Intra-articular hyaluronic acid infiltration is a non-surgical treatment to relieve joint pain, especially in cases of osteoarthritis.
This procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the affected joints to improve lubrication and cushioning, which promotes greater mobility and reduces pain.
In the Pain Treatment Unit of the Clínica San Román , this treatment is an effective option to improve the quality of life of people suffering from chronic joint pain.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance present in the body, which is part of the synovial fluid responsible for lubricating the joints.
With age or due to degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the joints decreases, causing friction between the bones, inflammation and pain.
Hyaluronic acid injections help restore this lubrication, improve joint function and reduce pain.
Indications for hyaluronic acid infiltration
This treatment is mainly indicated for patients suffering from:
Osteoarthritis: a degenerative condition that causes wear and tear of joint cartilage and friction between bones.
Chronic joint pain: Persistent pain in joints such as the knees, hips, ankles, or shoulders.
Reduced mobility: Difficulty moving the affected joint due to inflammation or wear and tear.
Alternative to surgery: For patients wishing to avoid more invasive surgical procedures.
How does hyaluronic acid infiltration work?
The hyaluronic acid infiltration procedure is simple and minimally invasive:
Site preparation: The area where the injection is to be given is disinfected.
Ultrasound guidance: At Clínica San Román , the infiltration is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise positioning of the hyaluronic acid in the affected joint.
Injection: Hyaluronic acid is injected into the joint space.
Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant, improving the sliding of bones in the joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.
It also promotes shock absorption and cartilage regeneration, contributing to joint health.
Hyaluronic acid treatment offers multiple benefits:
Pain reduction: Hyaluronic acid restores the natural lubrication of the joint, thus relieving pain caused by friction.
Improved mobility: By reducing friction and swelling, patients benefit from a greater range of motion .
Prevention of joint wear: hyaluronic acid protects the remaining cartilage, thus delaying the progression of osteoarthritis.
Non-invasive treatment: This is an alternative to surgical procedures and allows for rapid recovery.
Long-lasting effects: Pain relief can last for several months and in some cases it is recommended to repeat the treatment periodically to maintain the results.
Procedure and recovery
Hyaluronic acid injection is an outpatient procedure that typically lasts less than 30 minutes.
After the injection, some patients may experience mild swelling or discomfort in the treated area, which usually disappears within a few hours.
It is recommended to avoid any strenuous physical activity for the first two days, but most patients can return to their daily activities shortly after the procedure.
The effects of the infiltration usually appear gradually, with an improvement in pain and mobility in the weeks following treatment.
When to consider hyaluronic acid infiltration?
Intra-articular hyaluronic acid infiltration is ideal for patients who have not been relieved by conservative treatments, such as medications or physiotherapy, but who do not yet need surgery.
It is also an excellent option for those looking to improve their quality of life without undergoing invasive procedures.
At San Román Clinic , our pain specialists will assess your case individually and determine if this treatment is right for you, developing a personalized plan to improve joint function and reduce pain.
Conclusion
Intra-articular hyaluronic acid infiltration is an effective treatment to relieve joint pain and improve mobility in patients with osteoarthritis or chronic joint pain.
The Pain Management Unit at the San Román Clinic offers this minimally invasive treatment as an alternative to surgery, allowing patients to regain functionality and improve their quality of life.
If you suffer from joint pain and other treatments have not been effective, we invite you to consult our specialists to determine if this treatment is right for you.