active, pain-free lifestyle.
