Supartz Injections in Thousand Oaks
Supartz is a hyaluronic acid–based fluid designed to mimic the natural fluid that surrounds and lubricates the joints. This joint fluid helps absorb shock and keeps joints moving smoothly, but its levels decrease with age and with arthritis, leading to pain and stiffness. At Performance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists in Thousand Oaks, CA offer Supartz injections to restore lubrication and cushioning in painful joints when other treatments have not provided relief.
Request an AppointmentHow Supartz Injections Work
Healthy joints are surrounded by synovial fluid rich in hyaluronic acid, which acts as both a lubricant and a shock absorber. When this fluid breaks down, cartilage wears more quickly and bone may begin rubbing against bone. Supartz replenishes the joint’s lubrication, helping reduce friction, cushion the joint, and ease pain.
During the procedure, Supartz is injected directly into the affected joint. Patients typically receive one injection per week for three to five weeks to achieve the maximum benefit, and relief can last for several months.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Supartz?
Supartz injections are typically recommended for patients with joint pain from osteoarthritis who have not found adequate relief from conservative treatments such as:
- Custom orthotics and supportive footwear
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- MLS laser therapy
Supartz may also help patients who want to delay or avoid joint surgery. Your podiatrist will use in-office digital x-rays to evaluate your joint and determine whether Supartz is appropriate.
What You Should Know Before Treatment
Supartz is not right for everyone. You should not receive a Supartz injection if there is an active infection in or around the affected joint. Tell your doctor if you have blood clots or circulation problems in your legs. Patients who are allergic to birds, feathers, or eggs may also be allergic to Supartz and may not be good candidates. Supartz has not been approved for use in anyone under the age of 21.
Aftercare Instructions
After each injection, let the treated area rest for the next 48 hours. Try not to stand for more than one hour at a time, and avoid strenuous activities such as running, jogging, or heavy lifting during this period.
Possible Side Effects
Mild side effects may include:
- Redness, warmth, or pain at the injection site
- Mild swelling
- Nausea
- Numbness
- Headache or dizziness
- Stuffy nose and sore throat
These side effects are considered normal and usually resolve within a day or so. However, hives, difficulty breathing, and facial swelling are signs of an allergic reaction and require immediate medical attention.
To find out whether Supartz injections can relieve your joint pain, call (805) 273-1415 to schedule an appointment with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supartz Injections
What is Supartz?
Supartz is a hyaluronic acid–based injection that mimics the natural lubricating fluid in the joints, helping to cushion the joint and reduce pain caused by arthritis.
How many Supartz injections will I need?
Most patients receive one injection per week for three to five weeks to achieve the maximum benefit.
How long does Supartz pain relief last?
Many patients experience relief that lasts several months. The treatment series may be repeated if symptoms return.
Do Supartz injections hurt?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the injection, similar to other joint injections. Some redness or soreness at the injection site may occur afterward.
Who should not receive Supartz injections?
Patients with an infection near the joint, those allergic to birds, feathers, or eggs, and anyone under 21 should not receive Supartz. Tell your doctor about any circulation problems or blood clots.
What should I avoid after a Supartz injection?
For 48 hours after each injection, avoid standing for more than an hour at a time and avoid strenuous activities like running, jogging, or heavy lifting.
Is Supartz better than a cortisone injection?
Cortisone reduces inflammation quickly but is typically shorter-acting, while Supartz lubricates the joint and may provide longer-lasting relief. Your podiatrist will recommend the best option for you.