Osteoarthritis can make everyday life feel harder than it should be – stiff mornings, painful steps, and joints that just don’t move the way they used to. If you’ve already tried physiotherapy, exercise and medication but still feel limited, you may be exploring injection therapy to help you stay active and avoid surgery.
Two options we offer here on site at Pro‑Active Physio & Pilates are Durolane® and Ostenil Plus®. These treatments use hyaluronic acid – a smooth, gel‑like substance already found in healthy joints – to help reduce pain and improve movement. Our specialist advanced practitioners are highly qualified in administering injections using ultrasound for guidance and high levels of accuracy.
This guide explains how they work, what to expect, and who they may help.
What Are Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in your joints. It helps the joint surfaces glide smoothly and acts as a shock absorber when you move.
In osteoarthritis, this natural lubricant becomes thinner and less effective. These injections aim to top up the joint’s lubrication, helping it move more comfortably. Meaning less stiffness, reduced pain, smoother movement. improved confidence and an improved quality of life for you.
Durolane®: A Single Injection Designed for Longer‑Lasting Relief
Durolane is a one‑off injection of stabilised hyaluronic acid. It is designed to stay in the joint for longer than many traditional Hyluronic Acid products and therefore potentially has longer lasting benefits. Research into Durolane has reported:
- Pain relief that can last several months
- Improved mobility and function
- Safe repeat treatments when symptoms return
- Longer‑lasting relief than steroid injections in some studies
- Potential to help delay joint replacement for certain patients
Most people notice a gradual improvement over a few weeks as the joint becomes better lubricated.
Ostenil Plus®: A Single‑Injection Alternative
Ostenil Plus is another single‑injection Hyluronic Acid option. It is suitable for Knees, Hips, Shoulders and other large joints. Patients often find it helps reduce pain and improve movement for several months. It may be more appropriate for those looking for a gentler or more flexible option or those with milder symptoms.
What Are the Benefits?
People often choose Hyluronic Acid injections because they want:
- A natural, joint‑friendly treatment
- Relief that lasts longer than steroid injections
- A way to stay active and delay surgery
- A treatment that supports movement rather than masking symptoms
- Minimal downtime – most people return to normal activity within 24 – 48 hours
Hyaluronic acid injections are generally very safe. Side effects are usually mild and short‑lived such as mild swelling, warmth or aching around the joint or a short term increase in pain.
Who may not be suitable?
You may not be able to have Hyluronic Acid injections if you have:
- A joint infection
- A skin infection near the injection site
- Certain bleeding disorders
- A known allergy to Hyluronic Acid components (rare)
Your physio will check all of this during your assessment by taking a thorough medical history.
How Often Are Injections Needed?
This varies from person to person, but as a guide:
- Durolane: often lasts 6–12 months
- Ostenil Plus: typically 6–12 months
Many patients choose to repeat treatment when symptoms return, provided it remains appropriate.
Can These Injections Delay Joint Replacement?
For some people, especially those with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, Hyluronic Acid injections can help maintain mobility and reduce pain enough to postpone knee surgery.
This is most effective when combined with:
- A personalised physiotherapy programme
- Strengthening exercises
- Good load management
- Weight management if needed
While injections can’t reverse arthritis, they can help you stay active and comfortable for longer.
Who Might Benefit Most?
At Pro‑Active Physio & Pilates, we often recommend Hyluronic injections for people who:
- Have mild to moderate osteoarthritis but want to stay active
- Have completed physiotherapy but still have pain
- Want to avoid or delay surgery
- Prefer a natural, non‑steroid option
- Need longer‑lasting relief to support their rehab
What to Expect During Your Appointment
- A full assessment with one of our specialist physiotherapists
- Ultrasound‑guided injection for improved accuracy
- Clear aftercare and activity advice
- A personalised rehab plan to maximise results
Most people feel a gradual improvement over several weeks.
Ready to Explore Whether Durolane or Ostenil Plus Is Right for You?
Our clinicians at Pro‑Active Physio & Pilates (Tewkesbury & Overbury) specialise in evidence‑based injection therapy combined with expert rehabilitation – helping you move better, feel better and stay active for longer. You don’t have to put up with joint pain any longer. Follow the links below to find out more or to book your injection. We can’t wait to welcome you to our clinic, not too far from Pershore, Worcester, Evesham, Cheltenham, Eckington and Bredon.
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