The Truth About Hyaluronic Acid Injections and Knee Arthritis

In this video, we delve into hyaluronic acid (HA) injections for arthritis. HA, naturally found in joint synovial fluid, helps lubricate and cushion joints. Injected HA has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, aiming to restore joint fluid viscosity and elasticity. Despite controversy, with some medical guidelines advising against HA for knee osteoarthritis, others, like the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, recommend it for patients over 60. The effectiveness of HA injections largely depends on the method of administration. Ultrasound-guided injections, compared to landmark-based ones, show higher accuracy and better outcomes, especially in obese patients. Studies indicate fewer patients need knee replacements after ultrasound-guided HA injections. HA injections are often covered by insurance for knee arthritis, making them a viable option to improve pain and function when administered correctly.

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► ABOUT ME

Jeffrey Peng MD is a nonoperative orthopedist and sports medicine specialist. He focuses on maximizing non-surgical treatments for sports injuries and orthopedic conditions. He specializes in using orthobiologics and ultrasound guided minimally invasive techniques to treat osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Dr. Peng is board certified in sports medicine and family medicine. He completed residency with the Stanford family medicine residency program and completed his sports medicine training with the Stanford primary care sports medicine fellowship in San Jose. He is an active faculty member for both programs and is excited about training the next generation of physicians.

Dr. Peng’s sports medicine clinic is located in Campbell, California.

► Disclaimer

My content reflects my own opinion and does not represent the views or opinions of my employers or hospital systems I am affiliated with. They are meant for educational purposes only. They do not substitute for the medical advice of a physician. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health.

[chrisv]

6 injections in right knee last year, I`ve been pain free for over a year

[ScottSummerill]

Sure didn't work for me. Felt relief for about one day. Was ultrasound guided. Can't believe insurance actually covers it. Have mild arthritis and an age degraded meniscus. About to try PRP with a highly knowledgeable doc. Might be beneficial, since it is essentially free, to follow-up PRP with gel. Will further discuss with PRP doc, who did not administer the gel shot.

[Ian-wneb]

Oh, mom's doctor dont use ultra sound. Doctors here in cebu doesnt seem to use ultrasound guided injection method

[slowens]

Can I switch back to cortizone if I give HA a try?

[Ian-wneb]

You did HLA video last year and many times. You even compared this with prp. Mama had a positive effect since she got her injection. She will undergo another HLA shot in 2 weeks. It's overdue delayed already. Her knees used to swell a lot. We followed every advice you gave including her exercise regimen. I forgot to say thank you so much. Truly greatful and appreciate your effort. God Bless

[ericlodewijk]

I had six injections with HA in my left knee which developed arthritis due to ACL surgery twenty years previously.It had zero effect on my pain and and on my mobility.I went on four months ago with a robotic full knee replacement sparing the PCL and could not be happier.I play singles tennis, hike and run several miles miles on the treadmill without any problems.I believe, confirmed by several of my tennis buddies, that these injections are useless and i would not recommend to anybody

[casamed]

We want a live demonstration about PRP injection

[cristinabuenaventura]

Hi. How about OA in the cervical spine?