Injectable Treatments

Injection treatments are a second level of therapeutic intervention, after conservative methods, in cases where pain limits our daily activities. In addition to injections of local anaesthetics and anti-inflammatory agents, intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate derivatives are also performed; they are also called viscoelastic supplements because they restore the rheological behaviour of the joint fluid. With advances in technology, many solutions of different volumes and concentrations are available to meet the different needs of each patient.

What is sodium hyaluronate

An alternative treatment option that belongs to the conservative treatments to treat osteoarthritis and other conditions, is hyaluronic acid and in particular, its injection into the affected joint,Hyaluronic injections in various joints and most commonly in the knee are becoming increasingly popular, especially by people who want to avoid surgery.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in synovial fluid and articular cartilage. It acts as a 'lubricant' for the joints and also helps to absorb the shock of the joints. Patients with osteoarthritis have less hyaluronic acid in their joints than normal and by injecting it, we aim to replenish it, thus facilitating joint sliding and reducing pain.
In any patient with symptomatic osteoarthritis or chondropathy of the knee with the aim of treating the symptoms, protecting the knee in the long term and slowing down the progression of the condition. When the patient does not respond to anti-inflammatory drugs. Where the patient cannot take anti-inflammatory drugs due to old age and the presence of other conditions. Patients who have arterial hypertension and are taking medication for this condition may have their blood pressure dysregulated and the risk of cardiovascular or ischaemic stroke is increased.

In mild osteoarthritis of the knee. Improvement in pain and knee function occurs approximately one month after the start of treatment, with a maximum therapeutic effect at two months. Depending on the type of hyaluronic acid, the effectiveness of the treatment remains from six months to about one year, at which point the treatment can be repeated.

The joint is examined clinically by the doctor and the necessary imaging is done, either with a simple X-ray or with an MRI scan if necessary. The joint is prepared and under aseptic conditions the doctor proceeds to puncture the joint, remove any excess fluid that may be present and then inject the hyaluronic acid. The procedure is performed in the office under aseptic conditions as mentioned above and may or may not be preceded by local anesthesia.