Blog Details

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections: Understanding Their Use and Mechanisms

Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections are widely used for various medical and cosmetic applications, including joint pain relief, skin rejuvenation, and ophthalmic procedures. HA is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in the body, particularly in connective tissue, and is known for its viscoelastic properties, which provide lubrication and shock absorption.

Mechanisms of Action

Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections work through several mechanisms:

1. Viscoelasticity and Lubrication: HA acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, particularly in joints. It restores the viscosity of synovial fluid, reducing friction and alleviating pain in conditions like osteoarthritis12.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: HA can modulate inflammation by interacting with cell surface receptors such as CD44. High molecular weight HA tends to reduce inflammation by inactivating the TLR cascade, whereas low molecular weight HA may trigger further inflammation5.
3. Water Retention and Structural Support: HA attracts water, providing hydration and structural integrity to tissues. This property is beneficial in cosmetic applications, where it enhances skin volume and reduces wrinkles8.
4. Cell Signaling: HA interacts with various receptors, influencing cell migration, division, and survival pathways. This signaling can promote tissue repair and regeneration1.

Applications

1. Joint Pain Relief: Intra-articular HA injections are used to treat osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee. They help restore joint lubrication and reduce pain24.
2. Cosmetic Use: HA fillers are used to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity. They are commonly injected into facial areas to enhance appearance18.
3. Ophthalmic Procedures: HA solutions are used to moisturize the eyes, stabilize tear films, and protect ocular tissues during surgeries1.

Types of HA Products

HA products vary by molecular weight:

• High Molecular Weight (HMW) HA: Provides greater viscosity and anti-inflammatory effects, making it more effective for joint injections5.
• Low Molecular Weight (LMW) HA: May induce a pro-inflammatory response and is less effective in joint therapy but can be used in certain cosmetic applications57.

Safety and Efficacy

HA injections are generally safe with minimal side effects. However, they may cause temporary redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. The efficacy of HA injections can vary depending on the molecular weight and application. In joints, HMW HA tends to provide longer-lasting benefits5.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid injections offer a versatile treatment option for managing joint pain, enhancing skin appearance, and supporting ophthalmic health. Their safety profile and effectiveness make them a popular choice in both medical and cosmetic settings.

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!

At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans using hyaluronic acid for various applications. Consult our experts today for tailored care strategies including Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells.

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!

References

1. Hyaluronic Acid Overview – DrugBank
2. Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid for Knee Osteoarthritis – AAFP
3. Hyaluronic Acid Molecular Mechanisms – Frontiers
4. Mechanism of Action for Hyaluronic Acid – PMC
5. HA Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis – Sage Journals
6. Hyaluronic Acid Mechanism – Orthobullets
7. Intra-Articular HA in Osteoarthritis and Tendinopathies – MDPI
8. Hyaluronic Acid – StatPearls

---