Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As cartilage wears down over time, the knee joint loses its natural cushioning, leading to discomfort and inflammation.
While treatments like physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can help, some patients need additional relief. Viscosupplementation is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to improve lubrication and reduce pain.
What Is Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation is a procedure used to supplement the knee’s natural synovial fluid. Hyaluronic acid, the key component of these injections, is a substance found naturally in joint fluid. In osteoarthritis, the levels and quality of hyaluronic acid decrease, making joint movement more difficult and painful. By injecting a gel-like form of hyaluronic acid into the knee, viscosupplementation aims to restore lubrication, improve shock absorption, and reduce discomfort.
How the Procedure Works
The viscosupplementation process is relatively simple and performed in a medical office. Here’s what patients can expect:
- Evaluation – A doctor assesses the severity of osteoarthritis and determines if viscosupplementation is appropriate.
- Injection Preparation – The skin around the knee is cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be used to minimize discomfort.
- Fluid Removal (If Necessary) – If there is excessive fluid in the knee, the doctor may remove it before injecting the hyaluronic acid.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injection – The hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the joint space. Some patients receive a single injection, while others may require a series over several weeks.
- Post-Injection Care – Patients are advised to rest for a short period but can usually resume normal activities within a day. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 48 hours.
Who Can Benefit From Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who have not found relief with other treatments such as pain relievers, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications. It is often considered when anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections are no longer effective.
While viscosupplementation does not cure osteoarthritis, it may provide long-lasting pain relief and improve joint function. Some patients experience benefits for several months, allowing them to remain active and delay the need for more invasive treatments, such as knee replacement surgery.
Potential Benefits and Limitations
Like any medical treatment, viscosupplementation has both benefits and limitations.
Potential Benefits:
- Improved knee lubrication, reducing friction and pain
- Increased mobility and joint function
- Delayed progression of osteoarthritis symptoms
- A non-surgical alternative for pain management
Limitations to Consider:
- Results vary from patient to patient
- Pain relief is not immediate and may take a few weeks to develop
- The treatment is not effective for everyone, especially in advanced osteoarthritis cases
- Some patients may experience mild swelling or discomfort at the injection site
How Viscosupplementation Compares to Other Treatments
Viscosupplementation is one of several treatment options for knee osteoarthritis. Compared to corticosteroid injections, which provide faster but shorter-lasting relief, hyaluronic acid injections may offer longer-term benefits with fewer side effects.
Physical therapy and weight management remain important for maintaining joint function, while surgical options like knee replacement are reserved for severe cases where conservative treatments no longer help.
Find Out If Viscosupplementation Is Right for You
Viscosupplementation offers a non-surgical approach to managing knee osteoarthritis, helping many patients find relief from pain and stiffness. By improving joint lubrication, this treatment can support mobility and daily function.
While not a cure, it provides an option for those seeking to delay surgery and maintain an active lifestyle. Patients interested in viscosupplementation should consult with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right choice for their condition.
Have questions about viscosupplementation treatment for knee osteoarthritis or want to know more? Contact us today.
