Clinical and Functional Outcomes of Intra-articular Hyaluronic Acid Versus Corticosteroids in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study

HA and CS groups significantly improved NRS and WOMAC scores over time (p = 0.001). However, the HA group exhibited superior pain reduction and functional improvement from six weeks onward. At three months, the median NRS score was significantly lower in the HA group (2 (IQR 1-2)) compared to the CS group (3 (IQR 3-4), p = 0.001). Similarly, the HA group's WOMAC score was significantly better (53.4 ± 9.91 vs. 64.2 ± 6.8, p = 0.001). Conclusion: While both HA and CS injections effectively reduce pain and improve functionality of the knee joint, HA provides sustained pain relief and functional improvement beyond the short-term effects of CS. These findings support the use of HA as a preferred option for managing mild-to-moderate knee OA.