Synovial Fluid Replacement Therapy

Summary of the Therapy

lubricates the joint and restores the elastic properties of the fluid

ability to act as a shock absorber

movement of the joint becomes easier and more comfortable

decreases pain for up to six months and also improves function in patients with OA of the knee

patient's reliance on other pain relieving medications is significantly reduced

available on Medical Card Scheme

may delay necessity for knee replacement surgery

effective in treating patients with early to middle stage arthritis who wish to improve their function and reduce pain

effective in patients with more advanced arthritis who may experience delays in receiving a total joint replacement

valuable tool for GPs whose patients find themselves on long waiting lists to see an orthopaedic surgeon

effective use in treatment of sports injuries particularly in the knee

can prevent further loss of cartilage

may stimulate the natural production of synovial fluid by the body a process know as visco-induction

is a longer lasting alternative which is safe and could help to reduce dependence on anti-inflammatory medication

Is Synovial Fluid Replacement Therapy Painful?

No, Synovial Fluid Replacement Therapy is not painful. Naturally, as with all injections, there is mild and short-lasting discomfort during the actual procedure, but aside from this Synovial Fluid Replacement Therapy is virtually painless. Often your physician will use a topical anaesthetic to reduce the discomfort.

If there is considerable inflammation around the joint, the physician may remove some of the excess fluid (exudate) prior to an injection.

Synovial Fluid Replacement Therapy can be an effective alternative for all stages of Osteoarthritis.