Osteoarthritis Knee Injections
A doctor can administer gel injections in your knee joint to relieve osteoarthritis. These procedures are quick and generally require little downtime. Your health care provider will assess your condition and examine the general health of your body during your procedure. The physician will then anesthetize your knee using local anesthetic. The doctor will then insert tiny needles into the knee joint, using ultrasound and xray technology.
After a successful procedure the doctor is likely to recommend some follow-up treatment options. If you experience significant pain following the injections your physician might suggest platelet-rich plasma therapy or a different course of injections. Based on your individual needs, the injections can be repeated as long as six months later. You can have it done in the physician`s office. It is crucial to remember that the viscosupplementation procedure will not heal osteoarthritis. Your physician will provide you with specific instructions on how to treat your condition.
If you suffer from osteoarthritis, you might need to go through some therapies. Physical therapy is usually your first choice. There is also the possibility of corticosteroid injections as part of your treatment strategy. Gel injections are usually reserved for situations that require last resort. These injections may be prescribed by a doctor to relieve pain and increase the knee`s shock-absorbing ability. Injections with gel could be the ideal option for you.
One of the brands of gel injections is Synvisc-One. This is an injection for those suffering from osteoarthritis of the knees. The product has not been able to respond to other treatments. Before Synvisc-One is administered, it is recommended to take care of any infections around the injection site or the knee joint. If you`re experiencing swelling in your legs due to osteoarthritis consult your physician. If you`re considering injections with gel ensure you consult with a health care provider to determine which one would best suit your specific condition.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that cushions joints. Hyaluronic acid is naturally reduced in arthritis knees. As a result, less is found in knee. Gel injections can improve the natural cushioning action that hyaluronic acids provide to the surface of the joint. This increases mobility and pain for up to six months. In Brad`s case, injections were effective for 2 to 4 months.
Gel injections are covered by Medicare. Some physicians do not require a referral. Patients who can`t afford surgery can opt to have it done at a local clinic. But, a physician may recommend this procedure for patients who are unable to respond to more conservative treatments, like prescription pain medications and over-the counter anti-inflammatory medications. A doctor could administer gel injections to treat osteoarthritis and increase your quality of life.
Medicare Part B benefits cover 80 percent of the cost for knee gel injections. You pay the remainder of 20 percent after paying the Part B deductible and co-insurance. Medicare Advantage plans typically require that beneficiaries use hospitals, doctors and pharmacies within their network. If they are not however, you might have to pay for the entire cost yourself. You should carefully study the policy and verify with the representative to see whether they`re part of the network. You should contact your health insurance company to determine whether knee gel injections are covered by your plan.
Gel injections for knee arthritis aren`t proven to be beneficial but many patients find the procedure comfortable. Most side-effects subside within two or three days. Some people may be afflicted with an inflammation that may cause extreme joint pain, low blood pressure, high fever, and possibly lower blood pressure. However, this isn`t common. For certain patients, a gel injection will increase the quality of life. Also, if you have an inflammation problem the gel injections may boost the functionality of the joint.
Gel injections` benefits are many. The major drawback is they may not work for you. Certain people experience swelling or grunting after their treatment. These injections may danger when your immune system is sensitive to steroids. They may not be appropriate for you if you suffer from an allergy to hyaluronic acids or PRP. You can choose to get the injections by other methods in case you are allergic.