Osteoarthritis Treatment

Topic at a Glance

  • Osteoarthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness due to reduced hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid, making movement more difficult.
  • Viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid injections is an FDA-approved osteoarthritis treatment for the knee, designed to restore lubrication and reduce pain.
  • Several options are available, including Euflexxa, Hyalgan, Orthovisc, Synvisc, and Synvisc-One, each offering different benefits and treatment schedules.
  • At NY Neurology Associates in New York, we understand how a painful joint can affect every part of your daily life. Our team offers a variety of osteoarthritis treatment options, including injections for osteoarthritis, to help you ease pain and regain movement.

The Role of Synovial Fluid in Joints

In order to move properly, your joints have a substance known as synovial fluid. This thick substance has the consistency of a gel and helps absorb shocks from normal activity such as walking, running, and turning. 

A part of this synovial fluid is hyaluronic acid. When the hyaluronic acid is not produced in adequate levels, the joints are at risk for damage as the synovial fluid is less able to provide lubrication. This is particularly an issue for individuals who have osteoarthritis. 

Joint viscosupplementation is the process of injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee in order to restore balance and movement in the joint. 

Treatment Options

In 1997, the FDA approved viscosupplementation as a treatment for osteoarthritis in the knee. There are multiple medications available for use in the process. While each of the medications functions differently, they were all created to allow osteoarthritis sufferers to decrease pain and increase mobility. 

Options for treatment include:

  • Euflexxa – Euflexxa is administered as a weekly injection over the course of three weeks. Typically, the injections are effective for up to six months. Some side effects associated with taking Euflexxa include swelling, tenderness, and skin irritation where the injection was given.
  • Hyalgan – Hyalgan is administered as a weekly injection over the course of five weeks. Commonly reported side effects include itching, swelling, and bruising at the site of the injection.
  • Orthovisc – This medication differs as it is made from bacteria. It provides an option for individuals who are allergic to chicken, which is used in the creation of many of the other medications. The medication may be administered in three or four doses based on medical need. Side effects include the buildup of fluid, swelling, and bruising.
  • Synvisc-One – The only option available as a single dose, this product can provide up to six months of pain management. Commonly reported side effects include pain and stiffness in the knee.
  • Synvisc – Synvisc uses three injections and can last up to six months. Swelling and pain around the knee are the most common side effects.

Find Relief from Osteoarthritis in New York

You don’t have to let joint inflammation, knee osteoarthritis, or hip and knee joint pain control your life. At NY Neurology Associates, we provide advanced osteoarthritis treatments tailored to your needs. 

Whether you’re seeking short-term pain relief or a long-term treatment plan, our experienced specialists are here to help. Contact our offices in New York today to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward pain relief and healthier joints.

FAQs About Osteoarthritis Treatment

Here are some common questions about osteoarthritis treatment.

This thick substance has the consistency of a gel and helps absorb shocks from normal activity such as walking, running, and turning. A part of this synovial fluid is hyaluronic acid.

Joint viscosupplementation is the process of injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee in order to restore balance and movement in the joint.

There are multiple medications available. While each of the medications functions differently, they were all created to allow osteoarthritis sufferers to decrease pain and increase mobility. Options for treatment include Euflexxa, Hyalgan, Orthovisc, Synvisc-One, and Synvisc.

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