HA Injections

HA is the molecule that gives healthy joint fluid its cushioning and lubricating properties. With age and wear, your body produces less of it, and what remains breaks down faster. HA injections deliver pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid directly into the joint capsule, restoring the cushioning that allows bones to move smoothly. It addresses a mechanical problem with a mechanical solution.

Most patients describe the injection as mild pressure rather than pain. We use fluoroscopy guidance to deliver the HA precisely into the knee joint capsule. The injection takes approximately 15 minutes.

It depends on the protocol. Some HA products are single-injection. Others are administered as a three-injection or five-injection series spaced one week apart. Your specific protocol is determined by the severity of your knee osteoarthritis and the product best suited to your case.

Most patients experience six to twelve months of meaningful relief from a single series. Some extend further. Many patients return annually for a maintenance series. The duration depends on your joint, your activity level, and your response to the treatment.

Most patients notice changes within two to four weeks. Full benefit typically emerges over the first three months as the HA distributes and tissue responds. HA is not an instant painkiller. It is a mechanical restoration that takes time to deliver its full effect.

HA injections have an excellent safety profile. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by your body, so allergic reactions are rare. The most common side effects are mild swelling or stiffness at the injection site for 24 to 48 hours. Serious complications are uncommon.

Different mechanism, different timeline. Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory that masks pain by reducing inflammation. It works fast, lasts three to six months, and does not address the underlying joint wear. HA restores the lubrication your joint is missing. It works more slowly, lasts longer, and addresses a mechanical problem rather than masking inflammation.

Yes, and we frequently do. PRP regenerates damaged tissue. HA restores joint cushioning. The two address different aspects of joint pain and work well together for moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis. Your consultation determines whether a combined protocol makes sense for your case.

Light activity restriction for 24 to 48 hours after each injection. After that, return to your normal routine. Movement supports the integration of the HA into the joint. We typically recommend modifying high-impact activity for the first week of a treatment series.

HA is often the next step. Patients who have tried cortisone with diminishing returns frequently respond well to HA because it addresses a different problem. Cortisone treats inflammation. HA treats missing lubrication. We review your full treatment history during consultation.

Pricing depends on the product and protocol. HA represents a larger investment than laser therapy but often replaces the cost of repeated cortisone injections, ongoing pain medication, or surgery. Exact pricing is provided during your consultation.

Coverage may be available through insurance. This will be determined at your office visit. We also accept HSA and FSA payments for eligible treatments.

The best way to know is a free consultation. Candidacy depends on your joint, the degree of cartilage wear, and your treatment history. We assess your case, walk through your options, and tell you honestly whether HA makes sense for you.