Hyaluronic acid injections are used to help manage joint pain and stiffness, most commonly due to osteoarthritis of the knee. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally within joint fluid and contributes to lubrication and shock absorption. In some people, injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint can help improve movement and reduce pain.
At Northern Medical Practitioners in Newcastle, all hyaluronic acid injections are performed under ultrasound guidance by an experienced doctor. We use established hyaluronic acid products, including Durolane and Sinovial, and will recommend an option based on your symptoms, joint involved, previous treatments and clinical judgement, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Hyaluronic acid injections do not work for everyone and are not a cure for arthritis. We aim to provide clear, evidence-based advice so you can decide whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally within healthy joint fluid and helps with lubrication and shock absorption. In osteoarthritis, the quality of joint fluid can change, contributing to pain and stiffness. Hyaluronic acid injections, sometimes called viscosupplementation, aim to improve joint lubrication and movement.
They are most commonly used for knee osteoarthritis but may be considered for other joints in selected cases.
Hyaluronic acid injections may be considered for people with osteoarthritis who continue to have symptoms despite exercise, weight management and simple pain relief. They are not suitable for everyone and do not work for all patients.
Assessment may include review of previous imaging, and where appropriate we can arrange X-ray, MRI or diagnostic ultrasound, or review imaging performed elsewhere, to help guide treatment decisions.
All joint injections at our clinic are performed by an experienced doctor using ultrasound guidance. This allows the needle to be visualised in real time and helps ensure accurate placement within the joint while avoiding nearby structures. Local anaesthetic is used as needed to improve comfort.
The procedure is usually quick and well tolerated, and you can normally walk out after the injection.
Response to hyaluronic acid injections varies. Some people notice an improvement in pain and function lasting several months, while others experience little benefit.
Any improvement is usually temporary rather than permanent. We will discuss realistic expectations, alternative options, and what to do next if symptoms do not improve.
If you are considering a hyaluronic acid joint injection, we offer a free phone consultation to discuss your symptoms, review previous treatments and determine suitability. This also allows us to talk through alternative options such as steroid injection, PRP or Arthrosamid, where appropriate, so you can make an informed decision.
If treatment is suitable, you can then book for assessment and injection at our Blaydon clinic. No GP referral is required. Our service is doctor-led, evidence-based and focused on choosing the right treatment for the individual rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
We also offer online follow-up using a secure patient platform, allowing you to report symptoms and outcomes over time. This helps us monitor response to treatment and guide next steps where needed.
Knee
Shoulder Arthritis
Hip Joint
Base of Thumb (Carpometacarpal Joint)
Base of Big Toe (Metatarsophalangeal Joint)
Wrist (Radiocarpal joint)
Ankle (Tibiotalar joint)
Please contact us if the injection you require is not listed, as we may be able to help.
Hyaluronic acid injections are most commonly used for osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee. In selected cases, they may be considered for other joints, or for tendon conditions, following assessment. They are used to help manage symptoms such as pain and stiffness rather than to cure arthritis.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of joint fluid and contributes to lubrication and shock absorption. In osteoarthritis, the quality of joint fluid can change. Injecting hyaluronic acid aims to improve the joint environment and may help reduce pain and improve movement in some people.
Response varies between individuals. Some people notice a meaningful improvement in pain and function, while others experience little or no benefit. We will discuss the likelihood of benefit based on your symptoms, imaging and previous treatments, and review alternative options if appropriate.
If a benefit is achieved, it commonly lasts around 6 months or longer, although this varies between individuals. Some patients report shorter-term improvement, while others experience benefit for a longer period. Hyaluronic acid injections are not a permanent solution, and repeat treatment may be considered if symptoms recur and the initial response was helpful.
They work in different ways. Steroid injections tend to act more quickly but may be shorter-lived, while hyaluronic acid injections may take longer to have an effect but can last longer in some patients. Neither option is suitable for everyone. During your consultation, we will discuss the relative pros and cons and help you decide which option, if any, is appropriate.
Improvement is usually gradual rather than immediate. Some people begin to notice benefit after a week, with maximal effect often taking longer. This is different from steroid injections, which may act more quickly.
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally well tolerated. Temporary pain, swelling or stiffness in the joint can occur after injection. Serious complications are uncommon. We will explain potential risks and aftercare as part of the consent process.
Yes. All joint injections at our clinic are performed under ultrasound guidance, which allows accurate placement of the injection within the joint and helps avoid surrounding structures.
Local anaesthetic is used as needed to improve comfort during the procedure.
Imaging is not always required, but previous X-rays, MRI scans or ultrasound reports can be helpful. Where appropriate, we can arrange X-ray, MRI or diagnostic ultrasound, or review imaging performed elsewhere, to guide treatment decisions.
Repeat treatment may be considered if you had a meaningful benefit previously and symptoms recur. This will depend on your response, overall joint health and alternative treatment options.
Not everyone is suitable, and the treatment does not work for all patients. We offer a free phone consultation to assess suitability, discuss expected benefits and limitations, and talk through alternative options such as steroid injection, PRP or Arthrosamid where appropriate.
