If joint pain is affecting your movement, exercise, or everyday comfort, you may have heard about hyaluronic acid injections as a treatment option. These injections are designed to improve joint lubrication, reduce stiffness, and support smoother movement, particularly in people with osteoarthritis or joint wear and tear.
At The London Ultrasound Clinic, we offer two carefully selected hyaluronic acid treatments, Ostenil Plus and Durolane. Both are safe, well researched, and performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement and optimal results. Understanding the differences between them can help you feel confident about choosing the treatment that best suits your needs.
Understanding Hyaluronic Acid Treatment
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in healthy joint fluid. It acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, helping joints move smoothly and comfortably. In osteoarthritis, the quality and quantity of this fluid reduces, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Hyaluronic acid injections work by restoring lubrication within the joint. They do not act as painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication. Instead, they improve the jointâs mechanical environment, which can reduce discomfort and help maintain activity levels.
Relief often develops gradually over several weeks and can last for several months depending on the joint and severity of degeneration.
Ostenil Plus
Ostenil Plus is a high-quality hyaluronic acid injection that also contains mannitol, an antioxidant that helps stabilise the hyaluronic acid and protect it from breakdown within the joint. This may help prolong the beneficial effects of the injection.
Ostenil Plus is commonly used in joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, and smaller joints including the thumb base. It is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis or those experiencing early degenerative joint changes.
Patients who wish to maintain mobility, continue exercise, or manage symptoms conservatively often find Ostenil Plus a suitable option. It can also be helpful for individuals who prefer a gradual improvement in joint comfort rather than rapid short-term relief.
Durolane
Durolane is a highly concentrated and longer-acting hyaluronic acid injection. It uses a specialised stabilised formulation designed to remain within the joint for an extended period. Because of this, Durolane is often selected for patients seeking longer-lasting symptom relief with a single injection.
Durolane is frequently used in larger weight-bearing joints such as the knee and hip. It may be particularly suitable for patients with moderate osteoarthritis who experience persistent symptoms that affect daily activity or exercise tolerance.
Some patients prefer Durolane because it aims to provide sustained lubrication and joint support over a longer timeframe, potentially reducing the need for repeat injections.
Which Injection Might Suit You Best?
The most suitable injection depends on several factors, including your symptoms, ultrasound findings, lifestyle goals, and the joint being treated.
Ostenil Plus may be preferred if you have earlier stage joint wear, require treatment in smaller joints, or are looking for flexible treatment options that can be repeated when clinically appropriate.
Durolane may be considered if you have more established joint degeneration, particularly in larger joints, and are seeking longer-lasting relief from a single treatment.
In some cases, your clinician may also discuss combining treatments or using hyaluronic acid following other therapies to optimise joint function.
Why Ultrasound Guidance Matters
At The London Ultrasound Clinic, every injection is performed under real-time ultrasound guidance. This allows the clinician to visualise the joint, surrounding structures, and needle position throughout the procedure. Accurate placement helps maximise treatment effectiveness and improves patient comfort.
Ultrasound assessment also allows us to tailor treatment to your specific diagnosis rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach.
What To Expect After Treatment
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally well tolerated. Patients can usually return to normal daily activities shortly after the procedure, although strenuous activity is often avoided for a short period. Improvement in symptoms typically develops gradually as joint lubrication improves.
Personalised Care at The London Ultrasound Clinic
Choosing the right injection treatment should always be based on a clear diagnosis and an open discussion about your goals. At The London Ultrasound Clinic, we provide detailed ultrasound assessment, expert guidance, and personalised treatment planning for every patient.
Our aim is to help you move more comfortably, stay active, and make informed decisions about your joint health.
References
- Altman RD et al. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid injections for knee osteoarthritis. Cartilage. 2015;6(4): 206â215.
- Bannuru RR et al. Comparative effectiveness of pharmacologic interventions for knee osteoarthritis. Ann Intern Med. 2015;162(1):46â54.
- Bowman S et al. Hyaluronic acid in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Clin Interv Aging. 2018;13:295â311.
- Henrotin Y et al. The role of viscosupplementation in osteoarthritis management. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis. 2015;7(6): 285â294.