Gel Injections for Osteoarthritis in the Knee

In knees with osteoarthritis, the joint fluid (called synovial fluid) can break down and not provide the cushioning your knee needs. This can contribute to the pain often experienced by patients with osteoarthritis. In addition to over the counter medication and physical therapy, often times gel injections are used as a part of the treatment of osteoarthritis to provide pain relief and improve the knee’s natural shock absorbing abilities.

Synvisc- One is one brand of these type of injections and has been  recommended for treatment of pain in osteoarthritis of the knee in patients who have failed to respond to other treatments such as diet, exercise, and over-the-counter medications.  Synvisc and other similar types of gel injections should not be used in patients with an infected knee joint, skin disease or infection around the area where the injection will be given, and should be used with caution when there is swelling of the legs due to problems with venous stasis or lymphatic drainage.

The injection contains a gel-like mixture made from a substance called hyaluronan.  Hyaluronan is a natural substance found in the body and is present in very high amounts in joints. The body’s own hyaluronan acts like a lubricant and a shock absorber in the joint and is needed for the joint to work properly. The injection supplements the fluid in your knee to help lubricate and cushion the joint, and can provide up to six months of osteoarthritis knee pain relief.

Synvisc-One is a single-dose treatment that is injected directly into your knee by a specialist trained in treating knee osteoarthritis, such as an orthopedic surgeon or rheumatologist.

It is recommended you avoid strenuous activities or prolonged weight-bearing activities for approximately 48 hours following each injection. You should consult your doctor regarding the appropriate time to resume these activities and physical therapy.

Source: synviscone.com