Orthovisc Injections Calgary
Orthovisc is a hyaluronic acid injection used to manage knee osteoarthritis. At Pro Motion Calgary, we provide Orthovisc injections in Southeast Calgary for patients seeking gradual, longer-term improvement in knee pain and stiffness.
If knee arthritis is limiting your ability to walk, climb stairs, or stay active, improving joint lubrication may help reduce discomfort and support smoother movement.
Our clinic is located in the Southcentre Executive Tower at 403 – 11012 Macleod Trail SE, near Southcentre Mall. We serve patients from Willow Park, Canyon Meadows, Lake Bonavista, Acadia, Southwood, Haysboro, Riverbend, Quarry Park, Queensland, and Millrise.
What Is Orthovisc?
Orthovisc is a viscosupplementation treatment. It contains hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in healthy joint fluid.
Hyaluronic acid helps:
- Lubricate the knee joint
- Improve shock absorption
- Reduce friction between moving surfaces
In knee osteoarthritis, natural hyaluronic acid becomes thinner and less protective. This can contribute to stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
Orthovisc is given as a series of injections rather than a single visit. The goal is to gradually improve the joint environment over time.
Who Is Orthovisc Best For?
Orthovisc is commonly used for:
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Patients seeking progressive symptom improvement
- Individuals who prefer a non-steroid option
- Those looking for longer-term lubrication support
It may be appropriate if:
- You have ongoing knee pain
- Exercise and conservative therapy have not provided enough relief
- Inflammation is not the primary driver of symptoms
Candidacy depends on the severity of arthritis, imaging findings, and overall health. A full assessment is required before injection treatment.
Orthovisc is specifically used for the knee joint.
The Goal of Orthovisc Treatment
The goal of Orthovisc is to:
- Reduce knee pain
- Improve joint function
- Support smoother movement over time
Unlike cortisone injections, Orthovisc does not primarily reduce inflammation. Instead, it focuses on restoring lubrication inside the joint.
Improvement tends to develop gradually as the series progresses.
Orthovisc does not reverse arthritis or rebuild cartilage. Its purpose is to support comfort and mobility.
How Orthovisc Works Inside the Knee
In healthy knees, joint fluid cushions movement and reduces friction.
With osteoarthritis:
- Cartilage gradually wears down
- Joint fluid becomes thinner
- Shock absorption decreases
Orthovisc contains high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid. When injected into the knee joint, it blends with existing joint fluid and improves its thickness and elasticity.
This may help:
- Reduce mechanical irritation
- Improve shock absorption
- Support smoother motion during daily activities
Relief varies by individual and joint condition.
What to Expect During Treatment
Orthovisc is administered as a series of injections, usually spaced over several weeks.
Each visit includes:
- Careful cleaning of the injection site
- Ultrasound guidance when appropriate
- Direct injection into the knee joint
Ultrasound allows visualization of the joint space, supporting accurate placement.
Each injection takes only a few minutes. Mild pressure or temporary discomfort may occur.
What Happens After Each Injection?
You may experience mild soreness or swelling for 24 to 48 hours.
Light walking is usually allowed. High-impact activity may be limited temporarily.
Because Orthovisc works gradually, symptom improvement may build over time. Some patients notice changes after the second or third injection.
Duration of relief depends on:
- Stage of osteoarthritis
- Muscle strength
- Activity level
- Weight-bearing demands
Your provider will guide you through safe activity progression.
Orthovisc Compared to Other Knee Injections
There are several injection options available for knee osteoarthritis.
Cortisone injections reduce inflammation and may provide faster relief.
Monovisc is a single-
injection hyaluronic acid option.
Cingal injection combines cortisone and hyaluronic acid in one injection for both short-term and ongoing support.
SportVis is designed for active individuals seeking improved shock absorption.
Orthovisc differs because it is delivered as a series of injections, allowing lubrication support to build gradually.
The best option depends on your specific condition and treatment goals.
Risks and Safety Considerations
Orthovisc is generally well tolerated.
Possible side effects include:
- Temporary swelling
- Injection site soreness
- Warmth around the knee
Infection is rare but possible with any joint injection.
Orthovisc may not be recommended if you have:
- Active joint infection
- Skin infection near the injection site
- Certain allergies related to hyaluronic acid products
A full medical review is completed before treatment.
Orthovisc and Rehabilitation
At Pro Motion Calgary, injections are part of a broader musculoskeletal strategy.
While improved lubrication may reduce stiffness, strengthening and stability remain essential.
After or during your injection series, we may recommend:
- Quadriceps strengthening
- Hip and glute stability work
- Balance training
- Gradual return to activity
This integrated approach supports long-term joint function.
Injection Therapy Provided by Alexander Yeung, MN, BScN, BKin
Orthovisc injections are provided by Alexander Yeung, Family Nurse Practitioner.
He holds a Master of Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Regina. He also earned a Bachelor of Kinesiology with distinction.
His background includes emergency medicine and intensive care experience. He focuses on musculoskeletal conditions and integrates movement assessment with medical management.
Ultrasound guidance is used when appropriate to support accurate placement.
Why Choose Pro Motion Calgary for Orthovisc Injections?
Patients choose our Southeast Calgary clinic because we provide:
- One-to-one private treatment sessions
- Ultrasound-guided precision
- A collaborative and low-pressure environment
- Integrated rehabilitation planning
- Direct billing options
- Online booking
We focus on education, clear communication, and structured care plans.
Conveniently Located in Southeast Calgary
Our clinic is located in the Southcentre Executive Tower at 403 – 11012 Macleod Trail SE, near Southcentre Mall.
We are easily accessible from Macleod Trail and Anderson Road. Patients from Willow Park, Canyon Meadows, Lake Bonavista, Acadia, Southwood, Haysboro, Riverbend, Quarry Park, Queensland, and Millrise can reach us quickly.
Parking is available in the building, and public transit runs along Macleod Trail. A central Southeast Calgary location makes follow-up appointments more manageable, especially during a multi-visit injection series.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Orthovisc injections are required?
Orthovisc is typically given as a series. Your provider will outline the recommended schedule during your consultation.
How long does Orthovisc last?
Relief duration varies. Many patients experience symptom improvement for several months.
Is Orthovisc a steroid?
No. Orthovisc contains hyaluronic acid and does not include cortisone.
How quickly does Orthovisc work?
Improvement is gradual and may develop over several weeks.
Does Orthovisc rebuild cartilage?
No. It improves joint lubrication but does not regenerate cartilage.
Is Orthovisc better than Monovisc?
They work similarly. The main difference is that Orthovisc is given as a series, while Monovisc is a single injection. The best option depends on your condition.
Can I exercise during the injection series?
Light activity is usually allowed. Your provider will guide you on safe progression.
Is Orthovisc covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan. Our team can help review billing options.
If you are considering Orthovisc injections in Southeast Calgary, contact Pro Motion Calgary at (403) 452-5450 or book online to schedule an assessment. We will determine whether this option fits your knee health goals and overall care plan.