Viscosupplementation
Clearwater, Tampa, St Petersburg, Florida
What is Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation is a procedure that involves injecting the knee joint with a substance that is very similar to the body’s natural joint fluid (synovial fluid). This supplements the joint with viscous and elastic properties, which help the joint act more biomechanically efficient.
Viscosupplementation is used often in osteoarthrosis or degenerative arthritis of the knee, when the normal synovial or joint fluid becomes less functional (it loses its lubricating properties). Injecting the knee with a viscosupplement agent, such as Hyalgan or Synvisc, can be a very effective medical tool to help restore normal biomechanical function of the knee. Viscosupplementation can also diminish pain, since a dry joint will often create pain due to the friction that occurs when there is less lubrication in the joint. Medical research indicates that viscosupplementation preparations also act as an anti-inflammatory, reducing various chemical breakdowns that occur in the cartilaginous region of the joint.
With degenerative arthritis or osteoarthrosis, there is a breakdown of joint cartilage along with a loss of the lubricating capability of the joint. As the cartilage wears down there is more friction as the bones begin to wear against each other. The synovial fluid is rich in a substance known as hyaluronic acid and this is the foundation of viscosupplementation.
There are several preparations available (such as Hyalgan, Synvisc, and Synvisc-1), each with evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of these injections.
Viscosupplementation will help diminish inflammation to an extent, as well as improve the lubricating capabilities of the joints. There are other modalities or procedures that can help increase the effectiveness of the viscosupplementation. These include physical medicine modalities, and supplemental injections to promote healing such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Dr. Lox will consider your medical history and his physical examination, then tailor a program specifically for your needs.
Utilizing the most effective state-of-the-art treatments, such as viscosupplementation and platelet-rich plasma, help to rejuvenate and regenerate the cartilage and the synovial fluid. With these, in addition to a comprehensive rehabilitation program, even the most problematic knee pain conditions may be corrected without surgical intervention.
If you continue to suffer with knee pain, ask Dr. Lox if viscosupplementation is right for you. Since 1990, Dennis M. Lox, M.D has applied his personal interests in sports medicine, cutting-edge regenerative medicine and chronic pain management to helping patients increase their quality of life. Contact us for an appointment at 727-462-5582.
Dennis M. Lox, MD, and the Florida Spine Center serve patients within the greater Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater, Tampa and St. Petersburg, as well as all of Florida and the US.
All statements, information or opinions provided by this website are provided for educational purposes only. We do not diagnose nor treat through this website or by telephone. As you consider any treatment, discuss them with your physician.