In the UK, viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis typically involves hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, which are used to relieve joint pain and improve mobility of the painful joint.
These injections aim to restore the natural viscoelasticity of synovial fluid, which is often degraded in osteoarthritic joints. More importantly it stimulates the cells that produce synovial fluid in joints, helping to restore the balance between breakdown and production of synovial cells to give long lasting pain relief.
Despite supporting scientific evidence these joint pain injections are not currently available on the NHS. Therefore there is an ever increasing demand for them within the private sector due to their success in reducing joint pain and improving mobility.
The ‘Cochrane review’ is recognised as the highest standard of evidence based medicine and this review states these injections are “effective treatments for mild to moderate osteoarthritis”.
If you wish to read the review – Please click here
Hyaluronic acid has been extensively tested and has not been found to cause any serious side effects, plus it contains no animal proteins, so it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
As with any injection, there is a very small risk of infection and occasional post injection pain at the site, which may last for several days.
You should always consult with your clinician before beginning any treatment.
Appointments are available at all clinics.
