Pain relief and improved mobility: Restores the viscosity of synovial fluid, reduces friction, and acts as a cushion in the joints in cases of osteoarthritis.
Anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective action: Inhibits cartilage-degrading enzymes and supports proteoglycan synthesis for long-term protection.
Application
Assessment and preparation: Clinical examination and imaging confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis; the injection site is thoroughly disinfected, and hyaluronic acid is administered intra-articularly under ultrasound guidance. Ultrasound ensures accurate delivery of the medication and significantly reduces the risk of joint injury or extra-articular injection.
Series of injections: Protocols vary depending on the condition of the affected joint, the patient’s age, and physical activity level. In most cases, hyaluronic injections are given once every 6 to 9 months.
Monitoring and aftercare: After each injection, the patient should limit physical activity for 24–48 hours and monitor for adverse reactions such as pain or swelling at the injection site.
Corticosteroid Injections
Benefits:
Rapid pain and inflammation relief: Deliver a potent anti-inflammatory steroid agent directly into the problem area, often resulting in significant symptom reduction within days.
Adverse Effects
Local: Temporary swelling, injection site pain, hypopigmentation, and subcutaneous atrophy.
Systemic: Elevated blood sugar (especially in diabetics), risk of osteoporosis with frequent use, and hypertension.
Important: Corticosteroid injections should only be administered after careful medical evaluation (imaging, lab tests) and weighing risks versus benefits. The number of injections is usually limited to 3–4 per year in the same joint.
Actovegin®
Benefits:
Improved oxygenation and metabolism: Facilitates oxygen and glucose transport in tissues, which may accelerate regeneration in muscle injuries and ischemic conditions.
Anti-inflammatory effect: Modulates the release of pro-inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β and reduces production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in damaged cells.
Neuroprotective potential: Evidence suggests improvement in peripheral neuropathy and post-stroke cognitive dysfunction.
Application:
Dosage and frequency: Commonly 2–5 ml Actovegin® intramuscularly once daily or every other day in cycles of 5–10 days, according to manufacturer protocols and clinical judgment.
Note: All described therapies require an individualized medical approach, thorough diagnostics, and strict monitoring of therapeutic response and potential adverse reactions.
