Are Hyaluronic Acid Injections Effective In Treating Osteoarthritis?

A Summary Of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the joints and usually occurs in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. In this condition, the cartilage between the joints begins to debilitate and typical symptoms include pain, swelling, and reduced movements. Osteoarthritis has various modes of treatment like medications, injections such as hyaluronic acid, surgeries, and therapies. Hyaluronic acid injections are one of the alternative forms of treatment if first-line treatment does not work.

What is hyaluronic acid injection?

Hyaluronic acid injections are alternative options if other treatments such as medications and steroid injections fail. During osteoarthritis, the fluid within the joint becomes watery, and hyaluronic injection aids in re-establishing the elements of the fluid. Hyaluronic acid acts as a defense to protect against any inflammation. These injections are more useful for knee osteoarthritis and for patients with diabetes, and also to delay surgery. Depending on each patient, the symptoms provide symptomatic relief for up to 6 months or even a year.

Location and frequency

The site of injection is usually around the knee joint within the synovial fluid. The frequency will be based on the doctor’s judgment of the patient’s condition. Some patients receive the shots every 3 to 6 months according to the severity of the pain. Sometimes, patients are given multiple shots or combined with steroids for better results.

The effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections

Just like in any other standard treatment, every modality has a different level of efficacy. The efficacy result depends on the type of treatment, the patient’s condition, and any pre-existing medical conditions. With regards to hyaluronic acid injection’s efficacy, there is not much scientific evidence. However, the injection can give relief for up to 6 months but the relief is temporary. The shots do not give assurance of the pain not returning and are not given life-long.

Single versus multiple hyaluronic acid injections

Based on the patient’s severity of the medical condition, the number of injections is given accordingly. One study showed that multiple hyaluronic acid injections provided a better relief compared to single ones. However, the usage of hyaluronic acid injections varies on a case basis and the doctor would recommend the best advice.

The possible side effects

Hyaluronic acid injections may or may not result in side effects. Some of the side effects include pain, inflammation, warmth, redness, and fluid accumulation around the knee. Post an injection, taking plenty of rest, and applying a cold compress is recommended if any side effects happen. If any side effects occur, consulting the doctor is recommended.