Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance inside your joints, working as a shock absorber and lubricant. Hyaluronic acid injections are used for the treatment of joint pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
There are different formulations of hyaluronic acid viscosupplementation based on the molecular weight. If you get the low molecular weight formulation, you typically need a series of 3 injection a few weeks apart. If you get the high molecular weight formulation, you will need a single injection. The high viscosity gel injections usually lasts 6-12 months. It may take up to 4 weeks to work. You should rest for 48 hours after the injection and avoid prolonged standing or walking. Side effects, such as pain, swelling or allergic reactions are pretty rare.
Evidence suggests that viscosupplementation is more effective in younger patients with early arthritis. Even though stronger evidence exists regarding knee arthritis, hyaluronic acid may also be effective for hip, ankle, shoulder and thumb arthritis. Some recent evidence suggests that combining hyaluronic acid with PRP is even more effective.
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