RB Physiotherapy

Specialist Physiotherapy and Diagnostic Clinic

Ultrasound Guided Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Within every healthy joint there is protective cartilage and synovial fluid.

With increasing wear and tear, the cartilage becomes worn down and the bones can become damaged. Within the synovial fluid  is a substance called hyaluronic acid, and it’s the key for maintaining healthy joints. It is a type of glycosaminoglycan, which is a long chain of sugars that helps to retain water and promote lubrication to joints. By injecting it into the cavity around the joint it can slow the breakdown of synovial fluid. This means it can decrease your symptoms and alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.

Each course of natural injection therapy can provide relief for up to 9 months or longer.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) joint injections, also called viscosupplementation, are commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, especially in the knee, though they may also be used in the hip, shoulder, or ankle in some cases.

How It Works:

In osteoarthritis, HA levels decrease, making joints stiff and painful. Injections aim to restore the viscosity of the joint fluid to improve mobility and reduce pain.

Common Uses:

  • Knee osteoarthritis (most common and FDA-approved)
  • Early to moderate stages of OA (may be less effective in severe OA)
  • For patients who don’t respond well to NSAIDs or physical therapy
  • As a non-surgical option before considering joint replacement

Potential Benefits:

  • Reduced joint pain
  • Improved mobility and function
  • Delayed need for surgery
  • Generally well tolerated

Limitations:

  • Relief may take a few weeks to notice
  • Effects may last 6-9 months, but vary by individual
  • Not effective for everyone
  • Not a cure—it’s a symptom management tool

Risks (generally low):

  • Temporary joint swelling or pain at the injection site
  • Rare allergic reaction or infection
  • Post-injection flare
  • safe
  • safe
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Hyaluronic acid (HA) joint injections, also called viscosupplementation, are commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, especially in the knee, though they may also be used in the hip, shoulder, or ankle in some cases. How It Works: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in joint fluid that helps lubricate and cushion the joint. In osteoarthritis, HA levels decrease, making joints stiff and painful. Injections aim to restore the viscosity of the joint fluid to improve mobility and reduce pain. Common Uses: • Knee osteoarthritis (most common and FDA-approved) • Early to moderate stages of OA (may be less effective in severe OA) • For patients who don’t respond well to NSAIDs or physical therapy • As a non-surgical option before considering joint replacement Potential Benefits: • Reduced joint pain • Improved mobility and function • Delayed need for surgery • Generally well tolerated Limitations: • Relief may take a few weeks to notice • Effects may last 6-9 months, but vary by individual • Not effective for everyone • Not a cure—it’s a symptom management tool Risks (generally low): • Temporary joint swelling or pain at the injection site • Rare allergic reaction or infection • Post-injection flare • safe • safe