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- Viscosupplementation (Hyaluronic Acid) or “lubricating” injections, have been shown to relieve pain in some patients who cannot get relief from nonmedicinal measures or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications.
- Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial (joint) fluid that acts as a lubricant and a shock absorber. Patients with osteoarthritis often have a lower-than-normal concentration of hyaluronic acid in their joint.
- The injection works to relieve pain may be helpful for as many as 2/3 of patients, but it does not work for everyone.
- Viscosupplementation will not reverse or delay the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Hyaluronic Acid is manufactured by many pharmaceutical companies (Synvisc®, Orthovisc®, Supartz®, Euflexxa®, etc) and comes in several formulations.
- It is typically given as one shot each week for 3 consecutive weeks depending on the brand.
- Viscosupplementation can be expensive, averaging from $400 – $1500 per series, and may not be covered by your insurance policy.
- In today’s current healthcare insurance environment, many healthcare plans are electing to not cover the cost of the injections. As a courtesy for our patients, we can contact your insurance plan to see if you are covered.
- We do not stock the medication and it may take several weeks to arrive.
- Your appointment for injection will not be made until your medication has been received in the office. Once received, we will call you to schedule your injection.
