A bone growth-promoting composition is provided comprising hyaluronic acid and a growth factor. The composition has a viscosity and biodegradability sufficient to persist at an intra-articular site of desired bone growth for a period of time sufficient to promote the bone growth. Preferably hyaluronic acid is used in a composition range of 0.1–4% by weight and preferred growth factor is bFGF, present in a concentration range of about 10−6 to 100 mg/ml.