Joint Lubrication Therapy
in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Viscosupplementation therapy restores natural lubrication in arthritic joints. By injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint space, this treatment reduces friction, cushions the joint, and improves function.
What Is Viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid (a naturally occurring substance that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber in healthy joints) directly into an arthritic joint. As osteoarthritis progresses, the natural hyaluronic acid in joint fluid breaks down, leading to increased friction, pain, and stiffness.
By restoring this lubrication, viscosupplementation can reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and potentially slow the progression of cartilage damage. The treatment is most commonly used for knee osteoarthritis but can be applied to other joints as well.
Dr. Bhakta performs viscosupplementation under imaging guidance when appropriate to ensure accurate placement within the joint space, maximizing the treatment's effectiveness.
Conditions Treated
Knee Osteoarthritis
The most common indication, reduces friction and pain in arthritic knees.
Hip Osteoarthritis
Joint lubrication can improve mobility in arthritic hips.
Shoulder Arthritis
Restoring cushioning in arthritic shoulder joints.
General Joint Arthritis
Degenerative joint changes causing stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain.
Spinal Osteoarthritis
Degenerative arthritis of the spinal facet joints producing back pain.
Ankle & Foot Arthritis
Arthritic wear in the ankle and foot causing pain with weight-bearing.
Learn More from Trusted Medical Sources
Knee Gel Injections (Viscosupplementation)
Cleveland Clinic
Hyaluronic Acid Injection (Knee)
Mayo Clinic
These links are provided for educational purposes. They do not constitute medical advice. Always consult Dr. Bhakta for personalized treatment recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bhadresh L. Bhakta, M.D.
Board-Certified Interventional Pain Specialist
Fellowship trained in Pain Medicine at Vanderbilt University. Board Certified for decades. Formerly served as Associate Professor at OU School of Medicine. Serving Tulsa since 2000.
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