The Connection Between Osteoarthritis and Hyaluronic Acid Treatments
Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is also known as hyaluronan. Hyaluronic acid is mostly found in fluids in the eyes and joints. Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant in the joints and breaks down in people with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is often referred to as the degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis affects about 27 million Americans. It occurs when the cartilage breaks down and joint fluid deteriorates causing joint pain, stiffness, tenderness, and loss of flexibility over time.
WebMD states that osteoarthritis can occur in young people but increases after the age of 45. Age is the most common cause of osteoarthritis but there are additional factors that can increase the risk. Weight, heredity, gender, repetitive stress injuries, and athletics are also contributing factors. A full medical exam will allow the doctor to check for joint tenderness, swelling, and flexibility. To help minimize pain caused by osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid treatments may be one course of treatment.
Hyaluronic acid treatment is FDA-approved to treat knees. The treatments will take place in the doctor’s office. Hyaluronic acid treatments can be an alternative when NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) have not worked or if you have diabetes and should not have steroid injections. The hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the joint to restore fluid loss and lubrication to protect your bones. There is minimal downtime and side effects after an injection. Several treatments over a 3-5 week period may be needed before you experience any relief from pain and stiffness but can last about 6 months.
Dr. Kerisimasi “Masi” Reynolds is well-trained in joint preservation. To learn more about joint preservation and your options to improve joint health and flexibility call Dr. Masi Reynolds. Each patient will get a personalized treatment plan based on their diagnosis.
If you are experiencing pain from osteoarthritis and are in the Silicon Valley, Fremont, San Jose, and the Bay area contact Dr. Kerisimasi Reynolds and find out how you can get some relief.
