Joint pain—especially in the knees and hips—is one of the most common problems affecting people as they age or deal with arthritis. At our practice in Indore, we constantly look for ways to offer relief without immediately turning to surgery. One such breakthrough is hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, often referred to as viscosupplementation. These injections have revolutionized the non-surgical treatment of osteoarthritis and joint degeneration, offering pain relief, improved mobility, and better quality of life.
What is Hyaluronic Acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, particularly found in the synovial fluid of joints. It works as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping joints move smoothly and protecting the cartilage from wear and tear.
In conditions like osteoarthritis, the concentration and quality of this fluid reduce significantly, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint movement. That’s where HA injections come in—they replenish the lost fluid and restore the joint’s natural function.
How Do Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work?
Hyaluronic acid injections are administered directly into the affected joint—most commonly the knee, but also the hip, shoulder, or ankle. The process is simple, outpatient-based, and relatively painless.
Once injected:
- HA acts as a lubricant, allowing bones to glide more smoothly.
- It absorbs shock during joint movement.
- It may also reduce inflammation and delay the progression of joint degeneration.
These benefits often result in significant pain relief, improved range of motion, and enhanced quality of life for patients who are not yet candidates for joint replacement.
Are You a Candidate for Hyaluronic Acid Injections?
At my Indore clinic, I often recommend hyaluronic acid injections for patients who:
- Suffer from mild to moderate osteoarthritis
- Have knee pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Want to delay surgery
- Cannot tolerate anti-inflammatory medications
- Are not getting relief from physiotherapy or oral medications
HA injections are especially suitable for middle-aged patients, athletes with joint overuse, or elderly individuals who prefer conservative management over surgical options.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Injections
✅ Non-Surgical Relief: A safe and effective option for those wanting to avoid or delay surgery.
✅ Improved Joint Mobility: Helps restore ease of movement and flexibility.
✅ Lasting Results: Relief often lasts up to 6–12 months, depending on the individual.
✅ Minimal Side Effects: Low risk of complications or allergic reactions.
✅ Quick Recovery: No downtime required—most patients walk out of the clinic after the procedure.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Assessment: I begin with a detailed examination and often an X-ray or MRI to confirm the stage of arthritis.
- Injection: Under sterile conditions, the HA solution is injected into the joint. In some cases, ultrasound guidance is used.
- Post-care: You’ll be advised to rest the joint for a day and avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours.
The procedure typically takes 15–20 minutes, and many patients start seeing improvement in pain and mobility within a few days to weeks.
Scientific Backing & Evidence
Multiple clinical studies have confirmed the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid in managing osteoarthritis:
📚 A 2021 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research found that HA injections significantly reduced knee pain and improved function in patients with mild to moderate OA (Wang et al., 2021).
📚 Another study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine showed that viscosupplementation delayed the need for total knee replacement by up to 2–3 years in suitable candidates (Altman et al., 2015).
These findings support what we routinely see in our practice in Indore—HA injections can truly delay surgery and improve patient comfort.
Hyaluronic Acid vs. Steroid Injections
Patients often ask, “Should I get steroids or hyaluronic acid?”
While steroid injections provide quick, short-term relief from inflammation, they don’t address the root lubrication problem and may even accelerate cartilage damage if overused.
In contrast, hyaluronic acid helps restore joint function and provides long-term improvement without harming the joint.
Cost of Hyaluronic Acid Injections in Indore
The cost of HA injections can vary depending on the brand used and the number of sessions required. At our clinic in Indore, we use only globally approved, high-quality HA brands to ensure safety and maximum efficacy. You will be informed about all pricing options during your consultation, and we always aim for cost-effective, patient-friendly care.
Patient Testimonial
“I was struggling with knee pain for two years. Medicines didn’t help, and I wasn’t ready for surgery. Dr. Anupam suggested hyaluronic acid injection, and within a few weeks, I felt 80% better. It’s been 9 months now, and I’m walking comfortably every day!”
— S**** S*****, 58, Indore
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid injections have emerged as a safe, scientifically proven, and effective treatment for joint rejuvenation. Whether you’re an active adult or a senior looking to move pain-free again, this therapy could be the solution you’re looking for.
As an orthopedic surgeon in Indore, I take pride in offering my patients the latest advancements in non-surgical joint care. If you’re dealing with chronic joint pain, let’s explore if HA injections are right for you.
Book Your Consultation Today
📍 Dr. Anupam Khandelwal – Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Indore
🌐 Visit: www.dranupamkhandelwal.com
📅 Schedule your appointment and take your first step toward pain-free movement!
References:
- Wang Y, Hall S, Hanna F, et al. (2021). Viscosupplementation for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res.
- Altman RD, Manjoo A, Fierlinger A, et al. (2015). The efficacy and safety of intra-articular hylan G-F 20 in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review. Am J Sports Med.