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When you hear the term Orthovisc, you might wonder, “What is Orthovisc?” It’s a medical treatment designed to help with knee pain, particularly from osteoarthritis. Let’s dive into what makes Orthovisc an effective option for many patients.
Orthovisc is an intra-articular injection used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It’s a high molecular weight hyaluronan, a natural substance found in the synovial fluid of joints. Orthovisc acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, providing relief for those who haven’t responded adequately to conservative treatments like physical therapy or simple analgesics.
Orthovisc contains hyaluronic acid, which mimics the fluid in your knee joint. The fluid reduces friction, cushions the joint, and helps reduce inflammation. It’s particularly effective for patients who have failed to respond adequately to other treatments. The high molecular weight hyaluronan in Orthovisc helps maintain joint health and mobility.
One of the primary benefits of Orthovisc is pain relief. Many patients report significant improvements in knee pain following the injections. The relief will last for up to six months, making it a long-term solution for chronic pain.
By reducing inflammation and acting as a lubricant, Orthovisc will improve joint function. This leads to better mobility and allows patients to engage in daily activities without constant pain.
Orthovisc will lessen the need for other pain medications. It is particularly beneficial for those who want to avoid the side effects of long-term drug use.
Your doctor will assess your condition to ensure Orthovisc is appropriate for you. They’ll review your medical history, including any known allergies or previous reactions to injections.
Orthovisc is injected directly into the knee joint using a pre-filled, single-use syringe. The procedure is quick, typically taking only a few minutes. Some patients might feel mild discomfort at the injection site, but this usually resolves spontaneously.
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 48 hours post-injection. Light activity is generally encouraged, as it helps distribute the hyaluronan contained in Orthovisc throughout the knee joint.
Like any medical treatment, Orthovisc may have side effects. These may include:
Orthovisc isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s important to discuss your medical history with your healthcare professional. Patients with known allergies to gram-positive bacterial proteins or those with skin diseases at the injection site should avoid this treatment. Additionally, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor, as the effects on breast milk are not well-studied.
Orthovisc is often compared to other sodium hyaluronate preparations. Its high molecular weight makes it a superior option for some patients. However, it might not be suitable for everyone. Those who have failed to respond adequately to conservative nonpharmacologic therapy might find Orthovisc particularly beneficial.
Most insurance carriers cover Orthovisc injections, but it’s essential to check with your provider. Discussing the cost and coverage with your healthcare professional will help avoid any unexpected expenses.
Orthovisc has been tested in numerous clinical trials, demonstrating its effectiveness and safety. Anika Therapeutics, the company behind Orthovisc, continues to research and improve their product to ensure the best outcomes for patients.
Orthovisc offers a promising solution for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis. Its unique formulation and proven benefits make it a valuable option for pain relief and improved joint function. If you’re dealing with chronic knee pain and asking, “What is Orthovisc?” consider discussing it with your doctor to see if it might be the right treatment for you.
Orthovisc is used to relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Orthovisc is administered as an intra-articular injection directly into the knee joint.
The pain relief from Orthovisc can last for up to six months.
Possible side effects include swelling, pain at the injection site, and rare allergic reactions.
Orthovisc is not suitable for individuals with known allergies to gram-positive bacterial proteins or skin diseases at the injection site.
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