Effect of Intra-Articular Hyaluronic Acid or Methyl Prednisolone, or Oral Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study

Osteoarthritis is a relatively common ailment of human beings. The aim of this study is to compare the short-term effects of oral non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications with intra-articular injections of Hyaluronic Acid or Methyl Prednisolone acetate. In a clinical trial study, 40 female patients with moderate or severe knee osteoarthritis received Hyaluronic Acid intra-articular injections. They were compared with 16 cases who had intra-articular Prednisolone injection and 36 female patients who received non-steroid anti-inflammatory oral medication. The results were evaluated in 6 and 24 weeks by Visual Analogue Scale and Western Ontario & McMaster Universities (WOMAC) functional score. Pain relief in 6 and 24 weeks post injection were 4.9 and 4.7 for Hyaluronic Acid, and 1.5 and 1.6 for Prednisolone. The figures for oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication were 5.2 and 4.9 respectively. Subjective patient’s satisfaction was expressed in 28 (70%) of Hyaluronic Acid group and 16 (100%) of Prednisolone group. After 6 and 24 weeks following intra-articular steroid injection in female patients with knee osteoarthritis, pain relief and subjective patient satisfaction is more favorable compared to intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid injection. These two are both more effective than oral anti-inflammatories. This statement does not include the potential side-effects of intra-articular steroid injection in long-term.