Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance found in the body, especially in joint fluid, where it helps lubricate and cushion the joint.

HA injections are most commonly used for osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee, but they may also benefit other joints (hip, shoulder, ankle) where cartilage has worn down.

HA injections aim to restore lubrication, reduce friction, and improve shock absorption in thejoint. This can help decrease pain and improve mobility.

Cortisone injections reduce inflammation quickly but are short-term. HA works more gradually by improving joint lubrication and may provide longer-lasting relief in a lot of patients.

Relief is not always immediate. Some patients notice improvement within a few weeks, with maximum benefit often seen at 4–6 weeks.

Relief can last from 4 to 6 months, and in some cases up to a year. Response varies by individual and severity of arthritis.

Some HA products are given as a single injection, while others require a series of 3 weekly injections. Your provider will determine the best option.

Yes. Side effects are usually mild and may include temporary pain, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site. Severe reactions are rare.

Yes. HA can be used if other treatments haven’t provided enough relief, and it can often be combined with physiotherapy, bracing, or medications.

HA injections may not be recommended for patients with active joint infections or certain allergies (especially to avian products, depending on the brand).

Coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. It is best to check with your provider for details.

For some patients, HA injections can reduce pain and improve function enough to delay joint replacement surgery, but they do not reverse arthritis.

Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Light walking and normal daily activities are usually fine.

No. While most commonly used for knees, HA injections can also be used in hips, shoulders, and ankles, depending on your condition and provider’s recommendation.

Your provider will consider your age, activity level, arthritis severity, previous treatments, and overall health before recommending HA injections.

No. You can use them at the same time and often have a synergistic effect.

Item descriptionAs a physician’s office we are unable to directly bill medications to drug plans. For the convenience of doing same day injections (versus seeing a patient, providing a prescription and booking them follow up to come back another day for the injection), we stock the cortisone in clinic. We provide an ‘insurance prescription’ and a sales receipt so that patients can attempt to submit to private insurance plans. It is not guaranteed that this will be covered even with a plan and we cannot submit on any patients behalf.