As people age, joint pain and movement issues often become a daily challenge. Research shows that nearly one in three adults over 70 struggles with limited movement. They can experience this even in familiar spaces like their own homes. This loss of mobility doesn’t just affect independence; it can also increase the risk of falls and reduced quality of life. Protecting joint health plays a vital role in supporting healthy aging.
Addressing this need is Anika Therapeutics, a global leader in joint preservation and restoration technologies. The company is best known as the manufacturer of Orthovisc, a high–molecular weight hyaluronic acid injection. It restores natural joint fluid, improves lubrication, and eases the pain of osteoarthritis. Every Orthovisc injection reflects Anika’s focus on scientific rigor, safety, and long-term mobility support.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the story behind Orthovisc. We’ll explore how Anika Therapeutics developed its innovative approach to joint care, and their broader mission to advance non-surgical solutions that help people move with comfort and confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Anika Therapeutics, founded in 1992, is a biotechnology company focusing on hyaluronic acid–based orthopedic and regenerative products.
- The company creates Orthovisc, a non-animal-derived viscosupplement designed to lubricate joints, reduce osteoarthritis pain, and improve mobility.
- Orthovisc received CE Mark approval in 1996 and FDA approval in 2004. Afterwards, it has become a recognized treatment around the world for knee osteoarthritis.
- Anika expanded its viscosupplement portfolio with Monovisc (single-injection) and Cingal (a combination of HA and corticosteroid). This expansion reflects its focus on innovation and patient safety.
- The company’s fermentation-based production method ensures high purity, consistent molecular weight, and low allergy risk.
- Orthovisc has approval in more than 35–40 countries, including the U.S., EU, and Asia.
About: Medical Spa RX provides medical practices with premium products at the best prices. If you’re looking to buy Orthovisc online for your practice, the sales representatives at Medical Spa RX can give you guidance.
The History of Anika Therapeutics in Orthopedic Care
Founded in 1992, Anika Therapeutics began as a biotechnology company dedicated to exploring the therapeutic potential of hyaluronic acid. Over the past three decades, it has evolved into a global leader in orthopedic, regenerative, and joint preservation technologies. The company built its reputation by combining biomaterial science with clinical accuracy, creating products that address degenerative joint conditions like osteoarthritis.
A defining milestone for Anika came with the development of Orthovisc, its first major entry into the viscosupplementation market. The launch made Anika a recognized innovator in non-surgical knee pain management, laying the foundation for future advancements in joint therapy.
How Anika Developed Orthovisc and Other Viscosupplements
Anika Therapeutics has long driven progress in viscosupplementation through a combination of scientific rigor and patient-centered innovation. One of its earliest and most meaningful decisions was to use bacterial fermentation instead of animal-derived sources when producing hyaluronic acid. Through this approach, they guarantee high purity, controlled molecular weight, and low immunogenic risk, resulting in a formulation that is both safe and consistent for patients.
Orthovisc closely mimics the properties of natural synovial fluid, offering dependable lubrication and cushioning for osteoarthritic joints. Its development included years of testing to ensure biocompatibility, clinical safety, and reliable rheological performance—meaning it behaves under pressure much like healthy joint fluid.
Building on Orthovisc’s success, Anika expanded its viscosupplement line to include:
- Monovisc: A single-injection formulation designed for durable relief.
- Cingal: A dual-action product that combines hyaluronic acid with a corticosteroid for faster symptom improvement.
Each of these innovations reflects Anika’s commitment to:
- Non-animal manufacturing methods that ensure purity.
- Comprehensive clinical validation through trials and post-market studies.
- Expanding orthopedic applications, from joint pain to regenerative medicine.
Through continuous research and product refinement, Anika Therapeutics has developed a viscosupplement portfolio trusted by clinicians worldwide.
Innovation and Research Behind Orthovisc Manufacturing
The creation of Orthovisc represents decades of research in biomaterials and orthopedic biotechnology. Anika’s fermentation-based process produces high-purity, non-animal hyaluronic acid that mirrors the molecular profile of natural synovial fluid. This design supports joint lubrication, shock absorption, and symptom relief for patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Beyond production, Anika invests heavily in clinical research and continuous innovation. Orthovisc received its CE Mark in 1996 and FDA approval in 2004, establishing its global credibility early on. Numerous clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials, have confirmed its ability to reduce pain and improve mobility compared to a placebo.
