Orthovisc Injection for Chronic Joint Pain: A Comprehensive Guide

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 51.6 million adults in the United States experience chronic pain. One of the most common causes of chronic pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that frequently targets the knee joints and negatively affects a person’s daily life.

Orthovisc is a viscosupplementation treatment that can address these concerns. This high molecular weight hyaluronan mimics the knee’s natural lubricating fluid, offering relief and improved mobility for those affected by chronic knee pain. Its application is particularly relevant for patients seeking alternatives to traditional pain management strategies.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how Orthovisc injections work and compare them to other treatment options so you can decide if Orthovisc is right for you.

Key Takeaways

• Orthovisc injections help ease joint pain by adding special fluid to cushion and lubricate the joints, making moving easier.
  
• They are mainly used for knee pain from osteoarthritis and can improve mobility and quality of life for up to six months.
  
• Some people might initially feel more discomfort due to inflammation after getting an Orthovisc shot, but this usually leads to long-term relief.
  
• Doctors choose Orthovisc for patients who haven’t seen improvement with standard pain relievers. Following the doctor’s advice before and after the injection is vital for the best results.

Introduction to Orthovisc Injections for Chronic Joint Pain

Chronic joint pain is often a symptom of underlying joint degeneration or inflammation. It can occur due to wear and tear over time, autoimmune disorders, or injuries. The pain is like a constant ache or a throbbing sensation that may worsen with movement or pressure.

Role of Orthovisc Injections in Managing Chronic Joint Pain

In viscosupplementation treatments, Orthovisc injections are used for chronic joint pain, particularly those caused by osteoarthritis. These injections contain hyaluronan and mimic the fluid naturally found in our joints.

This fluid acts as both a lubricant and cushion to help bones move smoothly over each other. Orthovisc injections can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay joint replacement surgery by replenishing the joint’s hyaluronan.

These injections have successfully reduced joint pain and improvedmobility for up to six months. Patients often report feeling less stiffness and enjoying better movement after treatment. For those dealing with knee pain, Orthovisc offers a solution that doesn’t require immediate surgery or heavy reliance on medication.

Mechanism of Action of Orthovisc Injections

Orthovisc injections are a non-surgical treatment option for patients with joint pain, particularly those with osteoarthritis. The injections aim to restore the natural properties of the synovial fluid in the joint, which can diminish because of arthritic conditions. Here’s how Orthovisc injections work to provide relief:

Lubrication and Cushioning of the Joints

Hyaluronic acid (HA), like the one in Orthovisc injections, acts as a joint lubricant. It makes the bones move smoothly against each other, which is vital for people suffering from knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Their natural hyaluronan levels drop, causing more friction and discomfort. So, Orthovisc works to bring back that slippery fluid to their joints.

This treatment also helps cushion the joints. Think of it as adding a soft pad between the bones. When there’s more cushion, there’s less pain during movement. Patients can walk and move more quickly after getting Orthovisc injections for knee pain or other joint issues caused by osteoarthritis.

Reduction of Inflammation

While Orthovisc is not an anti-inflammatory drug, its viscoelastic properties protect the joint and may indirectly reduce inflammation. By improving the joint’s mechanical environment, Orthovisc can help decrease the inflammatory cycle associated with joint pain and degeneration.

Since the treatment aims for long-lasting relief by restoring balance inside the joint space, it improves the quality of life for those with chronic joint pain as they experience a significant drop in pain.

Improvement of Mobility

By addressing lubrication and potentially reducing inflammation, Orthovisc injections may lead to improved joint mobility. Here’s how:

• Reduced Pain and Stiffness: With less friction and pain, movement becomes more manageable and less restricted.
  
• Enhanced Lubrication: Improved lubrication allows for smoother gliding of the joint surfaces, increasing the range of motion.

Additionally, some studies suggest that HA injections stimulate the production of endogenous HA by the synovial cells. These effects could have long-term benefits for joint health and mobility. But even though Orthovisc injections can provide relief, they usually are part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, weight management, and other modalities to manage chronic joint pain effectively.

