What is Viscosupplementation Injection? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

As we age, our joints become more fragile and are prone to wear and tear. This can lead to osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that causes swelling, pain, and stiffness. If you have been experiencing joint pain or osteoarthritis, you may have come across the term “viscosupplementation.” But what exactly is viscosupplementation injection, and how can it help alleviate joint pain and improve joint function? In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about viscosupplementation therapy and its benefits.

Viscosupplementation is a medical procedure that involves injecting hyaluronic acid fluid into the joint to supplement lost cartilage and improve joint function. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber in the joints. As we age, the body tends to produce less and less hyaluronic acid, leading to joint stiffness and pain. Viscosupplementation therapy aims to address this issue by injecting a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid directly into the joint, providing a cushioning effect and reducing friction between surrounding bones.

Viscosupplementation therapy is most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis occurs when the smooth cartilage that covers the ends of the bones wears down, leading to bone-on-bone contact and inflammation. This causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Viscosupplementation therapy can help reduce joint pain and stiffness by supplementing the joint with hyaluronic acid fluid, improving joint function, and delaying the need for joint replacement surgery.

The procedure itself is relatively easy and straightforward. During the viscosupplementation injection, a healthcare professional will numb the area around the joint with anesthesia and then inject the hyaluronic acid fluid directly into the joint. The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes and is usually done in an outpatient setting. Most people require a series of viscosupplementation injections, typically one per week for three to five weeks. The exact number of injections and frequency depends on the severity of your osteoarthritis and other factors. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action for your specific situation.

Viscosupplementation therapy is generally well-tolerated, with few side effects. The most common side effects include swelling, redness, and pain at the injection site. These symptoms typically subside within a few hours to several days. In rare cases, some people may experience an allergic reaction to the hyaluronic acid fluid, which can cause more severe symptoms such as itching, hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Viscosupplementation injection therapy can be an effective treatment option for people with osteoarthritis, providing relief from joint pain and stiffness and improving joint function. If you are experiencing joint pain or osteoarthritis, talk to your doctor about whether viscosupplementation therapy is right for you. At POSMC Tax Help, we are dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare and medical services to our clients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you improve your joint health.

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POSMC is a full-service medical facility specializing in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. The practice is led by a group of 12 board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. Contact us today!