Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections in Sports Medicine

What are Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are used in sports medicine and orthopaedics to treat joint pain, osteoarthritis, and cartilage-related injuries. HA is a naturally occurring substance in joint fluid, lubricating and cushioning joints, helping to reduce pain and improve movement.

How Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work?

• Lubrication: HA acts as a joint lubricant, reducing friction between bones
• Shock Absorption: It helps cushion joints and protect cartilage from further damage
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: HA reduces inflammation and pain in arthritic or injured joints
• Promotes Cartilage Health: It may slow cartilage breakdown and support joint function

What Conditions can be treated with HA Injections in Sports Medicine?

Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Knee Osteoarthritis (Most Common Use)
• Hip, Shoulder, and Ankle OA

Sports-Related Joint Pain & Overuse Injuries

• Cartilage Injuries –manage pain from cartilage wear or minor defects
• Post-Traumatic Joint Pain – After sports injuries like sprains or meniscus tears

Tendon & Soft Tissue Conditions (Limited Use)

• Some studies suggest HA may help in tendinopathies (e.g., Achilles or rotator cuff tendinopathy), but this is less common.

What are the Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Injections?

• Pain Relief – Reduces joint pain, often for months
• Improved Mobility – Enhances range of motion and function
• Non-Surgical Alternative – May delay or reduce the need for joint replacement
• Fewer Side Effects than Steroids – Unlike corticosteroids, HA doesn’t cause cartilage damage with repeated use
• Can Be Combined with PRP – Some studies suggest HA + Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) may work better than HA alone for joint conditions

What is the Process for HA Injections?

• Evaluation: The doctor assesses joint condition with a physical exam and imaging (X-ray/MRI).
• Injection Preparation: HA is injected directly into the affected joint, often under ultrasound guidance for precision.

• Post-Injection Care:
  1. Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours
  2. Gradual return to normal activities over a few days

• Results:
  1. Pain relief can take 1-2 weeks to appear
  2. Effects typically last 3-6 months, sometimes longer

What are the Limitations & Considerations of HA Injections?

• Not a Cure for Arthritis – Helps manage symptoms but does not reverse cartilage loss
• Variable Effectiveness – Works better in mild to moderate OA, less effective in severe cases
• May Require Repeat Injections – Some patients need injections every 6-12 months