Hyaluronic Acid Infiltrations in Munich: Joint-Friendly Therapy for Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Conditions

Hyaluronic acid infiltrations are used in orthopedics to relieve pain and improve mobility in joints affected by osteoarthritis or degenerative changes. At the Gromer Orthopedic Clinic in Munich, treatment is provided following thorough diagnostics and individual medical indication.

Medical Basics

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the synovial fluid (joint lubricant) and joint cartilage. It gives the joint fluid its viscoelastic properties and allows the joint surfaces to glide smoothly.

In degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis, both the concentration and quality of hyaluronic acid decrease. This leads to increased friction, inflammation, and restricted mobility.

Which structures are affected?

  • Joint cartilage
  • Synovial membrane (joint lining)
  • Synovial fluid

Causes and Risk Factors

Joint problems for which hyaluronic acid infiltrations are considered often result from:

  • Osteoarthritis (age- or wear-related)
  • Overuse due to sports or work-related activities
  • Previous joint injuries
  • Postoperative irritation after joint surgery
  • Misalignments or biomechanical overload

Typical Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop gradually and may include:

  • Joint pain depending on load
  • Start-up pain, especially in the morning or after rest
  • Limited mobility
  • Sensation of stiffness or “grinding” in the joint
  • Swelling related to load

Distinction

Acute inflammatory joint diseases, infections, or advanced structural damage require detailed evaluation and are not always suitable for hyaluronic acid infiltrations.

Diagnostics

Prior to hyaluronic acid treatment, structured diagnostics are carried out at the Gromer Orthopedic Clinic in Munich:

  • Medical history: pain characteristics, stress, progression
  • Clinical examination: mobility, alignment, joint function
  • Imaging (e.g. X-ray, ultrasound, possibly MRI)
  • Review of previous treatments

The goal is to reliably assess the condition and determine whether intra-articular therapy is appropriate.

Treatment Options

Conservative Therapy

Hyaluronic acid infiltrations are usually part of a conservative treatment plan that may include:

  • Physiotherapy and joint-friendly exercise
  • Weight and load management
  • Pain medication as medically indicated
  • Physical therapy modalities

Hyaluronic Acid Infiltration

The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis under sterile conditions. A precisely measured dose of hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the affected joint. If needed, the injection can be guided by ultrasound to ensure accurate placement.

Typically, a treatment series of 3–5 sessions is performed at weekly intervals.

Progress and Prognosis

Initial improvements often appear within 1–2 weeks, with full effect around 3–4 weeks. The duration of effect is typically 6–12 months, but may vary individually. If beneficial, the treatment can be repeated as needed.

Aftercare

  • No heavy strain or sports for 24 hours
  • Normal daily movement is possible from day two
  • Cooling is helpful in case of mild pressure or tension sensation
  • Follow-up appointment after completing the injection series

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid infiltrations are a joint-friendly, well-tolerated treatment option for osteoarthritic and degenerative joint conditions. At the Gromer Orthopedic Clinic in Munich, they are used as part of a conservative treatment concept following individual diagnostics.