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Advantages of Total Knee Replacement?
This is a question that only you can answer. You need to look at your current quality of life, and determine the risks and benefits of total knee replacement now verses ......
Synvisc or Euflexxa?
These are just two of several agents used in OA called viscosupplements which contain hyaluronic acid. The medications you mention are inected directly into the knee joint once a week for ......
Options with Coumadin
There are several important considerations for the management of arthritis pain in patients who take coumadin (also called warfarin), which is a blood thinner. Coumadin increases the propensity to bleed if ......
Thumb arthritis and hyaluronic acid injections
HI Gail, Usually once there is progression of arthritis to bone-on-bone, surgery is the most effective treatment. Injections of hyaluronic acid are of limited value in bone-on-bone, end-stage joints. Plus, most of ......
supartz and meniscal tear
No, Supartz does not treat a torn meniscus. It is a joint lubricant, so it can help reduce pain associated with chronic damage to cartilage from osteoarthritis....
Osteoarthritis and elliptical exercise machines
HI Linda, I can\'t answer specifically for you, but in general elliptical machines are good for folks with knee arthritis since the knee is held fairly stable during the rotations. Also, ......
supartz injections
HI Sandra, There are no clinical trials to say how many courses of shots a patient can take, and what their long-term safety might be. However, in many cases, we do ......
How much ibuprofen?
HI Marilyn, The amount of ibuprofen recommended to an individual patient all depends upon their age, kidney function, history of any bowel or stomach disease. You should check with your doctor ......
Bone on bone knee arthritis in avid biker
HI Peter, Unfortunately, there is no proven remedy yet for slowing progression of osteoarthritis other than weight loss. But I am betting that you are not overweight, so that doesn't help. ......
Heberden's nodes and osteoarthritis
Dear Donna, Heberden's nodes, as you know, are the enlarged bony swellings in the joints at the ends of the fingers. They can be disfiguring and painful. However, they are just as ......
Cartilage Replacement vs. Knee Replacement Surgery
Autologous cartilage replacements have met with limited success, as they tend to not be as durable as native cartilage. In addition, they are only appropriate for people with very small areas ......
Treatment options for Osteoarthritis
Everyone is different. When osteoarthritis becomes very advanced, most of our treatments are not very effective. Hyaluronic acid injections might be tried since some individuals might respond better than others. Other ......
Synvisc vs. Cortisone
I use cortisone more than Synvisc because you only have to receive one injection and the effect often lasts just as long....
Finding a Trainer for Arthritis Treatment
We recommend you check into your local gym for trainers. Ask for one who has done some medical training....
High Tibial Osteotomy
We are not orthopedists, so we don't know all of those networks. However, this is a pretty common procedure among orthopedists....
Arthritis in the Elbow
Osteoarthritis almost never occurs in the elbow unless there has been extensive trauma. The usual causes of damage to the elbow are from inflammatory types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, ......
Osteoarthritis in the Neck and Fusion
Consultation with an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon would be appropriate. It all depends on the severity of the symptoms, what the xrays show, and whether there is nerve compression or muscle ......
Hip pain a groin pull or arthritis?
In a situation like this, the hip injection makes a lot of sense. If the hip pain improves with the injection, then the pain is likely due to arthritis. Alternatively, it ......
Can Rooster Combs repair torn knee cartiladge?
Hyaluronic acid injections (Hyalgan, Synvisc, Supart) are made from rooster combs. They are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. They cannot repair torn cartilage, though....
Reducing the pain caused by Synvisc knee injections.
Knee injections can be painful. But the treating physician has options to make them less painful. One is to spray a topical anesthetic over the site of injection. Another is to ......
How young is too young for knee replacements?
These are good questions that would be best discussed with an orthopedic surgeon. However, in general, it is true that waiting for a first knee replacement until older age is the ......
Inflammatory Reaction to Synvisc
An inflammatory reaction to Synvisc has been well described as a potential side effect....
Importance of placement of knee injection needle!
You are referring to injections of hyaluronic acid into the knees for osteoarthritis. The trade names are Synvisc, Hyalgan and Supartz. Hyaluronic acid is part of the normal joint lubricant and ......
OA- aspirin allergies
Review your symptoms of aspirin allergies carefully with your doctor or allergist. Many times patients report an allergy to aspirin but can take other non-steroidal antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs). If NSAIDs are ......
Osteoarthritis
See our section on OA treatment. Arguably the only effective treatment is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and the newer COX-2 agents Celebrex, Vioxx, Bextra. We're in desperate ......
UniSpacer surgery for Knee Oseoarthritis
I think you may be an ideal candidate for both those approaches-- a young person with only uni-compartmental disease. The easiest to try is the brace-- it is cumbersome and weighty ......
The use of vertebroplasty in Arthritis of the Knee
Vertebroplasty cannot be used for OA of the knees. Since one theory is that cartilage damage in OA is caused by increased hardening and compaction of bone on the tibial surface ......
Why isn't there more information for osteoarthritis?
I agree. But the bottom line is that we need new and better treatments for osteoarthritis and then there would be greater interest in managing the disease. Certainly, there is quite ......
