In today’s world, millions of people are suffering from osteoarthritis. It’s a degenerative joint disease that causes loss of the protective layer covering the bone surface (the cartilage), resulting in joint pain, stiffness and difficulty in movement. Luckily, a few treatment procedures are available for doctors to manage the symptoms of arthritis. In case of flare-ups, people with osteoarthritis will experience immense joint pain. Conventional treatments may not always be suitable to achieve adequate control of symptoms. If you are not getting any results with your treatment procedure, try to approach a more effective way to reduce pain. Durolane injections are a popular alternative treatment for osteoarthritis. The Hyaluronic acid content in the injectable reduces the inflammation associated with the wear and tear in the joint and provides more efficient lubrication.
Osteoarthritis: Symptoms and Challenges
Osteoarthritis occurs due to wear and tear in the cartilage. This is the major form of arthritis affecting people worldwide. Osteoarthrosis mostly affects the knees, hips, shoulders and the spine. Patients may experience immense joint pain, stiffness and movement restriction. Conventional management includes pain medications, physical therapy, weight management, and lifestyle modifications. Extreme flare-ups of arthritis pain can be debilitating, and steroid injections for shoulders are a common method of managing these episodes. However, these approaches may not always provide adequate relief, prompting individuals to explore alternative treatments like Duralone injections.
Duralone Injections: An Overview
Duralone injections contain high molecular weight Hyaluronic acid injected directly into the affected joint. Hyaluronic acid provides cushioning and lubricant effects for the joint and helps eliminate toxic substances harmful to the cartilage. These injections are performed by healthcare professionals and guided by imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure accurate needle placement.
Mechanism of Action
Durolane injections increase joint lubrication; therefore, its effect is usually described as “viscosupplementation”. It also exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on the joint. This typically reduces the pain and swelling significantly. This way, Duralone injections reduce pain, enhance joint movement, and improve life quality.
Benefits of Duralone Injections for Osteoarthritis
Pain Relief
Duralone injections offer effective pain relief due to their viscosupplement effect and reduce joint inflammation. By reducing inflammation, individuals experience decreased pain intensity and improved mobility.
Convenience
Unlike oral medications, Durolane injections deliver the medication directly to the affected joint, minimising the risk of systemic complications. Additionally, injections are typically administered in a healthcare setting, ensuring proper technique and minimising the chance of errors.
Reduced Reliance on Oral Medications
For individuals taking multiple oral medications for pain management, Duralone injections provide an alternative approach that may reduce the need for oral drugs, potentially minimising side effects and drug interactions.
Less frequent medical intervention
Duralone injections are highly effective in managing arthritis pain, and the benefit can last up to six months. Many other pain management techniques, such as steroid injections for shoulders, last only about three months, typically shorter than Duralone.
Improved mobility
This form of Hyaluronic acid comprising Duralone injections has high molecular weight making it more stable as it takes longer to break down. This allows it to manage symptoms of pain for far longer effectively. It also significantly improves mobility, and the need to undergo surgical/replacement procedures can be deferred.
Considerations and Efficacy
Patient Selection
Durolane injections generally suit individuals who have not responded adequately to conservative treatments and experience mild or moderate forms of osteoarthritis. Proper patient selection and evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the appropriateness of this treatment approach.
Duration of Effect
The duration of pain relief from Durolane injections varies among individuals. Some experience several months of relief, while others may require more frequent injections. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to determine each individual’s most suitable treatment plan.
Potential Side Effects
While Durolane injections are generally considered safe, they carry potential side effects. These can include temporary discomfort at the injection site, a slight risk of infection, and, rarely, allergic reactions. Discussing these risks with a healthcare professional and weighing them against the potential benefits before proceeding with Duralone injections is crucial.
Integration with Other Treatments
You can use Durolane injections in conjunction with other osteoarthritis treatments, such as physical therapy, assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications. A comprehensive approach combining multiple strategies may provide the best pain management outcomes and improve joint function.
Clinical Evidence and Success Rates
Research supports Durolane injections as an effective treatment option for osteoarthritis. Patients who have received this treatment report experiencing less difficulty with movement and daily tasks. However, it’s important to note that treatment outcomes may vary, and not everyone who receives Duralone injections will experience the same level of relief.
Conclusion
If conventional treatments have failed to achieve adequate pain relief, Durolane injections are a very good option. Duralone is a high molecular weight form of Hyaluronic acid, a natural substance within the lining of our joints. It is effective in managing joint pain and other symptoms of osteoarthritis. It is the preferred injection option for mild and moderate osteoarthritis. Ultrasound guidance ensures accurate delivery of the medicine to the joint. Before going through this treatment, patients must consult their doctor and understand the other treatment options for osteoarthritis.
