
The 2021 Orthopedic Review journal states that “Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in the United States, affecting 54.4 million, or 22.7% of the adult population. The knee is the most common joint affected in OA, with up to 41% involvement.”
Viscosupplementation is a medical treatment primarily used to alleviate arthritis pain in the knee joint, although it is also applied to other joints. FullRange Spine & Ortho in Los Angeles offers this solution for patients suffering from osteoarthritis.
Nature’s Lubricating Liquid: Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, particularly found in connective tissues, skin and synovial fluid, where it serves as a lubricant for joints. In healthy joints, HA contributes to the shock-absorbing properties of synovial fluid, which facilitates smooth movement between cartilage surfaces. However, in individuals with osteoarthritis, the natural levels of HA decrease, leading to increased friction, inflammation and pain.
The Mechanism of Viscosupplementation
Viscosupplementation involves injecting a gel-like form of hyaluronic acid into the affected joint. The objective is to improve the joint environment by:
- Restoring Lubrication: The injected HA increases the viscosity of the synovial fluid, enabling better lubrication of the joint surfaces. This can help reduce friction during movement.
- Shock Absorption: The gel-like consistency of HA helps absorb mechanical shocks, protecting the cartilage from further wear and tear.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest that HA might modulate inflammatory processes in the joint. By reducing the inflammatory response, patients may experience less pain and improved function.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine affirms that “the anti-inflammatory, anabolic and chondroprotective actions of hyaluronic acid in viscosupplementation reduce pain and improve patient function.”
What to Expect in a Viscosupplementation Procedure
Viscosupplementation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The steps usually include:
- Preparation: The affected area is cleaned and, if necessary, numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Injection: Your FullRange Spine & Ortho provider administers the HA into the joint space using a fine needle. This usually takes only a few minutes.
- Post-Injection Care: Patients may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a short period following the procedure.
Why Should I Consider Viscosupplementation for OA?
Many patients report significant relief from joint pain following viscosupplementation. Benefits include:
- Reduced Pain: Patients often experience a decrease in pain levels, allowing for improved mobility and quality of life.
- Less Invasive: Compared to surgical options, viscosupplementation is less invasive, with a relatively quick recovery time.
- Adjunct Therapy: It can be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy or pain management strategies.
This innovative treatment is common for OA knee pain, but it can also be an effective treatment for the hips, shoulders and ankles.
Los Angeles Viscosupplementation
Viscosupplementation represents an innovative approach to managing osteoarthritis-related joint pain, particularly in the knee. While it is not a cure for osteoarthritis, it offers a valuable option for those seeking to improve their joint health and regain their quality of life. Contact FullRange Spine & Ortho today to explore whether viscosupplementation is the right choice for your unique situation.
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho