Hyaluronic acid (HA) is already widely used in skin care and anti-aging treatments, and it can be used to treat osteoarthritis. Recent studies show that 80 % of patients with osteoarthritis experience relief when given HA treatment, and although some patients do not have the same response, the success rate is more than enough to make HA the new arthritic wonder drug.

Osteoarthritis is actually caused by the degeneration of synovial fluid of the arthritic joints. They break down into smaller units and in effect decrease their own shock absorption effectiveness and greasing properties. HA is injected into these joints to revive and replace poor synovial fluid. In most cases, after a while, patients experience relief. There are also HA tablets available for patients who prefer oral ingestion, but experts still argue that the injectable forms are more direct and effective in providing faster relief. HA treatment is not instant. You will typically have four or five injections before you experience any relief.

HA has been approved by the FDA as a safe treatment drug for osteoarthritis. It cannot be bought over the counter and you cannot administer it yourself. Consult your physician before deciding whether HA treatments are for you. Some patients experience pain after HA injection, and may need to curtail activities for some time. HA treatments do not promise 100% pain relief, and maintaining a good diet and exercise is recommended in addition to treatments.

In addition to being an effective treatment for osteoarthritis, other benefits of hyaluronic acid include: increased mobility, softer skin, faster wound healing, fibromyalgia relief, retinal lubrication, clearer vision and dry skin relief.