Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into the shoulder joint to act as a lubricant and cushion. This helps to reduce friction, improve joint lubrication, and alleviate pain and inflammation, especially in patients with arthritis. It is often used when other treatments like NSAIDs or physiotherapy have not provided sufficient relief.
Mild discomfort can be felt during the injection. Temporary pain or swelling may also occur at the injection site after the procedure.
Viscosupplementation is effective for providing temporary pain relief and improving joint function, particularly in patients with arthritis. The benefits can last for several months, making it a viable option for those seeking to delay or avoid surgery.
Yes, there can be some side effects following a viscosupplementation injection, although most are mild and temporary. Many patients notice slight discomfort at the injection site, such as soreness, swelling, or a feeling of tightness in the shoulder. Some also report temporary stiffness or a mild warmth in the area, which typically resolves within a day or two. In rare cases, more serious reactions can occur. For instance, some individuals may develop joint inflammation known as a pseudo-septic reaction, which mimics infection symptoms but isn’t caused by bacteria. Actual infections are uncommon, especially when the injection is performed using strict sterile techniques, but they do remain a small risk. Occasionally, people may experience an allergic response to the components of the injection, particularly if the hyaluronic acid is derived from animal sources. If you feel increasing pain, develop redness or warmth around the shoulder, experience fever, or start to feel unwell after the injection, it’s important to contact your doctor promptly. These symptoms could suggest an infection or another complication requiring prompt treatment. Your doctor will assess your medical history beforehand to minimise risk and ensure viscosupplementation is appropriate for you.
Yes, you can usually take painkillers after a viscosupplementation injection if needed. It's common to experience mild discomfort, swelling, or stiffness in the shoulder for a day or two following the injection, and simple pain relief can help manage this. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is typically the first choice, as it’s effective and doesn’t interfere with the action of the hyaluronic acid. If additional relief is required, short-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen may also be appropriate—though some specialists prefer to limit NSAIDs to avoid potentially reducing the intended anti-inflammatory effect of the injection. It’s important not to use strong or long-term anti-inflammatory medications unless recommended by your doctor. Also, avoid applying heat to the shoulder on the day of the injection, as this may worsen swelling. Instead, use ice packs intermittently to relieve soreness. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication, especially if you have other health conditions or are on regular prescriptions. If pain persists or worsens after a few days, follow up with your healthcare provider to rule out complications.
Viscosupplementation may help delay or reduce the need for surgery in some patients with shoulder osteoarthritis, but it’s not a permanent solution or a guaranteed alternative to surgery. For individuals with mild to moderate joint wear, hyaluronic acid injections can provide significant symptom relief—reducing pain, improving mobility, and making daily activities more manageable. In some cases, this improvement allows patients to postpone or avoid surgery for several months or even years. However, the effectiveness of viscosupplementation varies between individuals. It works best when joint damage is not yet severe. Once the cartilage loss is advanced, or when bone-on-bone contact becomes constant, injections are less likely to offer meaningful or lasting benefit. In those situations, surgical options—such as shoulder replacement—may ultimately be more appropriate and effective. Importantly, viscosupplementation should be seen as one part of a broader treatment strategy. It can complement physiotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, weight management, and pain medication. For some patients, these combined approaches are enough to maintain quality of life without surgery for a significant period. Your orthopaedic specialist will help determine whether viscosupplementation is a reasonable step based on the degree of arthritis and your personal goals.
The duration of pain relief from viscosupplementation can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their shoulder osteoarthritis. For many people, the benefits begin to appear within a few days to a few weeks after the injection. Once the effect starts, relief may last anywhere from 4 to 6 months, and in some cases even longer. Hyaluronic acid injections work by supplementing the joint’s natural lubrication, helping to reduce friction, ease movement, and cushion the joint during everyday activities. Unlike corticosteroid injections, which provide more immediate but shorter-lived relief, viscosupplementation offers a more gradual onset with potentially longer-lasting results. That said, not everyone experiences the same level of improvement. Some people notice a significant reduction in pain and stiffness, while others may find only modest benefit. The response often depends on factors like joint condition, overall activity level, and how advanced the osteoarthritis is. Repeat injections may be considered if the initial treatment is effective but the pain returns over time. However, your doctor will assess whether repeat treatments are appropriate and safe in your specific case. For some, viscosupplementation may be part of a broader, long-term joint management plan.
The number of injections needed for viscosupplementation can vary depending on the type of hyaluronic acid product used and your individual response to treatment. Some formulations are designed to be given as a single injection, while others are administered as a series of 2 to 5 injections spaced about a week apart. Both single-dose and multi-dose regimens can be effective; the choice depends on your shoulder condition, treatment goals, and what your doctor recommends based on the latest evidence and clinical experience. For shoulder osteoarthritis, single injections are commonly used and are often well tolerated. They offer the convenience of fewer appointments and less disruption to daily life. However, in cases where a multi-injection protocol is advised, it’s important to complete the full course for the best results. It’s also worth noting that viscosupplementation is not a one-time, permanent fix. If you respond well to the treatment, your doctor may recommend repeating the injection every 6 to 12 months, depending on how long the benefits last. Your progress will be monitored to ensure the injections remain a safe and effective option as part of your overall joint care strategy.
Most people can return to light daily activities immediately after a viscosupplementation injection in the shoulder. However, it’s generally recommended to avoid strenuous use of the joint—such as lifting, repetitive arm movements, or intense exercise—for 24 to 48 hours. This brief rest period helps reduce the chance of irritation and allows the hyaluronic acid to settle properly in the joint space. Some patients may experience mild soreness, swelling, or a feeling of fullness in the shoulder after the injection. These symptoms are usually short-lived and can be managed with simple measures like ice packs and over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Importantly, viscosupplementation doesn’t offer immediate relief for everyone. It may take several days or even a few weeks before noticeable improvement occurs, as the injected fluid works to cushion and lubricate the joint. While normal movement is encouraged after the initial rest period, it’s best to gradually ease back into more demanding activities. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions, as individual cases may vary depending on the severity of shoulder osteoarthritis or underlying conditions. If pain or swelling worsens after the injection, seek medical advice promptly.