Are Viscosupplementation (Rooster Comb / Hyaluronic Acid) Injections Right for You?

Viscosupplementation (Rooster Comb / Hyaluronic Acid) Injections

WHAT IS IT?  Hyaluronic acid , also known as viscosupplementation injection or rooster comb injection, is used for the treatment of knee, hip, shoulder, elbow and ankle osteoarthritis. Currently it is only FDA/insurance approved for the knee, although studies are currently been performed on all other joints. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that is normally present in healthy cartilage. In unhealthy or arthritic cartilage, the levels of hyaluronic acids are lower. These injections can help control pain, provide lubrication, and replace hyaluronic acid in the joint. The injection also stimulates your joint to make more of this important molecule.

WHAT HAPPENS? There are a series of 3 injections , 1 week apart. These injections have been shown to improve symptoms in MOST patients. The benefit of these injections is temporary and typically lasts anywhere from 3 months to 1 year. Hyaluronic Acid injections work best in mild to moderate arthritis.

HOW MUCH IS IT? Most insurance will cover the cost of Supartz Injections. WAKE SPORTS MEDICINE will check with your carrier prior to performing the injections.

RISKS OF INJECTION

Post-injection Inflammatory Reaction: This is an uncommon reaction, which may occur after a hyaluronic acid injection. This reaction occurs within 24-hours of the injection and is characterized by increased swelling and pain in the injected joint. There is usually no redness of the overlying skin, although the joint may feel warm. Icing the area for up to 20 minutes at a time using an ice pack covered with towel can be helpful; do not apply ice directly to your skin. Tylenol (acetaminophen) or an anti-inflammatory such as Advil® (ibuprofen) can be used to help control the pain. If the pain and swelling lasts longer than 3 days, notify your doctor.

Infection: The risk of infection is extremely low. Studies have indicated that the risk of infection after this injection is 1/10,000 injections. Signs of infection include a fever and/or chills, and pain, warmth and redness around the area of the injection.

OUR LOCATION - WHERE IS WAKE NONSURGICAL ORTHO?

3237 Blue Ridge Rd.

Raleigh, NC 27612

Phone: (919) 719-2270

Mon-Fri: 8 am- 3pm

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