Viscosupplementation for Knee Osteoarthritis: What You Need to Know
Experiencing knee pain due to osteoarthritis can affect your day-to-day life. Activities like climbing stairs or walking around the home can feel painful and overwhelming. If you have tried steroid injections without result and advanced treatments like PRP or stem cell therapy feel out of reach, viscosupplementation may be the right solution for you.
At Advanced Sports & Spine, we offer viscosupplementation in Charlotte, NC, as a minimally invasive treatment to effectively and affordably help relieve pain and restore mobility in the knee.
In this guide, our physiatrist in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Ahmad, will explain what viscosupplementation is and how it can help you return to the activities you enjoy.
What Is Viscosupplementation (Knee Gel Injection)?
Viscosupplementation therapy, commonly known as the “gel series,” involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that helps lubricate and cushion the joints.
In patients with osteoarthritis, the natural supply of hyaluronic acid is reduced, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility.
Viscosupplementation treatment helps the knee move more smoothly by restoring lubrication, reducing pain, and improving function. Many patients refer to it simply as a knee gel injection because of its relaxative effect inside the joint.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Viscosupplementation Treatment?
Not every patient with knee pain will require viscosupplementation therapy. This treatment is particularly for individuals who:
- Have been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis
- Tried conservative approaches like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or steroid injections without lasting relief
- Are not yet ready or are not good candidates for knee replacement surgery
- Need a cost-effective alternative to regenerative options like PRP or stem cell therapy.
At Advanced Sports & Spine in Charlotte, NC, our board-certified physician and physiatrist will examine your condition to determine if viscosupplementation is the proper treatment your knee deserves.
Benefits of Viscosupplementation
Patients choose viscosupplementation for its many advantages, including:
- Quick pain relief: Knee gel injection helps reduce joint stiffness and aching caused by knee osteoarthritis.
- Improved mobility: It enhances the range of motion, making daily activities easier.
- Non-surgical solution: Viscosupplementation provides relief without the need for invasive surgery.
- Covered by insurance: Unlike some regenerative therapies, insurance plans often include viscosupplementation treatment.
- Alternative to steroid injections: Knee gel injection benefits patients who haven’t found relief with steroid injections.
For many, viscosupplementation therapy offers a new approach to pain management, helping them return to walking, exercising, or simply enjoying pain-free time with family.
The Viscosupplementation Procedure in Charlotte
One of the patients’ most common questions is, “what should I expect during viscosupplementation therapy?”
Here are a few things to expect:
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before receiving viscosupplementation treatment, our physiatrist in Charlotte, Dr. Ahmad, will thoroughly evaluate you. This includes reviewing your medical history, imaging results, and prior therapies. You’ll also be able to ask questions about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
Most patients do not require any special preparation. You may be advised to wear comfortable clothing and avoid strenuous activity on the day of your appointment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The viscosupplementation procedure in the office typically takes less than 30 minutes. Here’s what happens:
- Dr. Ahmad will prepare and sterilize the injection site.
- If needed, a small amount of fluid may be removed from the knee joint to make space for the gel.
- The knee gel injection, hyaluronic acid, is administered using a fine needle under image guidance to ensure accuracy. The procedure is performed with local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
Most patients report minimal discomfort, often describing the sensation as a quick pinch or pressure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Following viscosupplementation treatment, patients can usually return to normal activities right away. However, you may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours.
Some people experience mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves within a day or two. Over the next several weeks, the injected hyaluronic acid lubricates and cushions the joint, gradually reducing pain and improving mobility. Many patients notice significant improvement within 3–4 weeks.
Risks and Side Effects of Viscosupplementation
While viscosupplementation therapy is considered safe, as with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects. These may include:
- Temporary swelling, redness, or warmth at the injection site
- Mild joint stiffness or discomfort for a day or two
- Rarely, allergic reactions or infection
Our board-certified physician in Charlotte, NC, takes every precaution to ensure your safety. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and encourage patients to contact us with any concerns after treatment.
Viscosupplementation Therapy in Charlotte, NC
If you’re struggling with knee osteoarthritis, viscosupplementation therapy may be the solution you’ve been searching for. At Advanced Sports & Spine, our experienced physiatrist offers personalized viscosupplementation treatment in Charlotte, which is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Our practice is committed to helping patients achieve pain relief and improved mobility, without unnecessary surgery or prolonged downtime. With insurance coverage available, viscosupplementation treatment for knee arthritis is an accessible option for many individuals in the Charlotte community.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward pain relief and better mobility, schedule a consultation with our team today.
Disclaimer: The benefits of regenerative medicine have not been reviewed or approved by the FDA.