HYALURONIC ACID (SODIUM HYALURONATE) – a naturally occurring component of all connective tissues including cartilage and joint fluid. HA may be injected into joints or administered systemically to treat both acute and chronic joint damage. HA has been widely used in the joints of horses since the 1970’s. It is chemically related to glycosaminoglycans. Normal joints have pads of cartilage protecting the ends of the bones that form the joint and surrounding capsule lined by a synovial membrane. This membrane is very active in maintaining healthy joint function. Among its functions is the production of the lubricating joint fluid (synovial fluid) that helps to reduce friction and wear on the joint surfaces. Proteoglycans, a group of organic chemicals composed of protein and carbohydrate molecules make a large percentage of the cartilage, joint fluid and synovial membrane. HA and glycosaminoglycans such as chondroitin and glucosamine are major proteoglycans. HA is manufactured by the synovial lining of the joint and by the chondrocytes (cells that manufacture cartilage). HA forms a thin coating on articular cartilage and is a component of joint fluid. Joint injury starts a cycle of inflammation, cartilage damage and poor quality joint fluid that ultimately leads to irreversible damage and degenerative joint disease.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Oct 2013 09:00:52 +0000
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