Hyaluronic Acid Injection (Viscosupplementation)
Hyaluronic acid, sometimes called "liquid prosthesis" in Türkiye, is an injection that supports the lubricating quality of joint fluid. It can ease pain in early and moderate arthritis.
In Türkiye, “liquid prosthesis” is a popular term for joint injections containing hyaluronic acid. The medical name is viscosupplementation. Despite the name, nothing artificial is placed in the joint; the aim is to support the lubricating and shock-absorbing quality of the joint fluid.
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in healthy joint fluid and gives it its thickness. In arthritis, the amount and quality of hyaluronic acid in the joint fluid decrease. Hyaluronic acid given by injection aims to improve lubrication and reduce pain.
Who is it for?
- Patients with early and moderate knee arthritis
- Patients who do not get enough relief from medication and exercise
- Those who want to postpone surgery or whose general health makes surgery risky
- Hip, shoulder and ankle arthritis in selected patients
Its effect is limited in advanced arthritis where the joint space has closed.
How is it given?
After the skin is cleaned, the injection is given into the joint with a fine needle. If fluid has built up, it may be drained first. Depending on the product, a single dose or several doses a few weeks apart are given. The procedure takes a few minutes.
After the injection
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first 1-2 days.
- Mild pain or swelling may occur and usually settles on its own.
- The effect appears within a few weeks.
- The benefit is greater when combined with exercise, weight control and physiotherapy.
Effectiveness and limits
Hyaluronic acid clearly reduces pain in some patients and has a limited effect in others. It does not stop arthritis or regrow lost cartilage. The duration of the effect varies, and treatment can be repeated at intervals if needed.
Who is it not suitable for?
The injection is postponed in patients with active joint or skin infection, allergy to the product’s contents or marked inflammatory fluid in the joint. Patients on blood thinners are assessed beforehand.
A whole approach to arthritis
Hyaluronic acid is only one part of arthritis treatment. Simple measures such as thigh-strengthening exercises, losing excess weight, suitable shoes and a walking stick when needed support the effect of the injection and help the knee stay comfortable for longer.
Can it be repeated?
When the effect wears off, the treatment can be repeated in patients who benefited before. The interval depends on how symptoms develop and on the product used.
Advantages
A hyaluronic acid injection is short, done in the clinic and allows an immediate return to daily life. For patients who cannot take oral painkillers long term, especially those with stomach or kidney problems, it can be an alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is a "liquid prosthesis" a real prosthesis?
No. Nothing artificial is placed in the joint; it is an injection that supports the joint fluid.
How long does it last?
It depends on the person and the stage of arthritis. In many patients the effect lasts for months.
PRP or hyaluronic acid?
Both are options for early and moderate arthritis. Which one suits you is decided together, based on the condition of the joint and your individual situation.
Can I walk straight after the injection?
Yes, you can walk home after the injection. Avoid strenuous exercise and standing for long periods for the first day or two.
If I have hyaluronic acid, can I still have a joint replacement later?
Yes. The injection does not prevent a future replacement. If surgery is planned, a gap is recommended between the last injection and the operation.
What should I do if my knee swells after the injection?
Mild swelling and pain usually settle within a few days, and ice and rest help. If there is marked swelling, redness, warmth or fever, seek care without delay.
The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.