Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Overview
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections are a viscosupplementation treatment that involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into joints to improve lubrication, reduce pain, and enhance mobility in patients with osteoarthritis.
Mechanism of Action
- Viscosupplementation — Restores synovial fluid viscosity
- Anti-inflammatory — Reduces joint inflammation markers
- Chondroprotective — May protect remaining cartilage
- Analgesic — Direct pain reduction properties
Treatment Protocol
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Injection site | Intra-articular (knee, hip, shoulder) |
| Frequency | 3-5 weekly injections per course |
| Guidance | Ultrasound-guided for accuracy |
| Duration of effect | 6-12 months |
| Retreatment | Can be repeated every 6-12 months |
Indications
- Knee osteoarthritis — Most common and well-studied application
- Hip osteoarthritis — Emerging evidence
- Shoulder arthritis — Glenohumeral joint
- Ankle osteoarthritis — Limited but positive data
Advantages Over Corticosteroids
- Longer duration of pain relief
- No cartilage degradation risk
- Can be repeated safely
- Better long-term joint health outcomes
Hyaluronic acid injections are particularly beneficial for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy and oral medications, or who wish to delay joint replacement surgery.
Post-Injection Care
- Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours
- Ice application for swelling
- Mild soreness is normal for 1-2 days
- Full benefit realized after completing the injection series
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