Welcome to Winchester Orthopaedic Associates, Ltd

Patient Education:

 

What is a Joint Injection?

 

Sodium Hyaluronate is a medication used for patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knees.  The brands of this medication used in our office are: Hyalgan, Synvisc and Euflexxa.  It is used for patients who do not get relief from simple pain killers, exercise, or physical therapy.  Hyalgan is a sterile mixture that is derived from rooster combs. It contains hyaluronan, a natural chemical found in the body with particularly high amounts found in the joints.  Hyalgan is given in the doctors office and is injected directly into the knee.  The treatment consists of a series of three to five injections given at weekly intervals.  The length of pain relief may differ on an individual basis.  In some cases the pain relief has lasted up to 26 weeks.  Before the injection is given the doctor injects a local anesthetic to help decrease the discomfort of the Hyalgan.  During the injection of the medication the patient may feel minimal pain at the injection site.  After the injection the patient may experience mild pain or swelling, with occasional redness,  itching, or bruising around the joint.  These side effects are mild and generally do not last long.  Hyalgan should not be used if the patient has had previous allergic reactions to it, or any medications containing Hyaluronan.  Hyalgan should also not be given if the patient has had an infection or skin disease in the area of the injection site.  Immediately after the injection and for the next 48 hours the patient may need to avoid increased physical activity, such as jogging, heavy lifting, or standing for long periods of time.

 

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