By Dr. Michael Henry
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a debilitating condition that causes pain and stiffness, and impacts your quality of life.
Fortunately, there are treatment options available besides a surgical knee replacement, and Hyaluronic Acid (HA) injections have gained attention as one viable and effective option.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease where a breakdown of the cartilage within the knee joint occurs. The cartilage is the protective soft tissue that cushions the ends of bones in the knee joint. As your cartilage deteriorates, the bones can rub up against each other leading to pain, swelling, a loss of mobility, and the development of bone growths or bone spurs called osteophytes.
How Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance found in joint fluid. It acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping joints function smoothly in their movement, and reducing friction. In people with knee osteoarthritis, the hyaluronic acid in their joints may diminish over time. HA injections, also known as viscosupplementation, aim to restore the lubrication effect of HA.
During the procedure, the HA is injected directly into the knee joint. This is a fast and safe procedure that can be done by Naturopathic Doctors and Medical Doctors who have extensive training and experience administering these injections. At Foundation Kelowna, we perform HA injections under ultrasound guidance to enhance accuracy and improve treatment results.
The injected HA helps reduce friction, alleviate pain, and improve joint mobility. The treatment typically consists of one or more injections, and the research suggests that improvements from one injection typically lasts around 3-6 months, with some people getting much longer relief.
What to Expect
Consultation: Your journey with Hyaluronic Acid injections begins with a consultation with a healthcare professional. They will evaluate your condition and determine if you're a suitable candidate - having x-rays/imaging demonstrating your osteoarthritis is recommended.
Procedure: The injection itself is relatively quick and is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a doctor's office. It involves minimal downtime, and you can usually resume your daily activities immediately. For more intensive activity, a recovery period is needed, the length of which depends on the severity of your OA.
Results: Many individuals experience pain relief and improved joint function within a few weeks of starting the injections, however, individual responses vary.
Is It Right for You?
While Hyaluronic Acid injections can be effective for some, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors like the severity of your osteoarthritis and individual health considerations should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
In Canada, there are different Hyaluronic Acid products (such as Durolane) that are approved by Health Canada for use in knee osteoarthritis.
Ask your doctor if you may be a suitable candidate for Durolane. Some extended insurance plans include coverage for this product.
Hyaluronic Acid injections offer hope for individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis. They can provide pain relief and enhance joint mobility, potentially delaying the need for more invasive interventions like surgery. If you're experiencing knee osteoarthritis, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if hyaluronic acid injections are the right option for you.