Intra-articular Injections at Mediss Medical in Gdańsk

Hyaluronic Acid in Joint Treatment – Effective and Safe Method

Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of synovial fluid, responsible for joint elasticity and proper nourishment. It is essential for joint function. Unfortunately, due to aging, degenerative disease, or injury, its levels in the body gradually decrease. Intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (also known as viscosupplementation) provide a minimally invasive and safe treatment that reduces pain, improves joint mobility, and supports cartilage regeneration.

At Mediss Medical Clinic in Gdańsk, our experienced orthopedic specialists perform intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections. This therapy can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and often delivers results after just one session.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the human body. It is found in large amounts in the skin, synovial fluid, blood vessels, and the vitreous body of the eye. Its unique properties come from its ability to bind water—one HA molecule can bind up to 250 water molecules—making it an excellent hydrator and tissue protector.

In medicine, hyaluronic acid is used not only in aesthetic procedures but increasingly in the treatment of degenerative joint diseases. Initially used mainly in the knees, it is now effectively applied in the hips, shoulders, ankles, and even in small joints of the hands.

How Does Hyaluronic Acid Work?

Synthetic hyaluronic acid administered intra-articularly mimics the natural properties of synovial fluid. It acts as a biological “lubricant”—improving joint elasticity and cushioning, supporting cartilage regeneration, and reducing inflammation. As a result, it effectively alleviates pain and enhances quality of life.

Viscosupplementation involves injecting the preparation directly into the joint. The substance is biologically active—it interacts with cellular receptors, supports cartilage metabolism, and stimulates the body to produce its own hyaluronic acid.

Therapy effects:

• reduction of inflammation,
• improved joint cushioning,
• enhanced production of synovial fluid,
• slowed cartilage degradation,
• improved joint metabolism,
• stimulation of natural tissue regeneration.

This therapy often allows patients to reduce or eliminate the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Indications for Therapy

Hyaluronic acid injections are recommended for individuals with the following conditions:

• osteoarthritis (of the knees, hips, shoulders, ankles, elbows, wrists, interphalangeal joints),
• cartilage damage after injuries,
• chondromalacia (e.g., due to patellar maltracking),
• post-arthroscopic pain and stiffness.

Contraindications to the Procedure

Hyaluronic acid treatment is not recommended in cases of:

• allergy to components of the preparation,
• active skin inflammation at the injection site,
• joint infection,
• blood clotting disorders,
• presence of a joint endoprosthesis.

Relative contraindications include the use of immunosuppressive or anticoagulant medications—final eligibility is determined by the treating physician.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

The injection is preceded by an orthopedic consultation, during which the doctor will assess the patient’s condition and, if necessary, order imaging tests (such as X-ray or ultrasound). The injection itself takes about 15 minutes and is usually performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precision and safety.

After the procedure, some patients may experience mild pain, swelling, pressure, or redness at the injection site. These symptoms are temporary and usually resolve within 72 hours. Cold compresses are recommended for relief.

Injection Frequency

Most often, a series of 1 to 3 injections is recommended, administered at weekly intervals. The exact number and treatment plan are determined by the orthopedic specialist, depending on the degree of joint degeneration and the patient’s individual needs. Patients can resume daily activities immediately after the injection, although strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few days.

When Can You Expect Results?

Initial improvement is usually noticeable after 7–10 days, with full therapeutic effects typically achieved within about 4 weeks. The benefits of hyaluronic acid can last up to 12 months, after which the treatment may be repeated.

It’s important to note that injections do not eliminate the underlying cause of osteoarthritis—they are a highly effective part of symptomatic treatment. Best results are achieved when combined with appropriate rehabilitation.

Cost of Therapy

The price of a hyaluronic acid injection ranges from 300 to 1,000 PLN, depending on the type and quality of the preparation, its concentration, molecular weight, and production technology.

Hyaluronic Acid Therapy in Gdańsk – Mediss Medical Clinic

We perform viscosupplementation procedures at our medical clinic in Gdańsk using advanced equipment and an experienced team of specialists. Our goal is to help patients regain comfort and full mobility. We invite you to schedule an orthopedic consultation—many of our patients have already benefited from this form of therapy with excellent results.