- What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (also known as sodium hyaluronate or hyaluronan) is a natural substance. It is present in the body wherever moisture is stored, acting as a lubricant between layers of tissue to stop friction.
Examples are inside the eyeball itself, the tear film, the joint cartilage, the synovial fluid in the joints, all the mucous membranes of the body, but also the basic substance of the skin which consists of up to 55% hyaluronic acid.
- What are the risks of a joint hyaluronic acid injection?
The risk of serious side effects arising from an injection with OSTENIL®PLUS (used at FAB Clinic) products is incredibly low, though some patients have some pain and swelling for 24-48 hours after treatment which settles. It has no animal proteins in it so is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction; and is suitable for vegetarians. You will usually be advised to rest the joint from any strenuous activities for a few days.
- Who are hyaluronic acid injections most appropriate for?
We are able to offer hyaluronic acid injections for a whole range of patients. Some patients who are quite young and active but are experiencing early osteoarthritic pain through repeated impact activity such as jogging. We also use it for patients with quite significant levels of osteoarthritis who are wishing to remain active and are keen to prolong the functionality of the joint in the best possible way for as long as possible. Some patients opt for hyaluronic acid because of medical or other reasons they are unable to have steroid injections or joint replacement surgery.