Viscosupplementation injections, or hyaluronic acid (HA), are a minimally invasive treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), primarily in the knee. This treatment aims to restore the viscoelastic properties of synovial fluid, which are compromised in OA, thereby improving joint lubrication and shock absorption.
The procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid—a naturally occurring substance in joint fluid—directly into the affected joint. This helps restore cushioning, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for your joints. In people with OA, the natural hyaluronic acid in the joint breaks down, leading to increased friction and pain. By injecting this gel-like substance into the knee, viscosupplementation helps:
✔️ Restore lost lubrication
✔️ Reduce inflammation
✔️ Improve joint movement
✔️ Delay the need for surgery
Different HA products vary in molecular weight and formulation, which may influence their efficacy and duration of action. High molecular weight HA, such as hylan G-F 20, has been shown to provide longer-lasting relief compared to lower molecular weight formulations, although the cost is higher [Adams et al, 2000]. Despite these differences, no single product has been definitively proven superior in head-to-head comparisons [Hunter et al, 2022].
If you have mild to moderate osteoarthritis and haven’t found relief from physical therapy, over-the-counter pain medications, or lifestyle changes, viscosupplementation may be worth considering. It is especially beneficial for individuals who:
However, those with severe osteoarthritis or significant joint deformity may not benefit as much from this treatment.
The process is simple and typically takes just a few minutes in your doctor’s office:
Most patients notice gradual improvement over several weeks, with pain relief lasting up to six months or longer.
Viscosupplementation is generally well-tolerated, but some patients may experience temporary side effects such as:
If you have any concerns, your doctor will discuss ways to minimize risks.
The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) provides guidelines on the use of HA injections for knee pain. These guidelines highlight that HA can stimulate cartilage synthesis and reduce inflammation, offering a potential benefit over oral NSAIDs, particularly in the elderly population due to a better long-term side effect profile [Hunter et al, 2022].
How does viscosupplementation compare to other osteoarthritis treatments?
Clinical evidence on the efficacy of HA injections is mixed.
If knee pain is interfering with your daily life, it’s time to explore your options. Contact us below to help determine if viscosupplementation is right for you.
(781) 591-7855
20 Walnut St
Suite 14
Wellesley MA 02481
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