Joint Fluid Therapy

Joint Fluid Therapy sometimes referred as Viscosupplementation is an in office injection treatment where a fluid called hyaluronic acid is injected into a joint. to treat osteoarthritis. It is most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee, but can also be used to treat other joints that have osteoarthritis including the shoulder, hip, and thumb joint.

The procedure consists of up to 1-4 weekly injections every 6 months and may be performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure more accurate placement, decrease the chances of discomfort and anxiety associated with the injection, and improve efficacy.

How Does Joint Fluid Therapy Work?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in normal joint fluid. People with osteoarthritis (i.e. wear and tear arthritis) often have a lower than normal concentration of hyaluronic acid in their joint fluid.

Joint Fluid Therapy injections can help restore the lubricating and cushioning properties within the joint, help decrease pain, improve function, and it may have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Preparing For The Procedure.

No special precautions are needed but you should let your doctor know if you are on any blood thinners or have an active infection.

Instructions For After Your Procedure:

You many return to normal activities the same day but avoid anything that may aggravate your joint pain. If you experience any discomfort in your injection site, you may apply ice to the area or take Tylenol or another pain reliever as recommended by your Physician.

What Are The Potential Complications And Risks of Joint Fluid Therapy?

• Temporary injection site pain
• Bruising, which is usually minor and is most often related to the injection itself.
• Infection is very rare as sterile technique is used.
• Swelling, heat, or redness, rash, and itching may occur but are unlikely.

Why Choose GCSP?

• Quality: At GCSP we use Joint Fluid Therapy made from ultra-pure high molecular weight hyaluronan. This variety has the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid amongst available viscosupplements and is made from non-avian sources without additives. All of this helps to ensure our patients are getting the most effective treatment possible with the least amount of side effects.
• Precise injection placement: At GCSP, we may use real time direct ultrasound visualization to guide the hyaluronic acid injection into the joint. Ultrasound guidance allows the most accurate placement possible which increases the likelihood that the procedure will be successful in providing relief of your pain.

How Much Does Joint Fluid Therapy Cost?

Most insurances, including Medicare cover the procedure. Our billing staff can help you understand your portion of the costs.

Let Us Help You “Get Pain Free, Get Moving, and Get Well”

Schedule an appointment today with one of our Rheumatologists to see if Joint Fluid Therapy may be an option to to help treat your osteoarthritis pain.