Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections, distributed under brand names such as Hyalgan, Genvisc, and Supartz, are beneficial for patients suffering with knee pain as a result of osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in high levels in the healthy joint fluid, and acts as a lubricant and shock absorber in the joint. When injected into an arthritic knee joint, the natural balance of hyaluronic acid is restored, reducing pain and improving joint function for up to six months. Since hyaluronic acid injections do not need to be digested or pass through the blood stream to work, this treatment does not pose a threat for stomach bleeding or organ damage like some other pain medications. The benefits of utilizing hyaluronic acid for the treatment of knee arthritis include reduction or relief from pain, improved mobility, and potentially delaying the need for more invasive treatments such as knee replacement surgery.