I'm getting ready to start series of Synvisc injections into my knees. Does anyone have any experience with this and will it help? Also did your insurance pay for this?

Hhhmm, is it a cortisone shot? I had cortisone shots in my knees several times, but dont know what kind it was. My insurance paid a portion, I think. I have terrible insurance, so I'm sure they didnt pay it all. I have such a huge tab with them, I stopped breaking it down. Anyway, yes, it was the only thing that helped at that time.

No, it is not a cortisone shot. From what I understand, it is like a lubricant that can be injected in the knees and hips. Whatever it is, I sure hope it helps. I'll post results when I have them.

A lady I know had gel injected into her hip last Thursday and on following Sunday was praising how well it worked, she was 98% free of pain. I have no idea how long pain relief will last.

Hmm... I can't say that I have tried injections. My problem lies more with my hands than enything else. Just to let you know, I've been taking a natural supplement called Flex Protex for several months now and it's really helped me a lot. It's a fairly cheap supplement if you're concerned about cost (it seems like you might be), and I haven't experienced any side effects from it. You should check it out. Either way, I hope things work out well for you.

I am getting another brand just like synvisc. I am in the middle of my 3rd series. I had each series about one year apart. I do find it helpful but not a complete cure. My work requires a lot of walking and I need all the help I can get! I do have insurance coverage for it, but I don't know if all insurance covers it.

I had the first of 3 injections yesterday. I was expecting them to be painful but they really were'nt. My knees are feeling a little better today so maybe this will work. This is a combination lubricant and mixture of what makes up the normal fluid in the joints. If it works, I have read that it lasts from 6 to 10 months. So far I'm optimistic.

I have had 2 series of Synvisc infections. I have it done every 12 months. My left knee needs a replacement and the injections have help me put off having knee replacement surgery.

I see my doctor on Wednesday and I think it is time to get the injections again.

Synvisc is the greatest thing ever in my opinion. Coming from someone with no cartlige left in my knee.

Kim

Synvisc, which is not a steriod, is a replacement therapy for the lubricants that are often missing in the knee joint when you have arthritis. It serves to lubricate the area so the knee glides better.
There are a series of 3 injections that are done a few weeks apart for a total of 7 weeks I think it is. Most individuals do not respond until the second set.
It has a 50% chance of working but is a last resort prior to a TKR.
There are several brands on the market currently and it can last from 6 months to a year before re-treatment is required.

Barbie

I had the last of the 3 injections today. So far there is improvement but am not totally pain free. I think it will prolong having surgery so that's good news to me.

That's awesome news! It isn't actually supposed to make you totally pain free, in fact it rarely does but it does exactly as you said, prolong the need and reduce some amount of pain. It may get better for you over the coming weeks still!

Barbie