Dr. Timothy Young has used this treatment for arthritis in the foot and ankle for over 10 years. This has been one the most effective nonsurgical options that we have. Supartz is synthetic joint lubricant Sodium Hyaluronate, and this is very joint and cartilage protective.
On the other hand, another common injection used by many clinics is cortisone. Cortisone can be very damaging to joints and cartilage especially with repetitive use. It can weaken the joint capsule and cartilage and over time accelerate the degenerative process. Supartz does not have these degenerative properties in fact quite the opposite, it is very protective.
Applications: Arthritis of the great toe joint is one the most common applications. But arthritis and joint pain from the ankle is another common treatment site along with other joints in the forefoot and midfoot. '
Duration: We have found that Supartz injections can provide relief and last between 6 and 12 months.
The local anesthetic is utilized initially so that there is no pain during the Supartz injection itself. Also during the Supartz injection Dr. Young utilizes ultrasound imaging to pinpoint the location and make certain that the Supartz goes directly into the joint as intended.
For a live video showing Dr. young doing a Supartz injection for great toe arthritis see youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZ9Rc6B8Fqc (Search: BestFootDoc Supartz YouTube)
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, give us a call today at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online.
