Guided Hylauronic Acid Injection (Gel Injection)

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections

Advanced, Evidence-Based Relief for Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis

At GB Clinics, we offer cutting-edge hyaluronic acid injections for joint pain — a non-surgical, targeted treatment designed to lubricate joints, reduce inflammation, and delay the progression of osteoarthritis. Backed by a growing body of research, this therapy provides pain relief, improved mobility, and often delays the need for surgery.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that plays a crucial role in joint health. It:

Lubricates joints
Absorbs shock
Protects cartilage
Supports cellular repair

It works by binding to specialized receptors in the joint lining (synovium) and articular cartilage, helping to maintain smooth, pain-free movement.

When joint degeneration or osteoarthritis sets in, natural levels of hyaluronic acid decline — reducing lubrication and increasing friction and inflammation. Injection therapy restores this balance by reintroducing purified HA directly into the affected joint.

What Are HA Injections Made From?

Modern hyaluronic acid used in injection therapy is made via bio-fermentation — a safe, clean process using bacterial cultures to produce high-purity, synthetic HA. This method replaces older animal-derived sources (like rooster combs) and is preferred for its superior safety profile and reduced risk of allergic reactions.

How Do Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work?

Hyaluronic acid injections (also known as viscosupplementation) initiate a range of beneficial actions within the joint:

✅ Key Benefits:

Restores joint lubrication and cushioning
Reduces inflammation
Protects cartilage cells (chondrocytes)
Encourages tissue repair

Improves joint function and reduces stiffness

Improves joint function and reduces stiffness

Research has shown that repeated HA injections may delay knee replacement by up to 5 years in suitable patients.

The Science Behind HA Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections work through several biological mechanisms:
Chondroprotection – Helps prevent cartilage breakdown by supporting healthy cartilage cells and reducing cell death.
Proteoglycan Stimulation – Boosts production of essential joint proteins like aggrecan, which hydrate and cushion cartilage.
Anti-inflammatory Action – Reduces levels of inflammatory mediators (e.g. IL-1B, PGE2), helping to control pain and swelling.
Improved Lubrication & Shock Absorption – HA’s gel-like consistency enhances joint fluid’s ability to cushion and lubricate movement.
Support for Subchondral Bone Health – Promotes stronger bone-cartilage connection, reducing stress on worn cartilage.

Are Hyaluronic Acid Injections Safe and Comfortable?

Yes. HA injections are considered very safe and are generally well-tolerated. At GB Clinics, we perform all injections under ultrasound guidance to ensure accuracy, comfort, and best possible outcomes.
Mild soreness may occur post-injection but usually settles quickly.
Unlike steroid injections, HA has minimal systemic side effects and a low risk of post-injection flares.
Bio-fermented HA solutions offer excellent safety — with allergic reactions or complications being extremely rare.
Studies show that guided HA injections are more effective, less painful, and carry fewer risks compared to blind (non-guided) procedures.

Molecular Weight – Does It Matter?

HA injections come in low molecular weight (LMW) and high molecular weight (HMW) formulations. Both are effective:
LMW HA may offer slightly more cartilage-protective benefits.
HMW HA tends to have better anti-inflammatory and longer-lasting effects.
Clinical studies have found no significant difference in treatment outcomes between the two. However, many clinicians prefer HMW single-injection therapies for convenience, cost-efficiency, and patient comfort.

What Conditions Can HA Injections Help Treat?

While most research focuses on knee osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid therapy is being increasingly used across a range of joint and soft tissue conditions:
✅ Knee Osteoarthritis:
Proven pain relief lasting up to 6 months
Increases mobility and quality of life
Reduces reliance on oral painkillers
Effective for younger and middle-aged patients delaying surgery
✅ Hip Osteoarthritis:
HMW solutions offer longer relief
Effective for pain and function even in early hip impingement syndromes
✅ Ankle Osteoarthritis:
Encouraging outcomes for pain and function
Particularly helpful in post-surgical patients with persistent pain
✅ Shoulder (Subacromial Bursa / Rotator Cuff Issues):
Offers up to 6 months of relief for certain conditions
LMW options may be better tolerated in the shoulder region
✅ Thumb (CMC Joint) Arthritis:
Improves function
May be used in combination with steroid injections for faster relief

How Do I Maximise the Benefit?

You’ll gain the most from HA injections if:
You have mild to moderate arthritis (X-ray confirmed)
You’re under 60 or living an active lifestyle
You rely on regular medication for pain control
You don’t have excessive joint swelling
For best results, a course of physiotherapy after your injection is highly recommended. Targeted rehab improves joint strength, flexibility, and helps sustain the benefits of treatment long-term.

📍 Why Choose GB Clinics?

Advanced ultrasound-guided injections

Evidence-based joint care

Experienced musculoskeletal specialists

Comprehensive rehab plans following your injection

Types of HA Formulations at GB Clinic

Product
Key Feature
Duration
Ostenil Plus
High-purity HA + anti-inflammatory
6–9 months
Durolane
Single-injection, long-lasting
Up to 12–18 months
Cingal
HA + steroid combo (fast + long relief)
6–9 months
Arthrosamid
Hydrogel for severe OA (knee-only)
18+ months
Biolevox HA
Enhanced viscosity for advanced OA
6–12 months

HA Injections vs. Steroid Injections

Hyaluronic Acid
Steroids
Lubricates & heals long-term
Reduces inflammation quickly
Results build over 2–4 weeks
Relief in 24–72 hours
Lasts 6–18 months
Lasts 2–4 months
Ideal for mild-moderate OA
Best for acute flares/swelling

FAQs

Q: How many injections will I need?
Single dose: Durolane, Arthrosamid.
3–5 doses: Traditional HA (weekly intervals).
Q: Are HA injections painful?
Mild discomfort – we use ultrafine needles and numbing cream if needed.
Q: Who shouldn’t get HA?
Active infections or severe joint deformities (we’ll advise after assessment).
Q: Can I combine HA with physio?
Yes! We often pair HA with exercises to strengthen supporting muscles.

Why GB Clinic for HA Injections?

🔹 Expert-Guided: Performed by specialists trained in musculoskeletal ultrasound.
🔹 Tailored to You: Choose the best HA formula for your joint and lifestyle.
🔹 Proven Results: 85% of patients report improved mobility within 4 weeks.