Most experts agree that OA of the knee is best treated with a combination of physical therapy, medications and lifestyle modifications. Not all patients, however, will respond to this type of treatment regimens. Some patients will experience adverse reactions to narcotic pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory pain medications such as corticosteroid injections or Cox-2-inhibitors (Celebrex/Vioxx). Other patients prefer a non-pharmaceutical approach or are considering knee replacement surgery and would like to delay the surgery until the timing is right. For these patients, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a viable treatment option. Hyaluronic Acid is an FDA approved medical treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. Hyaluronic Acid is an artificial replacement of the synovial fluid or the body's natural lubricating fluid. When injected into the knee, it helps cushion the knee by increasing the fluid around the knee. With that, the patient experiences a reduction or resolution of knee pain and an increased ability to perform their daily activities. Hyaluronic Acid is injected into the space between the knee joint. Specific placement of the HA injection is imperative. Confirmation of exact needle placement is obtained by ultrasound or x-ray guidance. The patient will usually undergo a series of injections over several weeks. Some patients notice a significant improvement after the first injection. We do, however, recommend completing the protocol for maximum therapeutic benefit. The duration of relief provided by HA injections varies from patient to patient. Generally speaking, the average patient will receive six months to one year of relief from knee pain. But, if the patient couples a regimen of physical therapy treatments and a modest home exercise program with HA injections, the relief might last even longer. Patients can also receive a repeat regimen of HA injections as needed, without harmful side-effects.

Even though HA is proven to be a safe and effective treatment for chronic knee pain, it is not for everyone. Patients who have had a previous reaction to hyaluronan products, a knee joint infection or a skin disease in or around the knee should not have this treatment, as it is contraindicated. Only a highly qualified medical physician with experience in HA injections can determine if you are a candidate for this treatment.