Hyaluronic acid can be used for aesthetic, but also medical purposes. It is a viscous liquid naturally present in the body and tolerated by all, but in which case is its use recommended?
What is viscosupplementation?
Viscosupplementation or infiltration by injection of hyaluronic acid is a medical technique commonly used to treat osteoarthritis, a disease that affects the joints and can cause pain and reduced mobility. This non-surgical technique involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the affected joint, which helps relieve pain and improve joint function.
How does the injection work?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, where it plays an important role in joint lubrication. It makes up the synovial fluid or "synovium". However, in cases of osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid breaks down and no longer fulfills its lubricating function effectively, which can cause pain and stiffness in the joints. Infiltrations can be carried out in most joints, from the hip to the knee.
There acid injection viscosupplementation hyaluronic acid aims to restore viscosity and lubrication to the affected joint, which reduces pain and improves mobility. Treatment is usually performed on an outpatient basis by a trained healthcare professional, such as a doctor or rheumatologist.
The number of injections needed varies depending on the severity of the condition, but it is common to administer one to five injections, at intervals of a few days to a few weeks. Hyaluronic acid injections are generally considered safe, with few serious side effects, such as pain at the injection site, bruising, or mild swelling.
The advantages of viscosupplementation by injection of hyaluronic acid are numerous. It can relieve pain and improve mobility in the affected joint, allowing patients to regain a normal quality of life. In addition, it is non-surgical, which means that it can be an effective alternative to more invasive surgical treatments, such as joint prosthesis.
For who ?
However, it is important to note that viscosupplementation by injection of hyaluronic acid is not suitable for all patients with osteoarthritis. It is generally recommended for patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, and may not be effective for more severe cases. Patients with allergies or sensitivities to hyaluronic acid or other substances used in treatment should also avoid this technique.
In conclusion, viscosupplementation by injection of hyaluronic acid is a non-surgical treatment option for osteoarthritis that can improve mobility and relieve pain in the affected joint. However, it is not suitable for all patients with osteoarthritis, and it is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare professional before deciding if this treatment is best indicated.
