Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections have become a prominent player in the field of joint pain management, particularly for treating osteoarthritis and the pain that comes with it.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is NOT an autoimmune condition (as opposed to Rheumatoid Arthritis). OA is a degenerative condition where the architecture of the joint deteriorates with time and, not surprisingly, it commonly affects the knees and the hips as these joints are exposed to a lot of wear and tear.
While historically OA has been treated with cortisone injections and joint replacement surgeries, there has been a push towards finding alternative options with less risk. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most exciting therapies in this area. This gel-like substance, naturally found all over the body, has garnered attention for its potential to alleviate pain and improve joint function. Its rise in popularity has led to a wealth of research conducted to investigate how well it works against cortisone injections, PRP, and, in some cases, stem cell therapies.
Understanding the Research Landscape
Over the years, numerous studies have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid injections in treating joint conditions, primarily knee osteoarthritis. Researchers have examined various aspects, including pain reduction, functional improvement, and safety.
With the introduction of Health Canada-approved formulations of HA, like Durolane and SportVis, the research into this therapeutic has exploded.
Pain Reduction
One of the key areas of focus in hyaluronic acid research is its ability to reduce pain associated with joint conditions.
A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine analyzed data from multiple studies and found that hyaluronic acid injections consistently provided significant pain relief compared to placebo injections.
Moreover, a study published in 2018 showed that hyaluronic acid injections can provide sustained pain relief for up to six months after treatment, highlighting their potential for long-term efficacy.
Functional Improvement
Improving joint function is another critical aspect of joint pain management. Hyaluronic acid injections can lead to enhanced joint mobility and better overall function. The research that has been completed investigating the use of HA for OA has demonstrated a consistent improvement in joint function.
What remains to be determined is if this improvement is solely due to the reduction in pain, or whether there is an additional mechanism that HA is working under to improve mobility.
As HA is a common substance found within healthy joints, and due to it's joint lubrication properties, it's likely the case that the functional improvements are due to HA's ability to reduce friction within the joint, allowing for the position of the joint to change with minimal irritation.
Safety
Ensuring the safety of any medical treatment is paramount, especially when considering injection therapies.
Numerous studies have examined the safety profile of hyaluronic acid injections and consistently found them to be well-tolerated with minimal side effects. A meta-analysis published in the journal Osteoarthritis Cartilage in 2016 emphasized the favourable safety profile of hyaluronic acid injections, making them a viable option for many patients.
As opposed to cortisone injections, there is no long-term risk of cartilage degeneration or hormonal disruption with repeated use of Hyaluronic acid, making it an excellent candidate for repeat treatment. For those who have experienced symptom relief using HA, repeat injections are a safe and effective way to get your life back, and provide a chance for your body to build up the strength necessary to protect your joint(s) in the long run.
Conclusion
The latest research on hyaluronic acid injections suggests they are an excellent option if you are seeking relief from joint pain, particularly knee osteoarthritis, hip osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). As more research is conducted, the list of conditions that respond well to HA is likely to grow.
These injections have proven to be an excellent option for reducing pain and improving function and range of motion, all while having no serious side effects.
Because each individual response will vary, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment, and the severity of your own condition will dictate how much you stand to benefit from treatment.
Like all medical conditions, a multi-pronged approach to care is going to be more successful than a single injection when treating OA. This is why it's crucial that you work with someone (or a team) that can focus on a holistic approach to healing that utilizes physical rehab, nutrition, and optimal supplementation to support joint recovery.