The Role of Hyaluronic Acid Injections in Non-Surgical Joint Pain Relief

Joint pain can significantly impact daily life, making simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even getting out of a chair uncomfortable. For individuals looking to avoid surgery, hyaluronic acid injections offer a non-surgical treatment option that may help relieve pain and improve joint function—especially in cases of osteoarthritis.

Let’s explore how hyaluronic acid injections work, who may benefit from them, and what patients can expect.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance found in the body, particularly in the synovial fluid that lubricates joints. It acts as a cushion and shock absorber, helping joints move smoothly and comfortably.

In healthy joints, synovial fluid contains adequate amounts of hyaluronic acid. However, in conditions like osteoarthritis, the concentration and quality of hyaluronic acid decrease. This can lead to reduced lubrication, increased friction, stiffness, and pain.

How Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work

Hyaluronic acid injections—often referred to as “viscosupplementation”—are designed to restore lubrication within the joint.

• A healthcare provider injects a gel-like hyaluronic acid solution directly into the affected joint.
• The injected HA supplements the body’s natural joint fluid.
• Over time, it may improve joint cushioning and reduce inflammation.

These injections are most commonly used in the knee but may also be considered for other joints, such as the hip or shoulder in certain cases.

Conditions Commonly Treated

Hyaluronic acid injections are most frequently used to treat:

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Mild to moderate joint degeneration
• Persistent joint pain not fully relieved by physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle modifications

They are generally not recommended for advanced “bone-on-bone” arthritis, where joint cartilage has significantly deteriorated.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Injections

1. Reduced Pain

By improving lubrication and shock absorption, HA injections may help decrease joint discomfort.

2. Improved Mobility

Patients often report improved range of motion and greater ease with daily activities.

3. Delayed Need for Surgery

For some individuals, viscosupplementation can help delay joint replacement surgery.

4. Minimal Downtime

The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients resume normal activities within a day or two.

Relief may begin within a few weeks and can last several months, depending on the individual and the severity of joint degeneration.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Hyaluronic acid injections are typically quick and performed in a medical office.

• The area is cleaned and prepared.
• In some cases, excess fluid may be removed from the joint first.
• The HA solution is injected using a small needle.
• Mild soreness or swelling may occur for 24–48 hours.

Your provider may recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a short period after the injection.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for hyaluronic acid injections if you:

• Have mild to moderate osteoarthritis
• Want to avoid or delay surgery
• Have not found sufficient relief from oral medications or physical therapy
• Are not a candidate for corticosteroid injections or prefer an alternative option

A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies and physical examination, helps determine whether this treatment is appropriate.

Hyaluronic Acid vs. Steroid Injections

Both hyaluronic acid and corticosteroid injections are used for joint pain, but they work differently.

• Steroid injections primarily reduce inflammation and may provide faster, short-term relief.
• Hyaluronic acid injections focus on improving joint lubrication and may provide longer-lasting benefits in some patients.

In certain cases, providers may recommend one over the other depending on the patient’s condition and treatment goals.

Are There Any Risks?

Hyaluronic acid injections are generally considered safe. Possible side effects may include:

• Temporary swelling
• Mild joint pain
• Injection site discomfort

Serious complications are rare but should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts

Hyaluronic acid injections can play an important role in non-surgical joint pain relief, particularly for individuals with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. While they are not a cure, they may help reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay the need for more invasive treatments.

If joint pain is interfering with your quality of life, discussing all available non-surgical options with a qualified healthcare provider can help you determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs.