Hyaluronic acid is an endogenous compound present in the body, predominantly located within the eyes, joints, and skin. Within joint structures, it serves a pivotal function as both a lubricant and shock absorber[1][2]. Its presence mitigates discomfort and injury that may arise from bones rubbing or impacting each other while also preserving adequate hydration levels by retaining water[2].
Administration of Hyaluronic Acid in Joints
Hyaluronic acid is administered in joints through a procedure called intra-articular injection, where it is injected directly into the joint capsule[3]. This procedure is typically performed by an orthopedic physician in a doctor’s office and takes only a few minutes[3].
Indications for the Procedure
Hyaluronic acid injections serve as a remedy for knee pain resulting from osteoarthritis (OA) in individuals who have previously undergone treatment with analgesics such as acetaminophen and other treatments that proved to be ineffective[1]. It is particularly advantageous for patients experiencing moderate osteoarthritis who have yet to find solace through alternative non-invasive therapies[4].
Treatment Effects of Hyaluronic Acid
The administration of hyaluronic acid injections has been shown to mitigate discomfort, enhance joint motility by amplifying the lubrication within joints, diminish joint friction and inflammation, as well as potentially impede the advancement of osteoarthritis[4]. A multitude of research studies corroborate the beneficial effects attributed to hyaluronic acid therapy, such as a decrease in both pain and rigidity observed in knee joints[5].
Safety of the Procedure
Hyaluronic acid injections administered to the knee are generally regarded as safe. However, like any medical procedure, they may have accompanying risks and side effects[3]. The most commonly observed side effects include mild swelling and pain at the injection site[3]. While allergic reactions are rare, they still remain a possibility[6]. In general, existing evidence indicates that hyaluronic acid injections following arthroscopic knee surgery are considered safe; their effectiveness in mitigating pain, however, remains inadequately supported[7][8].
In summary, hyaluronic acid is an indispensable element in preserving the well-being and operation of joints. Administering intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid can prove to be a favorable therapeutic alternative for patients who have failed to attain relief from other remedies in managing osteoarthritis symptoms. The process typically poses minimal risks, with minor adverse effects and infrequent hypersensitivity responses occurring uncommonly.
Citations:
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22915-hyaluronic-acid
[4] https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/injections/hyaluronic-acid-injections-knee-osteoarthritis
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5625860/
[6] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1062/hyaluronic-acid
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36411508/
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9837239/
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