hyaluronic acid infiltration and osteoarthritis

In the field of orthopedic surgery, hyaluronic acid is commonly used in the treatment of osteoarthritis through hyaluronic acid injections. Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the cartilage of the joints in a middle-aged and elderly population. Conventional treatment for osteoarthritis uses nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids (corticosteroids), which are not without side effects, toxicities, and drug interactions in an already polymedicated population. For these reasons, hyaluronic acid treatment was a significant advance in osteoarthritis therapy when André Balazs first proposed it in 1971. In fact, hyaluronic acid is a fundamental component of the extracellular matrix of cartilage and synovial fluid (the fluid present in joints that nourishes and protects cartilage from excessive friction).

The onset of osteoarthritis, associated with reduced hyaluronic acid production and increased degradation, leads to a shift in distribution toward lower average molecular weight hyaluronic acid in the synovial membrane, joint, and cartilage. This consequently diminishes the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of synovial fluid in the affected joint, reducing its protective effect on the cartilage.

Damaged cartilage has limited reparative capacity due to its low cell concentration and poor vascularization. Ultrasound-guided hyaluronic acid injections are used clinically to improve impaired hyaluronic acid function in joints affected by osteoarthritis. In fact, injected hyaluronic acid provides significant pain relief through several mechanisms. These mechanisms include anti-inflammatory effects and the maintenance of viscoelasticity.

The functions of hyaluronic acid in the joint include lubrication, regulation of cellular activity, absorption of mechanical impacts (cushioning), and reduction of friction between joint surfaces.

The safety, tolerability, and efficacy of hyaluronic acid for the treatment of various types of inflammatory joint diseases have been validated in several scientific studies. The mechanism underlying the efficacy of hyaluronic acid in the treatment of these types of joint pathologies is due to its chondroprotective properties.

Dr. Jordi Jiménez performs ultrasound-guided hyaluronic acid injections in Palma de Mallorca. Make an appointment with Dr. Jordi Jiménez. He will see you in the center of Palma de Mallorca and help you regain your quality of life.