Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Shoulder Arthritis

Medicare and supplemental covered a hyaluronic injection in my knee. Are you medicare

Have not had the hyaluronic acid injection but I am right now getting PRP injections for both torn rotator cuffs.

The FDA has approved these shots only for the knee. Using them for the hip or shoulder is considered "off label". That probably means insurance won't cover the shots. It's also possible the surgeon won't give them. I'll ask my surgeon about both.

I got hyaluronic injections for both of my knees. The first injection was a major improvement and the improvement continued for about a year, decreasing over time. I got a second round of shots and there was very little improvement at all. I have no idea why the second round did not have the effects of the first.

Are the PRP injections working? How many have you had or need to have? Cost?? I'm in Canada - need both shoulders reverse total replacements but am refusing due to other medical complications. Cortisone shots not working - excruciating pain.

Thank you

I just pretty much got them.
They piggybacked the PRP with cortisone because PRP does cause some inflammation which in turn causes pain. The doctor informed me that it usually takes 3-4 injections to see if provides relief. Then it is a yearly procedure. With my torn rotator cuffs it doesn’t heat the membrane but it creates scar tissue where the tear is. Also and more importantly, physical therapy is a must. I do PT 4 days a week for my entire body. I also do yoga one day a week. Physical therapy most likely will have to be on my schedule for the duration of my life.

No insurance will cover them. Your surgeon should have no problem giving you the injections though.
Bring your checkbook

Thanks Aileen.

I have a theory why the second injection didn't take. Hyaluronic acid is part of the synovial fluid that lines the joints. If the synovial fluid and cartilage were gone by your second injection (bone-on-bone), the injections may not work.

Not an expert so this is a hypothesis, not even a theory. I am glad you got a year of relief.

Are you considering a total knee replacement? I'did that on both knees during 2022 and they turned out great. Gotta be very devoted to rehab for a month or so, but they take away the pain.

I'm sorry for what you are going through Koala. I am getting my left shoulder replaced in three months. The pain is nasty.

I don't know if PRP injections help. Cortisone no longer works. I do have an Rx for 5% lidocaine patches and wear one during the night. It helps. Not magic but it helps.

All the best to you.

Joe

Thank you Jim, for the medical and financial advice!