By Dr. Sheetal Deo, specializing in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Arthritis, particularly in the knee, is a prevalent condition affecting a significant portion of the population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 32.5 million adults in the United States suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, with the knee being a primary site of discomfort and disability. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for effective treatment options.
Understanding Knee Arthritis
Arthritis of the knee occurs when the cartilage, the cushioning between the knee joints, wears down. This leads to pain, stiffness, and other debilitating symptoms. Traditional treatments range from Physical Therapy, medications, and steroid injections to surgery in severe cases. However, a non-surgical solution, hyaluronic acid injections, is gaining attention for its effectiveness in alleviating arthritis pain.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections: A Closer Look
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our joints, acting as a lubricant and shock absorber. In patients with knee arthritis, the change in composition and decrease in quantity of hyaluronic acid leads to increased joint pain and stiffness. This sensation can often be described as “grinding’.
The Science Behind the Treatment
Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) indicates that hyaluronic acid injections can significantly reduce knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis. A study in “Osteoarthritis and Cartilage” showed that over 70% of patients who received hyaluronic acid injections reported pain relief and improved mobility. These findings demonstrate the potential of hyaluronic acid as a viable treatment option for knee arthritis
The Procedure
Administered directly into the knee joint, hyaluronic acid injections replenish the joint’s naturally occurring hyaluronic acid. Typically, patients receive a series of injections over several weeks. This treatment is particularly appealing for those seeking non-surgical options.
Benefits and Considerations
Hyaluronic acid injections offer several benefits:
- Pain Relief: They provide significant pain relief, improving quality of life.
- Mobility Improvement: Many patients report enhanced joint mobility.
- Safety Profile: These injections have a favorable safety profile, especially compared to long-term pain medication use and steroid injections.
- Delaying Surgery: They can delay the need for more invasive procedures like knee replacement surgery by years.
However, it’s important to note that results can vary, and not all patients may experience the same level of relief.
Who Can Benefit?
Ideal candidates for hyaluronic acid injections typically include:
- Patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis.
- Individuals looking for non-surgical treatment options.
- Patients who have not found relief with other therapies like Physical Therapy or NSAIDs alone.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid injections represent a promising solution for many suffering from knee arthritis pain. By offering a non-surgical, minimally invasive option, it opens the door to improved joint health and quality of life. If you are struggling with knee arthritis and seeking an alternative to surgery, consult with your Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation doctor to discuss whether hyaluronic acid injections are suitable for you.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Sheetal Deo Medical P.C. at 212-596-4360 or www.DrSheetalDDeo.com
