Orthovisc injections for hand, finger and wrist pain

What is Orthovisc®?

Small joints. A big part of everyday life.

When gripping a cup, opening a jar or walking becomes painful, small joints can have a big impact. Orthovisc® is a hyaluronic acid (HA) injection used to help relieve osteoarthritis pain, including in the fingers, thumbs, wrists and toes.

Supports smoother movement.

Supplements the HA naturally found in joint fluid to help lubricate and cushion the joint.
A steroid-free option. Uses high-purity hyaluronic acid, with no corticosteroids.
Treatment where it’s needed. Injected directly into the affected joint following clinical assessment.
An established treatment. More than 20 million Orthovisc injections have been given worldwide.

The aim is simple: less discomfort and easier everyday movement. Your clinician will advise whether Orthovisc is suitable and how many injections you may need.

How does it work?

Orthovisc replenishes hyaluronic acid within the joint, improving lubrication and reducing friction between joint surfaces.

Eases small-joint stiffness

In smaller joints it can ease stiffness, reduce pain with movement and support smoother, more comfortable use.

A course of injections

Treatment is often a course of injections, so the effect builds gradually, particularly with ongoing use of the joint and hand or foot therapy.

Designed like natural joint fluid

Its non-crosslinked formulation and predictable behaviour suit small joints, where keeping irritation low matters.

Repeatable

It is well tolerated and suitable for repeat treatment when symptoms return.

What to expect on the day

A check before treatment

Your clinician checks your joint, medical history and medicines, explains the benefits and risks, and answers your questions.

Preparing the area

The skin is cleaned and you’re positioned comfortably. Ultrasound may be used to guide the injection.

Your injection

Orthovisc is injected into the joint. You may feel a brief sting or pressure. Orthvisc is a 2mL pre-loaded syringe. In a very small joint (base of thumb) your clinician only administer half of the contents - this is normal.

Aftercare advice

A small dressing is applied. You’ll receive guidance on activity, driving and what to do if you have any concerns.

Your next steps

Before you leave, your clinician confirms any further injections or follow-up appointments.

What people notice

People respond differently, but many notice:

Less pain and stiffness

A gradual reduction over the course of treatment.

Easier fine movements

Improved comfort with fine movements and daily tasks.

Lasting benefit

Benefits that build across the course and may last for several months.

References

1. Brandt KD, Block JA, Michalski JP, Moreland LW, Caldwell JR, Lavin PT. Efficacy and safety of intra-articular sodium hyaluronate in knee osteoarthritis. ORTHOVISC Study Group. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2001;(385):130–43.
2. Neustadt D, Caldwell J, Bell M, Wade J, Gimbel J. Clinical effects of intraarticular injection of high molecular weight hyaluronan (ORTHOVISC) in osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized, controlled, multicenter trial. J Rheumatology 2005;(32):1928–36.
3. Data on file, Anika.

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