Forestier's disease
Forestier's disease is often called DISH or diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis. It is a variant of degenerative arthritis of the spine in which large bony spurs (osteophytes) form on the vertebrae ......
Left Knee OsteoArthritis
There are many "partial" knee replacements that replace only one of the damaged compartments. A highly advertised one is called the "unispacer". Most orthopedic surgeons have limited enthusiasm for these procedures ......
hip joint
There are several issues. The first is whether the pain is coming from your true hip joint or is related to your back or soft tissues such as a trochanteric bursa. ......
Cortisone shots for OA in the knee
This is an inexact science, but I limit the injections to once every 6 months and at most 3 times a year for OA joints. Steriods can weaken the ligament and ......
Growing New Cartliage
This procedue is being done in the U.S. but not for osteoarthritis but for conditions where the defect in the cartilage is small. The cartilage defects in OA are too large ......
How to reduce pain in arthritic knees
It is difficult to say without seeing your mother. Possibilities include cortisone injections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, viscosupplementation (Hylagan, synvisc)., physical therapy and low doses of analgesics. Knee replacement, as you mentioned is ......
Surgery or n o t ???
Likely you will need joint replacement. The decision is based on your pain and disability, not so much on the x-ray changes....
Negative reactions to Synvisc?
There are very few as Synvisc is not systemically absorbed. From the injections, there is a minimal risk of infections and bleeding. Of course there is pain from the injections. I ......
Synvisc injections for the wrist
I am not aware of any published information on Synvisc in the wrist. You might ask your surgeon. I have never injected Synvisc into the wrist so I can't comment on ......
joint space
The indications for joint replacement are based on symptoms-- specifically pain and disability. It is not understood why, but there are many patients with severe joint space narrowing but no pain ......
OA night pains
End stage or severely damaged joints from OA often cause night time pain. Make sure that the pain is not coming from muscle spasm or neuropathic pain. If this pain is ......
Knee resurfacing
I think it is still too early to tell and it will depend on how much arthritis there is in the knee....
Joint lubrication
Injections of synvisc, hyalagan or supartz are injections of a synthetic version hyalauronic acid which is thought to aid in joint "lubrication". However, these the material in these injections do not ......
Hip/Groin Pain
Although some physicians administer it and it makes sense that it would work, it is not FDA approved for the hip, only the knee....
Are SUPARTZ knee injections effective
Supartz and the similar drugs Hyalagan and Synvisc are synthetic versions of hyaluronic acid, the normal lubricant in the knee. The exact mechanism of how these drugs work when injected into ......
osteoarthritis
Contact your local social services agency to see if there are physicians or hospitals in your area who have agreed to provide services at reduced rates....
Vioxx
One option might be to take an older NSAID together with a medication to prtect your stomach such as Prilosec, Prevacid or similar product. Talk to your doctor again....
Osteoarthritis Pain Management
The pain and stiffness at night and with the initiation of movement or "gel phenomenon" is difficult to treat. Muscle relaxants such as Flexeril or low dose amitriptyline can be helpful. ......
knee replacement
The longevity of the replacements an vary widely, with 10 years often quoted as an average. Obesity worsens outcome. You need to exercise to keep your weight down and to keep ......
Re: Osteoarthritis and hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid (HA)-(Synvisc, Supartz, Hylgan, Orthovisc) are currently only approved for OA of the knees. Although I am aware that some physicians are using it in the hip off label, I ......
Knee Pain Baker's Cyst Treatment
Injection of steroid into the knee joint generally is all that is necessary. Improvement occurs over several days and by a few weeks the symptoms are gone completely....
Topical NSAID from recent newsletter
These are drugs currently only available in Europe and are undergoing study in the U.S. for FDA approval. They are diclofenac (Voltaren) in the form of a gel and spray that ......
Hylgan
Hylgan is a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid, the natural lubricant in the knee. The exact mechanism of how it works in the knee is not totally clear-- soem believe that ......
Hyalgan knee injections
Side effects are minimal as the material does not get systemically absorbed. Very rarely, inflammation can occur in the joint immediately after the injection. Your symptosm do not sound like a ......
walking and osteoarthritis
Walking, although likely not damaging to the knee, often makes the pain worse. However, for most walking is an enjoyable, easily availale exercise. If possible,try to lessen the impact by finding ......
knee injection steroid
It is difficult to predict how long a steroid injection into the knee for osteoarthritis will last. Some patients get only a few days of relief, others can last months. In ......
knee surgery
I am not sure exactly what device you are referring to. However, these types of procedures are generally not recommended for osteoarthritis where the cartilage defect is large....
Combining Celebrex and Warfarin Tabs Prescriptions
Because of the coumadin, he has very few choices. Chronic opioids (narcotics) can be used for chronic pain , but many patients do not like being on these agents. I would ......
pain during synvisc injection
Although the injections can be painful, they are generally "tolerable". In my experience, virtually patients finish the injection series. If the arthritis of the knee is severe, the joint space can ......
viscosupplementatioon
A synthetic version of hyaluronic acid, a normal "lubricant" in the knee....
Viscosupplementation for severe OA?
In general, the only downside of trying is the chance that it won't work....
