What is Viscosupplementation for Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

A process that relies on a series of injections into the knee joints with hyaluronic acid, Viscosupplementation is a newly available option for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

The use of hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid, hylan), has been proved for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee for patients who have failed treatment with acetaminophen (aspirin). The drug is given as a series of weekly injections directly into the affected knee joint, called viscosupplementation, over three to five weeks.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial (joint) fluid. It acts as a lubricant and enables bones to move smoothly over each other. It also serves as a shock absorber for joint loads like weight, heavy lifting, hard impact exercising, sports, and similar endeavors. Without the aid of this fluid, your bones' ability to function decreases as they begin to grate against each other, causing swelling and pain; this in turn amplifies arthritis.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally created by your body, but in some cases, your body loses its ability to produce this necessary fluid. People with osteoarthritis have a lower concentration of hyaluronic acid in their joints than normal, and this can cause painful suffering. Viscosupplementation may be an excellent way for individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee to alleviate their pain.

There are no immediate pain relieving effects of hyaluronic acid, but over a long period of time, you will find that it does have a pain-lessening effect. Pain, warmth, or slight swelling may occur immediately after the shot, but it doesn't normally last long. An ice pack will help if you feel any of these conditions. Avoid putting excessive weight on the leg, like standing, heavy lifting, or jogging for long periods of time, as this can exacerbate swelling or pain.

You will have less pain in your knee over the course of the injections because of the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of hyaluronic acid. The injections may also stimulate the body's production of its own hyaluronic acid, and the effects may last for several months.

Viscosupplementation doesn't work for everyone, and it's very expensive. It can only alleviate pain for periods of time, not reverse or delay the progress of osteoarthritis. If your arthritis isn't responding well to your current course of medication and treatment, or if you're trying to delay an inevitable surgery, you may wish to discuss the option of Viscosupplementation with your orthopedic doctor.