Intra-Articular Treatment for Joint Pain and Dysfunction
Viscosupplementation involves the injection of therapeutic substances directly into the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to improve lubrication, reduce inflammation, and support joint function.
This includes the use of:
- Hyaluronic acid (e.g. Ostenil®)
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
These treatments are used selectively in patients with intra-articular TMJ disorders, particularly in combination with arthrocentesis or arthroscopy.
When Viscosupplementation Is Considered
Viscosupplementation may be appropriate if you have:
- Persistent TMJ pain
- Joint stiffness or reduced mobility
- Early degenerative or inflammatory joint changes
- Symptoms not fully responding to splints, physiotherapy, or medication
- Residual symptoms following arthrocentesis
It is not used for purely muscle-related pain, which requires a different approach.
How These Treatments Work
Hyaluronic Acid (Ostenil®)
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component of joint fluid.
In TMJ disorders, its concentration and quality may be reduced.
Injection into the joint aims to:
- Improve lubrication within the joint
- Reduce friction between joint surfaces
- Support smoother jaw movement
- Reduce inflammation
The focus is on restoring joint mechanics and improving comfort during movement.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is prepared from a small sample of your own blood and contains a concentrated source of platelets and growth factors that play a role in tissue repair and inflammation control.
When injected into the TMJ, PRP acts in a different way to hyaluronic acid:
- It improves the biological environment of the joint, rather than simply lubricating it
- It modulates inflammation within the joint
- It may support tissue repair and regeneration
PRP is not a “quick fix” injection—it is a biologically active treatment used selectively to improve the joint environment and support longer-term recovery. Benefits are most evident at 1–6 months, with more limited long-term data beyond 12 months.
PRP vs Hyaluronic Acid
The evidence does not consistently show one to be universally superior.
- Some studies suggest PRP is slightly better than HA for pain reduction
- Others show similar overall outcomes between PRP and HA
In practice:
- Hyaluronic acid → improves lubrication and mechanics
- PRP → targets inflammation and joint biology
They are best understood as complementary, not competing treatments.
Outcomes
Viscosupplementation may result in:
- Reduction in joint pain
- Improved jaw movement
- Smoother joint function
- Decreased inflammation within the joint
The degree of benefit varies depending on the underlying condition and stage of disease.
Consultation
A detailed consultation allows assessment of your symptoms, joint function, and suitability for intra-articular treatment.
Book a Consultation
For assessment and treatment of TMJ disorders, including viscosupplementation, arrange a consultation to discuss your symptoms and options.