Osteoarthritis and cycling
Although exercise can worsen pain of osteoarthritis, there is no good proof that it makes the disease worse (meaning it does not cause more cartilage loss). Your mum needs to find ......
Synvisc Treatment
Yes, many patients find a second course beneficial. But remember that your arthritis may get worse over time....
Therapeutic Taping
Taping of the knee is particularly effective in patients who have patellofemoral (under the kneecap) arthritis. Seek a physical therapist for help....
chronic pain treatment
The medications you list are often used for chronic pain, but I think the response to them is variable. I think you have to try them to find out. They should ......
Osteoarthritis of knees & treatment options
There are partial knee replacements and realignment of the knees with a procedure called an osteotomy. Make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in total joint replacement to discuss ......
HYALGAN TREATMENT THAT WEARS OFF
Some opt for a repeat series of Hyalagan treatments, particularly if you have gotten relief for a number of months. But if the relief has been short lived, then you might ......
Re: Hyalagan injection for knees
There are several new viscosupplements to hit the market. Since they have never been compared head to head, it is difficult to tell if they are any better than the older ......
Knee replacement surgery
Your are right that opinions will vary from one surgeon to another. The rationale for doing both knees at once is that the "bad", non-operated on knee will prevent rehabilitation from ......
doxycycline and osteoarthritis
The clinical trial information has had mixed results- some trials showing benefit, others not. If there is a benefit, it is likely very modest. Dr. Ken Brandt has been interested in ......
Repeated Synvisc usage
I am not aware of any studies looking at more than 2 of 3 series of these products. In some patients it works over repeated courses. It just hasn't been studied, ......
Osteoarthritis Management for Runners
For other readers, although running is likely not a cause of knee osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis certainly becomes more painful during running. Running, particulary on hard surfaces is very stressful on the knees. ......
Weight and Knee pain
You need to develop an exercise program that is non- or minimal weight bearing on the knees. Swimming is good. Many patients are able to tolerate an elliptical exercise machine. Sessions ......
Unusual treatment
Hyaluronic acid injections (Hyalgan, Synvisc, Supartz) are made from rooster combs....
CMC arthritis at age 32, too young for surgery?
Tendon transposition for the osteoarthritis of the first CMC joint in my experience has been fairly successful, but it does require some rehabilitation to regain full function. However, I do not ......
knee injection steroid
It is difficult to predict how long a steroid injection into the knee for osteoarthritis will last. Some patients get only a few days of relief, others can last months. In ......
knee surgery
I am not sure exactly what device you are referring to. However, these types of procedures are generally not recommended for osteoarthritis where the cartilage defect is large....
Combining Celebrex and Warfarin Tabs Prescriptions
Because of the coumadin, he has very few choices. Chronic opioids (narcotics) can be used for chronic pain , but many patients do not like being on these agents. I would ......
pain during synvisc injection
Although the injections can be painful, they are generally "tolerable". In my experience, virtually patients finish the injection series. If the arthritis of the knee is severe, the joint space can ......
viscosupplementatioon
A synthetic version of hyaluronic acid, a normal "lubricant" in the knee....
Viscosupplementation for severe OA?
In general, the only downside of trying is the chance that it won't work....
Partial Knee Replacement
This should be discussed in greater detail with an orthopedic surgeon. Partial knee replacement refers to the repalce only of one compartment of the knee (sucha s the medial or lateral ......
Osteoarthritis and Cycling
Although exercise can worsen pain of osteoarthritis, there is no good proof that it makes the disease worse (meaning it does not cause more cartilage loss). Your mum needs to find ......
Synvisc Treatment
Yes, many patients find a second course beneficial. But remember that your arthritis may get worse over time....
Osteoarthritis & Food
There are no foods shown scientifically to cause OA flare ups. That is not to say that I haven't heard plenty of patients who swear that there are certain foods that ......
Is it time for hip replacement?????
No one can tell you how much pain you should tolerate or how much disability or diminished quality of life you need to endure. You certainly seem to be making a ......
Therapeutic Taping
Taping of the knee is particularly effective in patients who have patellofemoral (under the kneecap) arthritis. Seek a physical therapist for help....
chronic pain treatment
The medications you list are often used for chronic pain, but I think the response to them is variable. I think you have to try them to find out. They should ......
Osteoarthritis of knees & treatment options
There are partial knee replacements and realignment of the knees with a procedure called an osteotomy. Make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in total joint replacement to discuss ......
Hylagan Treatment That Wears Off
Some opt for a repeat series of Hyalagan treatments, particularly if you have gotten relief for a number of months. But if the relief has been short lived, then you might ......
Knee replacement surgery
Your are right that opinions will vary from one surgeon to another. The rationale for doing both knees at once is that the "bad", non-operated on knee will prevent rehabilitation from ......
Doxycycline and Osteoarthritis
The clinical trial information has had mixed results- some trials showing benefit, others not. If there is a benefit, it is likely very modest. Dr. Ken Brandt has been interested in ......
Repeated Synvisc usage
I am not aware of any studies looking at more than 2 of 3 series of these products. In some patients it works over repeated courses. It just hasn't been studied, ......
