Hyaluronic acid: what you need to know
Hyaluronic acid injections are an option discussed for the symptoms of osteoarthritis, mainly in the knee. They are not suitable for every type of pain and are not a treatment for regenerating cartilage.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in joint fluid and helps lubricate the joint. Injecting a hyaluronic acid preparation into a joint is called viscosupplementation. It is not the same as cortisone or PRP / ACP.
The decision starts with a diagnosis
Before discussing an injection, the cause of the pain needs to be established. Knee osteoarthritis (In Greek) is not managed with injections alone: appropriate exercise, weight management where needed and activity modification remain important.
The discussion takes into account everyday function, previous treatments, preferences and cost. The decision is not based on an X-ray alone.
What we know about the benefits
The potential benefit remains uncertain and not all patients respond. NICE guidelines do not recommend intra-articular hyaluronic acid for osteoarthritis. It is therefore not presented as an established solution for everyone or as a necessary step before other treatment.
When individual use is discussed, these limitations need to be clearly explained. It has not been shown to reverse arthritis or regenerate cartilage.
How it is given and how many injections are needed
The preparation is injected into the joint with strict adherence to antisepsis and aseptic technique. Ultrasound guidance may be used where indicated. The number of injections depends on the particular preparation; there is no single schedule for all products.
Tell your doctor about allergies, any possible infection and all your medicines, particularly those that affect blood clotting. Do not stop prescribed medication without advice.
What to expect afterwards
Avoid strenuous activity for the first 48 hours, following the instructions you receive. If there is an improvement, it may take weeks to become noticeable and its duration varies. Repeat treatment is not automatic: the actual benefit is assessed first.
When to contact a doctor
Temporary pain, warmth or swelling may occur. Rapidly increasing pain, redness or fever require immediate assessment. Infection and bleeding are possible complications of an injection.
Difficulty breathing, swelling in the throat or fainting require emergency help. In Greece, call 166 or go to a hospital Emergency Department.
A practical guide to your next step
PRP or hyaluronic acid for the knee? (In Greek)
A comparison of PRP and hyaluronic acid for knee osteoarthritis: differences, scientific evidence, limitations and questions to ask before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Does it regenerate cartilage?
Are multiple injections always needed?
What happens if it does not help?
Which approach is right for your case?
Bring your test results and discuss the difficulties you face in daily life and the treatments you have already tried.