Knee pain due to osteoarthritis can be a painful and disabling condition. This occurs when wear and tear and aging cause the protective synovial fluid and cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away. Synovial fluid is a lubricant that protects the joint from friction during movement. Hyalgan is a prescription brand name for sodium hyaluronate, a chemical substance that is similar to synovial fluid. Hyalgan is injected into the joint to help replace the protective shock absorbing fluid of the knee and reduce pain and inflammation. These injections are performed by a doctor and help to prevent and treat osteoarthritis of the knee. Your doctor can prescribe this treatment if it is suitable for you.
Step 1
Consult your doctor about your knee joint pain. Your doctor will decide if Hyalgan injections are right for you. Sodium hyaluronate is also available in other forms, such as creams and supplements.
Step 2
Visit your doctor's clinic for your Hyalgan sodium hyaluronate treatment. This medication is administered with an intra-articular injection in the affected knee joints. Your doctor will advise what dosage is required and how many injections you will need. Hyalgan injections are usually given once a week for a total of three to five weeks. Contact your doctor for instructions on what to do if you miss a dose.
Step 3
Wait at least 60 days after the last Hyalgan dosage to assess any improvement in the knee joint. Hyalgan helps to rebuild and replace synovial fluid in the joint, easing pain and inflammation over time. Other concurrent treatments for osteoarthritis your doctor may recommend include anti-inflammatory and pain medication, rest, wearing a knee brace and using warm or cold compresses. Follow-up with your doctor for your knee pain. Some people may need additional Hyalgan injections after a few months.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid strenuous or weight-bearing physical activity for 48 hours after each Hyalgan injection. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions on how to care for your knee joints to prevent further pain and damage to the joint due to arthritis. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy and other treatment during or after your course of Hyalgan.
- Hyalgan sodium hyaluronate should not be given to pregnant or nursing women, as the side effects to the baby are not yet known. Also, avoid this treatment if you have an infection within the joint or on the surrounding skin. Bird and egg products may be used in the preparation of this medication and can cause an allergic reaction. Inform your doctor if you have an allergy to eggs or birds before receiving Hyalgan injections.
Things You'll Need
- Hyalgan prescription injection
- Doctor's appointments
