Orthovisc, a viscosupplement therapy, has emerged as a promising option for managing joint pain and discomfort, offering new avenues for enhancing mobility and reducing inflammation. In this blog, we delve into the world of this treatment from a chiropractic standpoint, exploring its mechanism of action, benefits, and considerations for integrating it into chiropractic care plans.
Understanding Orthovisc:
Orthovisc is a type of viscosupplement, also known as hyaluronic acid injections, designed to alleviate pain and improve joint function in individuals suffering from osteoarthritis. Unlike traditional pain medications, which primarily target symptoms, these injections work by directly addressing the underlying cause of joint discomfort. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, serves as a lubricant and shock absorber within the joints, promoting smooth movement and cushioning the impact of physical activity.
How Orthovisc Works:
The primary goal of these injections is to supplement the natural hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid, which surrounds and lubricates the joints. In osteoarthritis, the synovial fluid becomes thinner and less effective at providing cushioning and lubrication, leading to increased friction and pain during movement. By injecting Orthovisc directly into the affected joint, chiropractors can replenish hyaluronic acid levels, restoring lubrication and reducing discomfort.
Benefits of Orthovisc in Chiropractic Care:
1. Pain Relief: Orthovisc injections have been shown to provide significant pain relief for individuals with osteoarthritis, allowing them to engage in chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitative exercises more comfortably.
2. Improved Mobility: By restoring joint lubrication and cushioning, the injections help improve range of motion and mobility, enabling chiropractic patients to move more freely and participate in daily activities with greater ease.
3. Non-Surgical Approach: Unlike invasive surgical procedures, the injections offer a minimally invasive treatment option for joint pain, making it suitable for patients who prefer to avoid surgery or are not candidates for surgical intervention.
4. Complementary to Chiropractic Care: Orthovisc can complement chiropractic adjustments and other manual therapies by addressing underlying joint issues and enhancing the effectiveness of treatment modalities.
Considerations for Integrating Orthovisc into Chiropractic Practice:
1. Patient Selection: Not all patients with joint pain may be suitable candidates for Orthovisc therapy. Chiropractors should carefully assess each patients medical history, severity of osteoarthritis, and treatment goals to determine the appropriateness of the injections.
2. Treatment Protocol: The injections are typically administered as a series of injections over several weeks, depending on the individual
patient’s needs and response to treatment. Chiropractors should develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s condition and preferences.
3. Collaborative Care: Effective management of osteoarthritis often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving chiropractic care, physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Chiropractors should collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for their patients.
Conclusion:
This treatment represents a promising adjunctive therapy for chiropractors seeking to optimize joint health and alleviate pain in patients with osteoarthritis. By replenishing hyaluronic acid levels and enhancing joint lubrication, the injections offer a non-surgical approach to managing joint discomfort, improving mobility, and enhancing the effectiveness of chiropractic care.
Please reach out at 813-994-0151.
Our address is 20433 Bruce B Downs Blvd Tampa, FL 33647.
https://wesleychapelspineandsportsmedicine.com/
