Hyalgan Injections For Knees Specialists

What happens to knees affected by osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops when normal wear-and-tear causes cartilage to break down. Cartilage is a smooth, firm, rubbery substance that covers the end of each bone in the knee. Its job is to absorb pressure, lubricate and cushion the bones, so they can move freely while bearing the weight of your body.

As the cartilage erodes, the bones are exposed and begin to rub against one another, causing pain and stiffness. In advanced osteoarthritis, all of the cartilage has been destroyed.

What factors raise the risk for developing osteoarthritis?

Everyone over the age of 50 has a higher risk for osteoarthritis simply because they’ve had more daily wear-and-tear on their knees. Women have nearly double the chance of developing knee osteoarthritis compared to men. You may lower your risk for knee osteoarthritis by avoiding these factors:

• Overweight and obesity
• Repetitive activities that put stress on your knees
• Joint injuries
• Infection

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Since osteoarthritis develops slowly, your symptoms gradually worsen over time. Typical symptoms include:

• Pain – the knee hurts during or after movement
• Stiffness – most noticeable when you wake or after a period of inactivity
• Loss of flexibility – affects ability to walk and to support your body
• Grating sensation – may develop with progressive cartilage loss
• Bone spurs – overgrowth develops as bones rub together

How does a Hyalgan injection relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis?

The cartilage in your knee contains hyaluronic acid, which is essential for lubricating and cushioning the joint. Hyalgan is a form of hyaluronic acid, hyaluronate, that can be injected directly into the knee joint, where it helps protect bones by restoring the effect of the lost hyaluronic acid.

Injections of Hyalgan are safe and they effectively relieve pain and improve movement in the knee. Hyalgan is given in 3-5 weekly injections. After getting the complete regimen, many patients find that they have less pain and stiffness for up to six months.

What other treatments are used for knee osteoarthritis?

Treatment for osteoarthritis begins with conservative methods, such as using topical or oral pain medications and creating a plan to stay active. It may seem challenging to exercise with a painful knee, but light to moderate exercise — especially aquatic, aerobic, and resistance exercise — is strongly recommended for knee osteoarthritis. Treatment with Hyalgan can help you stay active.