Hyaluronic Acid Injection Treatment at BMM

Treating Joint Degeneration with Hyaluronic Acid Injection Therapy

In cases of joint degeneration, one may initially experience a dull pain that intensifies with exertion, typically during stair climbing or after prolonged sitting in the case of knee degeneration. Symptoms may also arise from movements involving a bent leg. In such instances, only moderate joint degeneration is likely detectable, but precisely at this stage, hyaluronic acid injection can be one of the most effective treatment methods. The articular cartilage lacks its own blood supply, so the joint obtains nutrients from the synovial fluid.

Unfortunately, the synovial fluid can change with age, and its quality and quantity may deteriorate, leading to various complaints. However, if hyaluronic acid is injected into the joints, pain can be reduced, as it nourishes the cartilage and protects the cartilage surface.

The Significance of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid itself is an important component of articular cartilage and the synovial fluid. The articular cartilage consists of chondrocytes and a matrix, and hyaluronic acid is one of the components of this matrix. Articular cartilage is very flexible because it largely contains water. If the cartilage loses its water content, it can fray, soften, and even degenerate in places, leaving the bone exposed. This can lead to joint degeneration, which is accompanied by severe pain and restricted movement. In cases of advanced large joint (knee, hip) cartilage degeneration, prosthetic implantation may be necessary. Early recognition of joint degeneration is crucial, as the problem can be effectively managed with conservative treatments (e.g., hyaluronic acid injection) in its early stages.  

By itself, hyaluronic acid is a very viscous substance. Its effect can be illustrated by pouring engine oil into an engine. In this way, hyaluronic acid also improves the “lubrication” of the joints. Hyaluronic acid integrates into the matrix system of the articular cartilage, increasing its water-binding capacity and thereby improving the cartilage’s elasticity.

What is Hyaluronic Acid Injection Treatment?

Hyaluronic acid treatment is an injection therapy during which a hyaluronic acid-containing substance is injected into the joint.

How is Hyaluronic Acid Treatment Performed?

Hyaluronic acid injection treatment is not lengthy; the injection into the joint is no more painful than any other injection. It is a very quick procedure, with the injection taking approximately only 20 seconds. After moving the joint, the hyaluronic acid evenly coats the cartilage surface. A small percentage of patients may experience mild tension at the injection site, which subsides after a few hours. After the injection, the patient is able to walk and can go home independently, but rest is recommended for another 1-2 days at home.

Where can Hyaluronic Acid Injection Treatment be Applied?

Knee joint diseases and other joint conditions can be excellently treated with hyaluronic acid in injectable form. The most common application is hyaluronic acid injection treatment for large joints, the hip and knee, but it can also be used for shoulder and ankle complaints.

In Which Cases Can Hyaluronic Acid Injection Be Used?

It can be applied in various forms of joint degeneration, but this treatment is typically particularly effective in initial or moderate stages of degeneration. In advanced degeneration or complete absence of articular cartilage, these injections unfortunately have limited or no effect. It is important to know that it is not possible to rebuild articular cartilage with this type of treatment! However, the condition of existing cartilage can be significantly improved, and the process of joint degeneration can be slowed down.

How Many Hyaluronic Acid Injections Are Needed?

This largely depends on the patient’s condition and the extent of joint degeneration, as well as the type of hyaluronic acid product used. In terms of frequency, it can be a single treatment or a series, which means a course consisting of multiple injections. For lower-dose hyaluronic acid products, multiple sessions are recommended. For more concentrated, high hyaluronic acid concentration injections, even one treatment may be sufficient.

Types of Hyaluronic Acid Products

There are higher concentration, higher dose, and higher density hyaluronic acid products, as well as smaller ones. Higher density products containing larger molecular weight hyaluronic acid break down more slowly, thus exerting their effect in the joints for a longer period. For lower-dose products, more injections are required, typically administered in a series, repeated 2-3 times weekly or every few weeks to the patient. Additionally, combined products are also manufactured, which contain a steroid component; this type can be very beneficial for patients whose joints are also experiencing inflammation. This not only improves the condition of the articular cartilage but also reduces inflammation.

Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Injection Treatment

The injection usually takes effect within one week. Its effectiveness also depends on the patient’s cartilage condition and the load on the joint. Therefore, accurate feedback from the patient is important to determine the necessary frequency of treatment. In terms of duration, their effect can last from 6 months to even 1 year; the duration largely depends on the condition of the joint and the extent of joint degeneration. Subsequently, if symptoms begin to return, treatments can be repeated, thereby slowing down the process of joint degeneration. The treatment can buy time for a potential joint replacement surgery, during which the patient can prepare for the intervention both physically and mentally.

Side Effects of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid products have no known side effects. However, mild tension may occur after the injection itself, which subsides within a few hours. As with any injection, great emphasis is placed on disinfecting the skin before the injection, but the risk of infectious complications – fortunately, in a very small percentage – can still exist.