Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found within healthy joints. It forms part of the synovial fluid that helps lubricate and cushion the joint during movement.

In joints affected by osteoarthritis, the quality and quantity of natural hyaluronic acid may reduce over time. This can contribute to pain, stiffness and difficulty with movement.

Hyaluronic acid injections, sometimes referred to as viscosupplementation injections, are designed to supplement the joint's natural lubrication and may assist some patients in managing symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.

Hyaluronic acid injections are most commonly used for:

• Knee osteoarthritis

• Mild to moderate degenerative joint disease

• Persistent knee pain that has not responded to conservative treatment

• Joint stiffness associated with osteoarthritis

In selected cases, hyaluronic acid injections may also be considered for other joints, depending on individual circumstances and specialist assessment.

Not all patients are suitable candidates for treatment. A consultation and review of your medical history and imaging are important in determining whether hyaluronic acid injections may be appropriate for your condition.

The effectiveness of any joint injection relies on accurate placement of the medication within the joint.

Unlike landmark-guided injections, image-guided procedures allow the treating specialist to visualise the joint in real time during treatment.

Our clinics utilise advanced imaging technology, including:

• Ultrasound-guided injections

• Fluoroscopy-guided injections

• CT-guided procedures when clinically appropriate

This allows your Interventional Radiologist to accurately position the needle and deliver treatment to the intended location.

Hyaluronic acid injections are performed as an outpatient procedure.

During your appointment:

• Your symptoms and imaging will be reviewed.

• The treatment area will be cleaned using sterile technique.

• Imaging guidance will be used to identify the joint.

• A fine needle will be carefully positioned within the joint space.

• The hyaluronic acid injection will be administered.

• You will usually be able to return home shortly afterwards.

Before your appointment, please advise our team if you:

• Take blood-thinning medication.

• Have any allergies.

• Have an active infection.

• Are pregnant or may be pregnant.

• Have recently undergone surgery involving the affected joint.

You can generally eat and drink normally before the procedure unless instructed otherwise.

Specialist Interventional Radiologist

All procedures are performed by Dr Sanjay Nadkarni, an Interventional Radiologist with more than 20 years of experience performing image-guided treatments.

Advanced Imaging Technology

Our Perth and Bunbury clinics utilise modern ultrasound and fluoroscopic imaging equipment to assist with accurate treatment delivery.

Dedicated Pain Management Practice

We focus on minimally invasive pain management procedures for patients experiencing joint, spinal, nerve and musculoskeletal pain.

Short Waiting Times

We understand that living with chronic pain can significantly impact daily life. Our streamlined referral process and dedicated clinics often allow patients to access assessment and treatment sooner.

Perth and Bunbury Locations

We provide convenient access to specialist image-guided injections for patients throughout Perth, Bunbury and regional Western Australia.