Healthy joints are filled with synovial fluid — a thick, slippery substance that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber. In osteoarthritis and joint degeneration, this fluid thins out and loses its cushioning properties, resulting in bone-on-bone friction, pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Viscosupplementation involves injecting Hyaluronic Acid (HA) — the same molecule found naturally in joint fluid — directly into the affected joint. This restores viscosity, reduces inflammation, and provides the joint with a natural cushion, allowing you to move freely and without pain.
Dr. Sarish Sharma uses this procedure as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate knee and hip arthritis — delaying or even preventing the need for joint replacement surgery entirely.
Replenishes the natural hyaluronic acid lost to arthritis, restoring lubrication and shock absorption.
HA injections have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling, warmth, and stiffness around the joint.
Most patients notice significant improvement in range of motion and ease of movement within 2–4 weeks.
A 15-minute in-clinic injection — no anaesthesia, no incision, no hospital stay, no recovery period.
A single course of injections provides relief for 6–12 months on average, with repeat courses available.
Regular viscosupplementation can significantly delay or avoid the need for knee or hip replacement surgery.
For many patients in the early to moderate stages of arthritis, viscosupplementation offers comparable pain relief to surgery — with none of the risks or recovery time.
| Factor | Joint Lubrication | Joint Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure Time | 15 – 20 minutes | 1 – 2 hours |
| Anaesthesia | Not required | General / Spinal |
| Hospital Stay | Not required | 3 – 5 days |
| Recovery Time | Same day activity | 3 – 6 months |
| Surgical Risk | None | Infection, clots, implant issues |
| Repeatable | Yes | Revision surgery only |
| Cost | Fraction of surgery cost | Very high |
Dr. Sarish Sharma examines the joint, assesses range of motion, and confirms the injection site. No MRI required for straightforward cases.
The injection site is cleaned and a local anaesthetic may be applied to minimise discomfort. The area is precisely marked.
The HA gel is injected directly into the joint space using a fine needle. Ultrasound guidance may be used for precision. Most patients feel minimal discomfort.
You rest for 5–10 minutes, then walk out of the clinic. Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. No other restrictions.
Most patients notice improved lubrication and reduced pain within 2 weeks. Full benefit is usually felt by 4–6 weeks and lasts 6–12 months.
Most patients receive a course of 1 to 3 injections spaced one week apart, depending on the type of HA product used and the severity of the condition. Single-injection formulations are also available. Dr. Sarish Sharma will recommend the optimal course after your clinical assessment.
The injection involves a brief sharp sensation similar to a blood test. Some patients feel mild pressure inside the joint during injection. A local anaesthetic is applied beforehand if needed. Mild soreness for 24–48 hours after the injection is normal and expected. Most patients describe it as significantly less uncomfortable than anticipated.
Clinical studies show relief lasting between 6 and 12 months on average. Individual results vary based on the severity of arthritis, body weight, activity level, and the specific HA product used. The treatment can be repeated when relief diminishes — most patients do well with a course every 6–12 months.
Yes. Viscosupplementation is effective for both knee and hip arthritis. Hip injections are performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement into the hip joint space. The procedure and recovery are essentially the same as for the knee.
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally safe for diabetic patients and do not cause the blood sugar spikes associated with corticosteroid injections. This makes viscosupplementation a preferred option for diabetic patients with arthritis. Dr. Sarish Sharma will review your complete medical history before the procedure.
Conservative and surgical management for ACL tears.
Multi-modal protocols for chronic and acute pain.
Non-surgical care for herniated and degenerative discs.
Four-aspect injection therapy in a single session.
BMI therapy for delayed union and non-union fractures.
Holistic non-surgical joint preservation.
Book a consultation with Dr. Sarish Sharma and find out if joint lubrication is right for your knee or hip condition.