Arthritis

• The dictionary definition of arthritis is the inflammation of a joint accompanied by pain, swelling and stiffness resulting from infection, trauma, degenerative changes, metabolic disturbances and other causes. The condition strikes in various forms, such as bacterial arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  
  

Hyaluronic Acid Supplementation

• Taking a daily hyaluronic acid capsule may relieve arthritis symptoms.
  
  Hyaluronic acid has been show to relieve pain in arthritis sufferers, many of whom have not been able to get relief from analgesic drugs, physical therapy or topical anesthetics. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved viscous supplementation in 1997, which includes hyaluronic acid. There are many preparations available in the marketplace.
  
  

Hyaluronic Acid Shots

• An injection of hyaluronic acid may be the answer to ease pain.
  
  Though it is a relatively new procedure, hyaluronic acid can be injected into the knee of the arthritic patient. There is no immediate relief from the shot, and there is a temporary feeling of warmth, pain and even possible swelling. It's recommended that ice be applied after the injection.
  
  

Long-Term Prognosis

• Hyaluronic acid injections do not reduce inflammation or relieve pain. Instead, it helps the body produce more hyaluronic acid. Generally, it takes about three treatments before improvements are noticeable, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The relief from these shots should last for several months. If you take hyaluronic orally it could take a few months longer to experience results.