Hyaluronic Acid for Osteoarthritis: Which to Choose?

Injections of hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) are often considered the first line of treatment to relieve pain and improve joint mobility in cases of osteoarthritis. However, scientific research and clinical experience have led to the development of more advanced and lasting alternatives, such as regenerative medicine.

In this article, we will explore why hyaluronic acid may not always be the best choice and how new therapies, such as Lipogems®, are changing the landscape of pain therapy for joints.

At IMAGE REGENERATIVE we offer cutting-edge solutions for joint regeneration, focusing on treatments that go beyond simple symptomatic relief to promote genuine tissue repair.

What is Hyaluronic Acid and How Does It Act on Osteoarthritis

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in our body, essential for the lubrication and cushioning of joints. In osteoarthritis, the concentration and quality of this substance decrease, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Hyaluronic acid injections aim to temporarily restore the viscosity of the synovial fluid, reducing friction between joint surfaces. This approach, known as viscosupplementation, can offer pain relief and improve joint functionality for a limited period, usually from 6 to 12 months. However, it is important to note that hyaluronic acid primarily acts on symptoms, without intervening in the underlying degenerative processes or stimulating the regeneration of damaged cartilage tissue.

How to Choose the Right Treatment for Your Needs

When evaluating the most suitable treatment for osteoarthritis, it is essential to consider not only immediate relief but also long-term benefits. While hyaluronic acid may be a quick solution for mild or moderate pain, it often requires frequent repetitions and its effectiveness tends to diminish over time.

For those seeking a more lasting solution capable of addressing the biological causes of joint degeneration, regenerative medicine offers superior options. Unlike purely symptomatic treatments, regenerative therapies use the patient's biological resources to promote healing and tissue restoration.

Factors to consider in the choice:

• Stage of osteoarthritis: In early stages, hyaluronic acid may offer benefits, but in more advanced stages or in the presence of significant tissue damage, regenerative therapies are often more indicated.
• Duration of results: If you wish to avoid repeated injections every few months, regenerative solutions offer results that can last years.
• Therapeutic goal: If the goal is not only to lubricate but also to repair and regenerate, mesenchymal cells represent the treatment of choice.

Benefits of Knee Injections with Lipogems®

Lipogems® represents a significant evolution compared to traditional hyaluronic acid injections. This innovative technology uses autologous adipose tissue (your own fat), rich in mesenchymal cells and micro-fragmented fat pearls, to stimulate the joint's natural healing processes.

The advantages of Lipogems® include:

• Deep regenerative action: Unlike hyaluronic acid which lubricates, Lipogems® provides an optimal biological environment for the repair of damaged tissues, such as cartilage and tendons.
• Powerful anti-inflammatory effect: Processed adipose tissue has immunomodulating properties that reduce chronic inflammation, often the main cause of joint pain.
• Long-term results: Clinical studies demonstrate that the benefits of Lipogems® can last up to 3 years, significantly superior to the typical 6-12 months of hyaluronic acid.
• Safety and naturalness: By using your own tissue, the risk of allergic reactions or rejection is eliminated.
• Minimal invasiveness: The procedure is quick, performed in a single session, and allows for rapid recovery.

While hyaluronic acid is like "changing the oil" in the engine, Lipogems® works to "repair the worn components," offering a more complete solution for knee osteoarthritis and other joints.

Methods of Administering Hyaluronic Acid for Osteoarthritis

Although at IMAGE REGENERATIVE we favor regenerative approaches like Lipogems® for their superior effectiveness, it is useful to understand how standard hyaluronic acid administration occurs to make an informed comparison.

Hyaluronic acid injections are performed directly inside the joint capsule (intra-articular). The procedure is outpatient and generally quick:

1. The doctor disinfects the injection area.
2. Ultrasound guidance is often used to ensure precision in inserting the needle into the joint space.
3. The viscous liquid is injected slowly.
4. After the injection, a short period of rest for the joint (24-48 hours) is recommended and avoiding intense efforts.

Unlike Lipogems®, which requires a single session to obtain lasting results, therapies with hyaluronic acid often involve cycles of 3-5 weekly injections, to be repeated cyclically (often every 6 months) to maintain benefits, requiring constant commitment from the patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Hyaluronic Acid for Joints?

There is no absolute "best," as it depends on the molecular weight (low, medium, or high) and concentration, which must be chosen based on the stage of osteoarthritis and the affected joint. However, for superior and regenerative effectiveness, biological therapies like Lipogems® are considered an evolution beyond standard hyaluronic acid.

How Long Does the Effect of Hyaluronic Acid Last in Joints?

The average duration of effectiveness is about 6-12 months. This varies based on the type of product used, the patient's metabolism, and the severity of the pathology. In contrast, regenerative treatments like Lipogems® can offer documented clinical benefits for up to 3 years.

How Much Do Hyaluronic Acid Vials for Joints Cost?

The cost can vary significantly (from about 30€ to over 200€ per vial, excluding the cost of medical service), depending on the brand and production technology. It is important to consider that, having to repeat cycles frequently, the long-term cost may exceed that of a single, more lasting regenerative intervention.

Can Hyaluronic Acid Cure Osteoarthritis Definitively?

No, hyaluronic acid does not cure osteoarthritis. It acts as a temporary lubricant to reduce pain and improve mobility, but does not reverse the degenerative process nor regenerate lost cartilage. To stimulate real tissue repair, regenerative therapies based on mesenchymal cells are necessary.