Knee Injections for Osteoarthritis
Gel injections can be administered on the knee by a doctor to treat osteoarthritis. These procedures are usually quick and require little downtime. The health professional will examine your condition and examine your overall health during your procedure. Once you feel comfortable you can go to the doctor who will numb your knee with a local anesthetic. The doctor will then put a small needle through the knee joint using ultrasound and xray technology.
Following a successful treatment, your doctor will likely recommend a few additional treatment options. If you experience significant discomfort after your injections, your physician might suggest platelet-rich plasma therapy or a different course of injections. The injection process can be repeated as long as 6 months dependent on your particular requirements. It can be done in the clinic of your doctor. However, it is important to remember that viscosupplementation does not cure osteoarthritis. Your doctor will give you specific guidelines regarding your treatment.
If you have osteoarthritis, it is possible that you will need a few treatments. Physical therapy is typically your first choice. You can also think about corticosteroid injections to help with your treatment plan. But, they are generally considered an option last resort. Doctors can administer these injections to ease knee pain and enhance the knee`s shock-absorbing capacity. Injections with gel could be the best choice for you.
One of the brands of gel injections is Synvisc-One. This is used for patients suffering from osteoarthritis of their knees. Synvisc-One has not shown any response to any other treatment. Before Synvisc-One is given, you must treat any infection surrounding the injection area or the knee joint. If you are experiencing swelling in your legs due to osteoarthritis or other conditions, talk to your doctor. When considering gel injections make sure you consult an expert in health care to determine which option will best suit your specific medical condition.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that cushions joints. Hyaluronic acid decreases naturally in knee arthritis. Therefore, hyaluronic acid is less prevalent in knees. Gel injections are a way to restore the natural cushioning action that hyaluronic acids exerts on the joint surface. This can improve mobility and pain for up to six months. In Brad`s situation, the injections lasted from two to four months.
Medicare could cover gel injections. Some physicians do not require a referral. Patients who aren`t able to afford surgery might opt to have it performed in a local clinic. However, a doctor can prescribe this treatment for patients who fail to react to other treatments, such as the use of pain medications or over-the-counter antiinflammatory drugs. A doctor could administer gel injections to treat osteoarthritis , and enhance your quality of life.
Medicare Part B benefits cover 80 percent of the price for knee gel injections. You are responsible for the remaining 20 percent following the Part B deductible and co-insurance. Medicare Advantage plans generally have their beneficiaries using medical facilities, providers and pharmacies that are part of their network. You may be responsible for the total cost if they do not. Take the time to read the policy thoroughly and inquire with the health care provider representative whether they`re part of the network. It is recommended to call your health insurance company to determine whether knee gel injections are covered under your plan.
Gel injections for knee arthritis haven`t confirmed to be effective but many patients find them comfortable. The majority of side effects are gone within one to two days. Some people may have an inflammatory reaction that may cause intense joint pain, low blood pressure, high fever, and even low blood pressure. But, it is not common. Gel injections can improve quality of life for some patients. Also, if you have an inflammation issue that requires treatment, gel injections could improve the function of your joint.
The advantages of gel injections are many. However, the main drawback is that they may not work for you. There are some who experience swelling or grunting after their treatment. These injections may be dangerous if your immune system reacts to steroids. They might not be suitable for you if you suffer from an allergy to hyaluronic acids or PRP. However, if you`re intolerant to steroids, you can opt for the other types of injections.