Hyaluronic Acid Injections - Pacific Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections: Lubrication for Your Joints

Hyaluronic acid injections, commonly known as viscosupplementation, provide a highly effective option for managing joint pain and improving function. These injections are often referred to as “gel” or “lubricant” injections, as they work by supplementing the body’s natural synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for joints. The primary purpose of hyaluronic acid injections is to enhance joint lubrication, regulate inflammation, and support overall joint function, providing significant pain relief. We offer a variety of hyaluronic acid products including the common brands known in the community.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid that surrounds your joints. In a healthy joint, this fluid acts as both a lubricant and a shock absorber, allowing bones to move smoothly against one another.

In patients with osteoarthritis, this fluid becomes thinner and less effective. HA injections supplement your body’s natural supply to “oil the hinges” of the joint.

How Does the Treatment Work?

Hyaluronic acid works by maintaining a buffer-like effect that helps protect cartilage and improve mobility. This thicker substance supports the maintenance of synovial fluid, which is vital for healthy joint function. As the viscosupplementation helps to restore the natural lubrication, it also supports better control of inflammation, which can aid in long-term joint health. These injections are most commonly used for mild to moderate cases of osteoarthritis, with the goal of providing relief for approximately 6 months.

The goal of HA therapy is to reduce pain and improve the joint’s range of motion. The process is straightforward:

Preparation: The injection site is cleaned and often numbed with a local anesthetic.
Precision Delivery: To ensure the gel is placed perfectly within the joint capsule, our specialists typically use ultrasound guidance when indicated.
The Injection: The HA gel is injected directly into the joint space.
Post-Care: You can usually walk out of the office immediately, though we recommend avoiding strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.

Benefits of HA Injections

Reduced Friction: Decreases the “bone-on-bone” sensation.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Can help reduce swelling and pain within the joint.
Delayed Surgery: For many patients, HA injections can successfully delay the need for joint replacement surgery for months or even years.
Non-Systemic: Unlike oral medications, HA stays in the joint and doesn’t affect your stomach or kidneys.

What to Expect

The effect typically takes 2-4 weeks to become noticeable, as the injectate works its way into the joint. While hyaluronic acid is proven to provide symptom relief, there is ongoing debate in the medical community regarding its long-term impact on joint preservation or regeneration.
For accurate placement, these injections can be administered under ultrasound guidance if indicated, ensuring precise delivery of the thicker solution.
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend a combination of corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections to achieve a synergistic effect.

Is HA Right for You?

HA injections are most effective for patients with mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis who have not found relief from physical therapy or over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.

Note: HA injections are not a “cure” for arthritis, but they are a highly effective tool for managing symptoms and keeping you active.

Ready to move comfortably again? Contact our office to schedule a consultation and find out if viscosupplementation is the right step for your recovery.