Benefits of Orthovisc Injections for Chronic Joint Pain

Orthovisc injections have become a popular treatment option for individuals suffering from chronic joint pain, particularly for those who haven’t found sufficient relief with conservative measures like exercise and pain medication. These injections offer several benefits that can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Efficacy in Providing Long-Lasting Relief from Pain and Stiffness

Orthovisc injections are known for providing long-lasting pain relief. The hyaluronic acid in Orthovisc closely resembles the body’s natural joint fluid, which lubricates the joints and acts as a pillow to absorb shock or stress.  Here’s a breakdown:

• Pain Relief: Compared to placebo injections, Orthovisc injections have demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in joint pain. This pain relief can last several months, typically 3 to 6 months.  That’s half a year of relief from joint trouble. For many, Orthovisc’s lasting results make daily tasks easier and help them stay active without feeling held back by pain.
  
• Reduced Stiffness: Alongside pain relief, studies suggest Orthovisc injections can improve joint stiffness, particularly morning stiffness, allowing for more effortless movement upon waking.

Improvement of Joint Function and Quality of Life

Moving from relieving pain and stiffness, we see that Orthovisc treatments greatly enhance joint function. With less pain and stiffness, joints can move more freely, allowing for a broader range of motion during daily activities., making them enjoyable again. 

This improvement in movement translates to a better quality of life. People find they can do more of what they love without the constant reminder of joint pain. Whether climbing stairs, walking, or standing longer, ease and relief return when performing these simple actions.

Real-World Patient Experiences and Testimonials

Jon Grange has been a competitive runner for most of his life. He shares that he felt the urge to sign up for the New York City Marathon and aspired to qualify for the Boston Marathon. However, while training and preparing for the event, Jon felt something was wrong with his body, especially his knees.

He noticed that his knees felt weak whether he was running or not. Moreover, this issue became a concern when Jon would feel significant pain in his knees if he accidentally turned them the wrong way. Aside from affecting his running, Jon’s knee pain was also beginning to affect his daily activities.

Unfortunately, Jon’s consultation with his provider revealed early knee osteoarthritis. At first, Jon received a cortisone shot, but this treatment didn’t give him the relief he was looking for. His provider then recommended Orthovisc treatments to address his osteoarthritis, which had better results for Jon.

After a successful treatment, Jon qualified for the Boston Marathon. He also expressed his satisfaction with the longevity of his Orthovisc results, saying this treatment was a “godsend” for someone like him who lived an active lifestyle.

For Jon, Orthovisc injections have become a routine, and he regularly gets maintenance treatments every six months to handle the pain caused by knee osteoarthritis.

Many patients like Jon report positive outcomes with Orthovisc, including:

• Reduced reliance on pain medication: Some patients find they can significantly reduce or even eliminate their dependence on pain medication after Orthovisc injections.
  
• Improved ability to exercise: Some patients can resume or increase their exercise routines because they feel less pain, promoting overall health and well-being.
  
• Greater participation in activities: Reduced pain and stiffness allow patients to engage more actively in hobbies and social activities they may have previously limited due to joint pain.

Considerations for Orthovisc Injections

Orthovisc injections can be a valuable treatment for chronic joint pain, but there are several considerations that patients and healthcare providers should take into account before proceeding with this therapy.

Treatment Candidacy

Only some people are candidates for Orthovisc injections. While typically used for knee osteoarthritis, they might sometimes be suitable for other joints. Here are some general factors a doctor will consider:

• Diagnosis: Orthovisc injections are most effective for osteoarthritis but may also be effective for other conditions causing joint pain after alternative treatments are excluded.
  
• Severity of pain: If you haven’t found adequate relief with conservative measures like pain medication and physical therapy, Orthovisc injections could be an option.
  
• Overall health: Underlying health conditions might influence candidacy. Discuss any pre-existing health issues with your doctor.

A consultation with a healthcare professional is crucial to determine if Orthovisc injections are a suitable treatment option for your case. Moreover, this consultation can help your chosen provider manage your expectations about the treatment. Informing you about what to expect after Orthovisc injections will help you make informed decisions about managing your joint pain.

