Hyaluronic acid – a progress in the treatment of arthrosis
Natural hyaluronic acid is the main component of joint fluid. It has a lubricating and shock-absorbing effect during all movements and supplies the joint cartilage with nutrients. As arthrosis progresses, the joint fluid becomes "thinner" and the concentration of hyaluronic acid in the joint fluid dwindles.
Since the start of the 1990s, hyaluronic acid produced using biotechnology has been used to treat arthritic joints. It is injected directly into the affected joint and supplements the joint fluid that has been modified by disease. This leads to improved "gliding" of the joint and better "buffering" of shocks during exertion (visco-elastic protection). The body's own production of hyaluronic acid is also stimulated and the release of cartilage-destroying enzymes is inhibited. This provides the joint with better and longer protection and can help slow down the progression of the arthrosis.
Hyaluronic acid preparations are made by a variety of manufacturers. The Praxisklinik München West prescribes a preparation manufactured synthetically without animal proteins in order to avoid allergic reactions.