Synthetic lubricant injections for arthritis

As a physical therapist who treats osteoarthritis of the knee on a daily basis, I've for quite some time questioned the efficacy of synthetic lubricant injections in the knee. Normally the body's joints are lined with articular cartilage to prevent bone on bone movement. Also, a fluid called synovial fluid is produced to act as the lubricating "oil" within the joints. As we age, both out cartilage and synovial fluids are reduced. This is particularly common in the weight bearing joints such as knees and hips. Physician have for years used a synthetic lubricant to help decrease pain and improve movement in joints. A common brand name is Synvisc. A new study found in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggest there is no functional improvement of the knee, and statistically little decrease in pain when compared to a control group. Moreover, those subjects who did receive synthetic lubricant injections were found to have more likelihood of other orthopedic issues.