The hyaluronic acid is an essential component of the synovial fluid inside the joints. Its main functions are joint lubrication, shock absorption, painless joint movement and supply of nutrients to cartilage. In osteoarthritis, it reduces the concentration of hyaluronic acid into joints, leading to progressive joint deterioration due to loss of function.
It is indicated for degenerative (osteoarthritis) of the ankle and other joints of the foot, both mild and moderate. Worse results were observed in very severe osteoarthritis.
The main benefits of hyaluronic acid are its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect (decreased pain and inflammation), it delays the progression of osteoarthritis and may regenerate articular cartilage partially. This will lead to an improvement in the patient's functional capacity. The disadvantages are that it is not effective in all cases and the side effects such as pain at the site of intra-articular puncture or inflammatory reactions (swelling, increased local temperature) that may occur occasionally. Usually produce more benefits than risks.
There are many preparations available in the market with different dosage indications, though the most common are three injections, approximately one per week. Patients report improvement in symptoms after the third injection. Over time, the effect wears off, so the injections are usually repeated once or twice a year, depending on the severity of the case.