Key Pillars of Anika’s Innovation Strategy
- Biotechnological Precision: Fermentation-based production for purity and safety.
- Clinical Validation: Ongoing trials confirming efficacy, including head-to-head comparisons.
- Regulatory Excellence: Adherence to strict U.S. FDA and international standards.
- Pipeline Expansion: Exploring hyaluronic acid applications in regenerative and soft tissue repair therapies.
This science-first approach has helped position Orthovisc as a trusted viscosupplement that delivers consistent results while advancing the field of non-surgical orthopedic care.
Global Reach and Clinical Trust in Anika’s Orthovisc
Today, Orthovisc stands as one of the most widely recognized viscosupplements for knee osteoarthritis. It has approval in more than 35–40 countries worldwide. This includes the U.S., the European Union, and several regions in Asia. These global approvals reflect Anika’s commitment to maintaining consistent quality, purity, and regulatory compliance.
The non-animal-derived hyaluronic acid formulation of Orthovisc appeals to a wide patient population by minimizing allergy risk while providing reliable joint lubrication and pain reduction. Multiple studies have reported significant improvements in mobility and function, further reinforcing its reputation for safety and efficacy.
Physicians around the world regard Orthovisc as a dependable, non-surgical therapy that can help delay invasive procedures like knee replacement. Its global adoption underscores not only the strength of the product but also Anika’s scientific integrity and ongoing clinical investment. Whether discussed alone or in the context of Orthovisc vs Synvisc comparisons, Orthovisc remains a benchmark in viscosupplementation therapy for osteoarthritis.
Conclusion
The reputation of Orthovisc is deeply connected to the credibility and innovation of its manufacturer, Anika Therapeutics. Through decades of research, advanced hyaluronic acid technology, and commitment to clinical safety, Anika has become a prominent leader in orthopedic care.
By maintaining rigorous quality standards and investing in new medical applications, Orthovisc continues to serve as a trusted option for patients seeking relief from knee osteoarthritis. With approvals spanning more than 35 countries and strong recognition among healthcare professionals, Anika Therapeutics remains at the forefront of viscosupplementation and regenerative medicine.
FAQs
1. Who is the Orthovisc manufacturer?
Orthovisc is manufactured by Anika Therapeutics, a U.S.-based biotechnology company specializing in orthopedic, regenerative, and soft tissue repair products.
2. What other products does Anika Therapeutics offer?
In addition to Orthovisc, Anika produces Monovisc, Cingal, and other orthopedic and regenerative solutions designed to support joint preservation and healing.
3. How does Anika ensure the quality of Orthovisc?
The company adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), employs fermentation-based production, and conducts rigorous quality testing to ensure safety and consistency.
4. What makes Orthovisc different from animal-derived viscosupplements?
Orthovisc is produced using bacterial fermentation, resulting in high-purity hyaluronic acid that contains no animal proteins, thereby lowering the risk of allergic reaction.
5. Is Orthovisc available internationally?
Yes. Orthovisc is approved and distributed across more than 35–40 countries, including regions in North America, Europe, and Asia, making it a globally trusted viscosupplementation therapy.
References
Maresova P, Krejcar O, Maskuriy R, et al. Challenges and opportunity in mobility among older adults – key determinant identification. BMC Geriatrics. 2023;23(1). doi:10.1186/s12877-023-04106-7
Dunkin MA. 10 tips for Healthy knees and strong joints as you Age. Arthritis Foundation. Published February 16, 2023. https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/joint-protection/tips-for-healthy-knees
Brandt KD, Block JA, Michalski JP, Moreland LW, Caldwell JR, Lavin PT. Efficacy and safety of intraarticular sodium hyaluronate in knee osteoarthritis. ORTHOVISC Study Group. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2001;(385):130-143. doi:10.1097/00003086-200104000-00021
