What are Hyaluronic Acid Injections?
These injections are used to decrease pain and stiffness and improve mobility for people suffering from osteoarthritis or arthritis (also known as ‘wear and tear’) in the joints. The solution injected contains sodium hyaluronate and it is injected into the joint space where the synovial fluid is. The fluid acts as a lubricant reducing friction and improving supply of oxygen and nutrients to the worn cartilage.
What conditions are treated by Hyaluronic Acid Injections?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) Injections are most effective in treatment of osteoarthritis of joints especially the knee joint. The drug works to restore the balance between the breakdown and production of sodium hyaluronate in the synovial fluid of the joint. Once pain and stiffness have decreased, a graduated exercise programme supervised by one of our practitioners will result in improvement in mobility and strength.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anaesthetic is used so it is not an excessively painful procedure. The doctor can administer extra pain relief if you do feel pain and will ask you throughout the procedure if you are ok and coping with the treatment.
How many injections will I need?
We routinely perform a course of three injections and the benefits of these can last for up to 9 months. You can have as many courses of injections as you require if you find that they alleviate your symptoms for a significant length of time.
How quickly will it work?
You may not notice any benefits immediately after the first injection but you should start to feel less pain and stiffness over the next few weeks. The improvement should last for several months. Once you are in less pain it is important that you book in to see one of our physios so they can monitor your progress and give you a graduated exercise programme to increase strength and mobility.
Make an appointment with our Sport & Exercise or Musculoskeletal Medicine doctors if you are suffering from one of these conditions and feel that these injections may be of benefit to you. We also recommend trying physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic treatment as often exercises, stretches and soft tissue massage can be of benefit alongside injection treatments.
