Hyaluronic acid is present in high concentrations in synovial fluid, giving it its viscoelastic properties. Thanks to these, this liquid exerts a lubricating action, and acts as a shock absorber at the level of the joints.
During degenerative joint damage such as osteoarthritis, characterized by cartilage wear, it has been observed that the synovial fluid undergoes significant changes and loses its viscosity. The particularity of hyaluronic acid is its ability to retain water molecules, and thus to have a lubricating action. Its presence and action is therefore essential within the synovial fluid.
The injection of intra-articular hyaluronic acid, called viscosupplementation, makes it possible to reinforce the viscoelastic properties of the synovial liquid. The damping and lubricating functions are restored. Thus, movement is facilitated, joint mobility regained, and pain decreases.