Potential Side Effects

Orthovisc injections are generally well-tolerated, but some potential side effects can occur. These are typically mild and temporary and might include:

• Injection site pain, swelling, and redness: These side effects usually subside within a few days.
  
• Joint stiffness or achiness: This effect might be temporary and can go away with rest and ice application.
  
• Bruising: Minor bruising around the injection site is possible.
  
• Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions are rare, but you must inform your doctor about any allergies.

Treatment Process and Preparation

The process begins with a detailed assessment by a medical professional to ensure you’re a good candidate. This assessment involves checking your medical history and current health status. If both knees suffer from pain, the doctor will treat them separately.

Before getting an Orthovisc injection, avoid taking any medications that might increase bleeding risk, like aspirin or other blood thinners. The healthcare provider may also advise avoiding strenuous or prolonged weight-bearing activities before the treatment.

During the treatment, the healthcare professional thoroughly cleans the area around the knee before administering Orthovisc directly into the joint space.

Postinjection Care and Follow-up Recommendations

After receiving an Orthovisc injection, patients must rest the treated joint and avoid high-impact activities for at least 48 hours. Applying ice to the injection site can help reduce immediate swelling or discomfort. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the joint’s response to the treatment and to decide if additional injections are necessary.

Patients must clearly understand these considerations and maintain open communication with their healthcare provider throughout treatment to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Comparison with Alternative Treatment Options

When considering treatments for chronic joint pain, Orthovisc injections are one option among several. Here’s how they compare to other common treatments:

• Corticosteroid Injections: These injections provide quick relief by reducing inflammation directly in the joint. However, the effects are typically short-lived, and repeated injections may lead to joint damage over time.
  
• Physical Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that helps improve joint function and mobility through exercises and manual therapy. While it doesn’t provide immediate pain relief like injections, it can lead to long-term benefits with consistent practice.

Orthovisc therapy is evolving, with ongoing research to enhance its effectiveness and better understand its mechanisms. Studies are exploring the long-term benefits of Orthovisc injections, potential improvements in the formulation, and how it compares to other viscosupplementation products. With ongoing research, there’s hope for even more improvements in treating joint pain with Orthovisc therapy.

Conclusion

Chronic joint pain disrupts daily life. Orthovisc injections are a potential option as they offer more than just temporary relief from joint pain.

This treatment embodies a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing pain, empowering patients with the knowledge to make informed decisions. With the potential for less pain and improved mobility, Orthovisc is a testament to the advancements in treating joint discomfort.

It’s a collaborative journey, with doctors providing guidance and patients actively participating in their care. This effect leads to a life where patients can take each step with ease and confidence.

About: DoctorMedica is your trusted supplier of top-quality dermal fillers, viscosupplements, and more for your medical practice. We offer genuine products from leading brands at the lowest prices in the market. Whether you need a specific product or various options, we can help you find the best deals for your needs. Plus, you can enjoy our promotions and free shipping for orders over $500. With DoctorMedica, you can offer your patients the best results for less.

FAQs

1. What is Orthovisc made from?

Orthovisc is made from a highly purified form of hyaluronan derived from rooster combs. Hyaluronan is a natural substance in the body, particularly in high amounts within joint tissues and the fluid that fills the joints.

2. Does Orthovisc have FDA approval?

Orthovisc received FDA approval on February 4, 2004, for treating pain associated with knee osteoarthritis in patients who have not found relief with more conservative treatments.

3. Can I buy Orthovisc online?

Only licensed medical professionals can buy Orthovisc online from distributors like Doctor Medica. 

References

Rikard SM, Strahan AE, Schmit KM, Guy GP. Chronic pain among adults — United States, 2019–2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2023;72(15):379-385. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm7215a1

Johnston J, Muir JM, Sloniewsky MJ. Optimal Treatment Interval of Viscosupplementation for Osteoarthritic Knee Pain: Real-world Evidence from a Retrospective Study. The Open Orthopaedics Journal. 2022;16(1). doi:10.2174/18743250-v16-e221202-2022-6

Peck J, Slovek A, Miro P, et al. A comprehensive review of viscosupplementation in osteoarthritis of the knee. Orthopedic Reviews. 2021;13(2). doi:10.52965/001c.25549