Hyaluronic acid injections are used to treat joints in the knees, hips, and ankles. Joints are similar to gears and need a substance to keep them moving and working properly. A fluid in the joints helps them to move against each other smoothly. It acts as a shock absorber. When you develop osteoarthritis hyaluronic acid breaks down in the body. The loss of this fluid seems to contribute to pain in the joints. Hyaluronic acid is approved by the FDA for treatment of pain in the knees.
Hyaluronic Injection in the Knees and Joints
Injections are given in the knees and they act as a lubricant to make the joints work smoothly. When you develop osteoarthritis the synovial fluid in your joints has thinned out. This means the joints are not working properly and you develop stiffness and pain.
The chiropractor will give you an injection in the knee of hyaluronic acid near the knee joint. Often it is one shot a week for three to five weeks. It is used in other joints as well. There are different brands of hyaluronic acid used. All have been shown to be equally effective in treating joint pain.
When Is It Used
It is used when patients do not respond to treatment with painkillers or want an alternative treatment. When you make an appointment at the Premier Medical Group the chiropractor will give you an exam before determining treatment. They will conduct a series of tests to make the right diagnosis. Along with the injections they may give you corrective exercises, massage therapy, and nutritional counseling.
It takes about five weeks to get results from hyaluronic acid shots. Studies show that these shots work better than pain killers for many patients. Often this treatment works as well as corticosteroids injections in patients.
Procedure for Hydraluroic Acid ShotsThe doctor will clean the area first. If your knee is swollen he may use a needle to remove excess fluid. After that, he will insert the needle into the joint with the injection. You may have some pain and slight inflammation. Patients should avoid weight-bearing exercise for a few days.
Contact Your Cape Coral Chiropractor about Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Contact Premier Medical Group for an appointment about knee or joint pain and to learn more about hyaluronic acid injections. Our chiropractors will give you a comprehensive exam and determine the best treatment. Call today.
