Joint viscosupplementation - an effective treatment for joint pain.

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the human body that plays a key role in keeping the skin hydrated and elastic, and in lubricating the joints. It is a viscous, gel-like substance made of repeating sugar units, which makes it a glycosaminoglycan. It can hold a great deal of water — a significant amount of fluid relative to its own weight. Hyaluronic acid products differ in molecular weight and stabilisation (the higher, the more effective) and in their origin (at Clínica Myalgia we only use biofermentation-derived products, to avoid the adverse reactions associated with animal-derived ones).

Médico explicando ultrassom para paciente em consultório

Did you know…

… up to 50% of intra-articular injections end up outside the joint when they are not image-guided.

We recommend that knee injections are ultrasound-guided to make the procedures safer and more effective.

Benefits of intra-articular hyaluronic acid injection (viscosupplementation)

  • Pain relief

    The main benefit of viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid in osteoarthritis is relief of joint pain. HA acts as a natural lubricant in the joints, reducing friction between joint surfaces and thereby easing movement-related pain.

  • Improved mobility

    By reducing pain and improving joint lubrication, hyaluronic acid can increase mobility in joints affected by osteoarthritis. This helps patients regain some of the function lost to the condition.

  • Minimally invasive

    Viscosupplementation is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office. This means patients can avoid more invasive surgical procedures.

  • Quick recovery

    Most patients can resume their normal activities soon after the procedure, with only a few temporary restrictions. This means a quick recovery compared with more extensive surgery.

About the procedure

  • Preparation

    The patient is positioned comfortably, usually on a couch or procedure table, and the area around the joint to be treated is cleaned and sterilised.

  • Local anaesthetic

    Although not mandatory, we always use local anaesthetic around the joint to minimise any discomfort during the injection.

  • Injection

    With the joint prepared, the doctor inserts a fine needle into the joint under ultrasound guidance.

  • Recovery

    Most patients can return to their normal activities soon after the procedure.

Bookings
Homem sorridente com cabelo escuro e pele clara, usando jaleco branco com logotipo da Myalgia, braços cruzados e smartwatch no pulso esquerdo, em fundo branco.

Dr Miguel Reis e Silva

Medical Director of Sport Lisboa e Benfica

Medical Director and Founder of the Myalgia Clinics

What people say about us.

  • ★★★★★

    “The injection completely got rid of my knee pain.” Joana F.

  • ★★★★★

    “I'm back playing football like before.” Mário M.

  • ★★★★★

    “I realised it's possible to do sport without pain.” João S.

Contact us

For bookings or further information, call us (see contacts) or use our contact form. We'll get back to you shortly.