From the Guidelines
Pain after a Monovisc injection is common and typically resolves within a few days, and to manage this discomfort, applying ice and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs are recommended. The management of pain after a Monovisc injection should prioritize reducing inflammation and discomfort while minimizing the risk of complications. According to the EULAR recommendations for intra-articular therapies 1, the aim of such treatments is to improve patient-centered outcomes, which include benefits, harms, preferences, or implications for self-management.
Management Strategies
To manage pain after a Monovisc injection, consider the following strategies:
- Apply ice to the affected knee for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first 24-48 hours.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at 500-1000mg every 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4000mg daily, as conditionally recommended by the American College of Rheumatology for the initial management of knee OA 1.
- Alternatively, use NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) at 400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food if there are no contraindications.
- Rest the joint for 24-48 hours, avoiding strenuous activities, but gentle movement is beneficial.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
It is essential to monitor the pain and watch for signs of complications. If the pain is severe, persists beyond 3-5 days, or is accompanied by significant swelling, redness, warmth, or fever, contact your healthcare provider as these could indicate infection or other complications. The American College of Rheumatology recommendations also emphasize the importance of considering the patient's overall health and potential contraindications when selecting pharmacologic therapies for knee OA 1.
Contextual Factors
Contextual factors such as effective communication, patient expectations, or the setting in which the procedure takes place can influence the outcome of intra-articular therapies, including the management of pain after a Monovisc injection 1. Recognizing the magnitude of the placebo effect associated with this route of delivery is also crucial. By considering these factors and following the recommended management strategies, patients can effectively manage pain after a Monovisc injection and improve their quality of life.
From the Research
Pain after Monovisc Injection
- Monovisc is a type of hyaluronic acid injection used to treat osteoarthritis pain in the knee 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid injections, including Monovisc, can provide pain relief for patients with osteoarthritis, although the effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific product used 3, 4.
- Some studies have compared the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections to other treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, and found that they can be equally effective in reducing pain and improving function 2, 5.
- The mechanism of action of hyaluronic acid injections, including Monovisc, is thought to be related to their ability to lubricate the joint and reduce inflammation, which can help to reduce pain and improve mobility 3, 6.
Potential Side Effects
- As with any injection, there is a risk of side effects with Monovisc, including pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site 2, 3.
- Some patients may also experience more serious side effects, such as infection or allergic reactions, although these are rare 5, 6.
- It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Monovisc with a healthcare provider before receiving the injection 2, 3.
Comparison to Other Treatments
- Monovisc has been compared to other treatments for osteoarthritis, including corticosteroid injections and physical therapy, and has been found to be equally effective in reducing pain and improving function in some studies 2, 4.
- However, the effectiveness of Monovisc can vary depending on the individual and the specific product used, and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and limitations 3, 5.
- Healthcare providers can help patients determine the best course of treatment for their osteoarthritis, including whether Monovisc or other treatments may be suitable 2, 6.