Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...
Since I have had my second injection today I am starting to see a little relief although for a few hours after I needed to elevate it and put some ice on it. And if its anything like last week I will also need to take it easy Saturday (tomorrow). But so far Im not opposing them as long as they help me to put off the total knee replacement for awhile. MY doc uses an ultrasound machine to make a tiny mark on the exact location to put the fluid (with a Sharpie) and then he numbs the area first. He talks to me the whole time such as my plans for the weekend and such to help me stay relaxed.
I wish you well with it.
I have had Synvisc, Euflexxa, and OrthoVisc shots in my knee. I am currently on my fifth round of these type medications and my most recent shot was OrthoVisc this past Wednesday.
Synvisc is one of the older type medications in this class and, by far, has the most allergic reactions to it. I did absolutely fine with it though.
I do not have any cartilage in my left knee and these injections provide lubrication, cushion the knee joint, and reduce pain because your joint is now able to move more easily.
Orthopedic physicians like to see this medication work for at least one year but they now seem to work only eight to nine months for me.
The great part is that most insurance companies will approve this therapy every six months.
If your knee is giving you problems, I believe you will be happy to have chosen this route!
Take care,
TheWino
Jane