http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1231644/1/.html
However, experts are recommending hyaluronic acid (HA) injections
in the knee as a safer alternative to
painkillers.
Medical Director of the Centre for Joint & Cartilage Surgery,
Dr Kevin Lee, said: "I would consider (hyaluronic acid) injection a
safer alternative to things like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs or other forms of painkillers.
"Pain killers if you take them for a sustained period of time, side
effects like disturbances to your stomach, kidneys and heart will
start to come in. As the hyaluronic acid injection is a locally
delivered treatment, it only goes into your knee. It is relatively
safe and does not have the side effects I mentioned, regarding the
painkillers."
Dr Lee added that the hyaluronic acid does not regenerate
cartilage, but does alleviate symptoms of pain and swelling and can
slow down the progression of osteoarthritis. He also said that he
now sees more and more young patients with premature
osteoarthritis, due to a greater participation in
sports.