Viscosupplementation In South Miami

Find Relief from Knee Pain with Viscosupplementation in South Miami

Are you struggling with persistent knee pain due to osteoarthritis? Do you find that everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting for long periods have become challenging? At South Miami Spine and Joint in South Miami, we understand the impact that chronic knee pain can have on your quality of life. That’s why we offer viscosupplementation, a non-surgical treatment option that may provide the relief you’ve been seeking.

What is Viscosupplementation

Viscosupplementation, also known as hyaluronic acid injections, is a treatment that involves injecting a gel-like substance directly into the affected knee joint. This substance, called hyaluronic acid, is naturally present in the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions your joints. In a healthy knee, hyaluronic acid helps the joint move smoothly and absorb shock. However, in people with osteoarthritis, the concentration and quality of hyaluronic acid may decrease, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. By supplementing the natural hyaluronic acid in your knee joint, viscosupplementation aims to improve lubrication, reduce friction, and alleviate pain. While it is not a cure for osteoarthritis, many patients report significant improvement in their symptoms following treatment.

Who Can Benefit from Viscosupplementation?

At South Miami Spine and Joint, we recommend viscosupplementation for individuals of any age, from teenagers to older adults, who have been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and are experiencing persistent pain and reduced mobility. This treatment may be particularly beneficial if you:

• Have tried other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, weight loss, and oral medications, without sufficient relief
• Want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery
• Have difficulty performing daily activities due to knee pain and stiffness
• Are not getting adequate pain control from over-the-counter medications

Our experienced healthcare professionals, including Silvia Marisol Roba, M.D., will carefully evaluate your condition and medical history to determine if viscosupplementation is the right choice for you.

What to Expect During Viscosupplementation Treatment

Viscosupplementation is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure. Here’s what you can expect:

• Your healthcare provider will clean the injection site and may apply a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
• Using ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement, your provider will inject the hyaluronic acid directly into your knee joint.
• You may experience mild pain or swelling at the injection site for a few days following treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can help manage these temporary side effects.
• Most patients receive a series of 3-5 injections, spaced a week apart, to achieve optimal results. Your provider will discuss the recommended treatment plan based on your individual needs.

Key Benefits of Viscosupplementation

While results may vary from person to person, many patients who undergo viscosupplementation at South Miami Spine and Joint experience:

Potential pain reduction and improved function: By improving lubrication and reducing friction within the knee joint, viscosupplementation may provide pain relief and enhance joint function, making daily activities more manageable.

Possible increase in flexibility and range of motion: As pain and stiffness decrease, you may find that your knee becomes more flexible, allowing for a greater range of motion and easier movement.

Potential to delay joint replacement surgery: For some patients, viscosupplementation may help postpone the need for knee replacement surgery by managing symptoms and potentially slowing the progression of osteoarthritis. However, it’s important to note that the evidence supporting this benefit is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the disadvantages of viscosupplementation?

While viscosupplementation is generally well-tolerated, potential drawbacks include temporary pain and swelling at the injection site, the need for multiple injections, and the fact that it is not a permanent solution for osteoarthritis. Additionally, the treatment may not be effective for everyone, and results can vary.

What is the success rate of viscosupplementation

Studies have shown that viscosupplementation can be effective in reducing knee pain and improving function in many patients with osteoarthritis. However, success rates vary, with some studies reporting pain reduction in up to 60-70% of patients. It’s important to discuss expected outcomes with your healthcare provider.

How long does viscosupplementation last?

The effects of viscosupplementation are not permanent, and the duration of relief varies from person to person. Some patients report pain reduction lasting several months, while others may experience benefits for a year or more. Repeat treatments may be necessary to maintain pain relief over time.

Schedule Your Consultation at South Miami Spine and Joint

If you’re ready to take the next step in finding relief from knee pain, contact South Miami Spine and Joint in South Miami today to schedule your viscosupplementation consultation. Our compassionate team, led by Silvia Marisol Robalino, M.D., is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. Don’t let knee pain hold you back any longer. Call South Miami Spine and Joint or request an appointment online now. We look forward to helping you find the relief you deserve.

About The Author

Laurence Mair, a Doctor of Chiropractics, puts patients at the forefront of their care. With 22 years of experience, he guides individuals toward achieving their best selves. At South Miami Spine and Joint in South Miami, Laurence Mair crafts individualized plans using cutting-edge techniques, empowering patients to overcome limitations and thrive.