Hyaluronic acid is a natural component that maintains the health of our joints and ensures the integrity of cartilage tissue. Especially in knee joints, this acid provides lubrication, protects cartilage cells and helps the joint to function properly. However, for various reasons, the amount of hyaluronic acid in our joints can decrease and this can lead to problems such as joint calcification (gonarthrosis). In this article, we will examine hyaluronic acid injection therapy and its positive effects on joint health.
Hyaluronic Acid and Joint Health
The hyaluronic acid in our joints is one of the main components of joint fluid. This substance reduces the friction of the joint surfaces against each other, facilitating movement and protecting the articular cartilage. In joint disorders such as gonarthrosis, the level of intra-articular hyaluronic acid decreases, which negatively affects the joint’s nutrition and lubrication. As a result, the load-bearing capacity of the joint is reduced, resulting in pain and restricted movement.
Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Injections
The main purpose of hyaluronic acid injections is to replace the missing hyaluronic acid to provide lubrication in the joint and increase the durability of the cartilage. These injections are administered directly into the joint and help protect cartilage tissue by increasing the viscosity of the joint fluid. In a joint with a healthy diet and increased lubrication, pain is reduced and the load-bearing capacity of the joint is increased.
Types of Hyaluronic Acid
There are various hyaluronic acid fluids available today. The concentration of hyaluronic acid in these fluids varies and some contain additional components such as peptides or MSM (methylsulfanylmethane). Some of these types help the connective tissue in the joint to heal, while others have an anti-edema effect.
Peptide-Containing Hyaluronic Acids
Peptide-containing hyaluronic acid injections accelerate the repair of tissues in the joint and promote joint health. In particular, these injections promote the healing of articular cartilage and increase joint strength.
Hyaluronic Acids with MSM
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory effects, hyaluronic acid injections containing MSM reduce edema in the joint and relieve pain. In addition to maintaining joint health, such injections improve mobility.
Frequency of Application and Treatment Process
Hyaluronic acid injections are usually given every six months or once a year. The single-dose injections provide long-term relief and promote joint health. However, it is important to note that this treatment method is not covered by social security institutions (SGK).
Combined Treatment Methods
In our clinic, hyaluronic acid injections are combined with other treatment modalities such as Prolotherapy, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma), Neuroprolotherapy and Prolozon. These combination treatments improve joint health more effectively and improve patients’ quality of life.
Who is it suitable for?
Hyaluronic acid injections are an effective and safe treatment for mild to moderate osteoarthritis, especially in older patients. It is also a suitable alternative for severe patients at high risk of surgical intervention.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Advanced Age
Osteoarthritis is common in elderly patients and can seriously affect joint health. Hyaluronic acid injections protect joint cartilage in these patients, reducing pain and improving mobility. This treatment offers a safe option in cases that do not require surgical intervention.
Patients at Risk of Surgical Intervention
For some patients, the risk of surgical intervention may be high. In this case, hyaluronic acid injections offer an effective treatment alternative. The injections minimize surgical risks and improve patients’ quality of life while maintaining joint health.
Who is not suitable for?
Hyaluronic acid injections should not be applied in some cases. Here are these situations:
- Pregnant and Nursing Mothers: Hyaluronic acid injections are not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the effects on mothers and babies during this period are not fully known.
- Active Infection: If there is active infection at the injection site, treatment may increase the risk of spreading the infection.
- Allergic Reaction History: In the presence of a known allergy to hyaluronic acid or injection products, this treatment method should not be preferred.
The Future of Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid injections are recognized as an important innovation in the field of joint health and tissue repair. In the future, this treatment modality is expected to become more widely used and provide more effective results. New research and technological advances will increase the potential of hyaluronic acid injections and enable more patients to benefit from this treatment.
Hyaluronic acid injection therapy is an effective way to maintain and improve joint health. Hyaluronic acid helps protect cartilage by increasing joint lubrication and reduces pain. This treatment method is a safe alternative, especially in older cases of osteoarthritis and in patients at risk of surgical intervention. However, a specialist should be consulted and examined to determine the appropriate treatment method. In this way, the most appropriate treatment method can be determined and patients can lead a healthy and active life.