Arthrosamid® for knee pain
Arthrosamid® injections for knee pain
Arthrosamid® injections offer long-lasting relief from the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, helping to reduce pain, improve mobility and support an active lifestyle.
What is Arthrosamid®?
Arthrosamid® is an innovative treatment for knee osteoarthritis delivered through a single injection directly into the knee joint. Ultrasound guidance may be used during the procedure. The injection contains a non-biodegradable hydrogel designed to cushion the joint, reduce discomfort and improve movement. Arthrosamid® is an injectable implant treatment decreasing joint stiffness, diminishing pain and improving function of the knee.
This page explains how Arthrosamid® works, who may benefit from treatment and what to expect before, during and after the procedure at Sulis Hospital Bath.
What conditions can Arthrosamid® treat?
Arthrosamid® is used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. Osteoarthritis is a common condition that develops when the protective cartilage within the joint gradually wears away. This can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness and reduced mobility as the bones begin to rub together. Although osteoarthritis can affect many joints, including the hips and hands, Arthrosamid® is currently approved specifically for knee osteoarthritis.
How does Arthrosamid® work?
Arthrosamid® is injected directly into the knee joint as an intra-articular treatment. The hydrogel integrates with the soft tissue lining of the joint and works alongside the natural synovial fluid to improve cushioning and lubrication.
By helping to reduce friction within the joint, Arthrosamid® can ease pain, improve movement and provide longer-lasting symptom relief than some alternative injectable treatments. Because the hydrogel is non-biodegradable, it remains within the joint rather than being broken down by the body.
Benefits of Arthrosamid®
Arthrosamid® offers several potential benefits for patients living with knee osteoarthritis, including:
• Long-lasting pain relief from a single injection
• Improved mobility and joint function
• Minimally invasive treatment with no surgery required
• Quick recovery and return to normal daily activities
• Low risk of complications and side effects
• Potential to delay knee replacement surgery
Many patients notice an improvement in symptoms within the first few weeks following treatment.
Who may benefit from Arthrosamid® injections?
Arthrosamid® may be suitable for people with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis whose symptoms have not improved with conservative treatments such as:
• Physiotherapy
• Exercise and weight management
• Pain relief medication
• Lifestyle changes
It may also be appropriate for patients wishing to delay knee replacement surgery or avoid a longer surgical recovery period.
When Arthrosamid® may not be suitable
Arthrosamid® may not be appropriate for everyone. Your consultant will review your medical history, medications and overall health before recommending treatment.
You should inform your consultant if you:
• Have a bleeding disorder such as haemophilia
• Take blood-thinning medication
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have an infection in or around the knee
• Have recently undergone knee arthroscopy
• Have poorly controlled diabetes
• Are undergoing major dental treatment
• Have an autoimmune condition
Alternative treatments for knee osteoarthritis
Depending on your symptoms and overall health, your consultant may recommend alternative or complementary treatments, including:
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Steroid injections
• Hyaluronic acid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Shockwave therapy
• Lifestyle and exercise programmes
• Knee replacement surgery
Your consultant will discuss the most suitable treatment plan based on your individual needs.
Cost of Arthrosamid® treatment
The cost of Arthrosamid® injections can vary depending on your treatment plan and whether one or both knees require treatment. For more information or a personalised quotation, please contact Sulis Hospital Bath directly.
Your initial consultation
During your consultation, you will meet with an experienced orthopaedic consultant or Sports Medicine Doctor to discuss your symptoms, medical history and previous treatments.
Your appointment may include:
• A clinical assessment of your knee
• Review of previous scans or investigations
• Discussion of treatment goals and expectations
• Recommendations for further imaging if required, such as X-ray or MRI scans.
This is also an opportunity to ask questions and explore whether Arthrosamid® is the right option for you.
Before your procedure, you will receive detailed instructions from your consultant or care team. You may be advised to temporarily stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, ahead of treatment.
Please contact the hospital before your appointment if you have any concerns or questions about preparation.
You do need to arrive at hospital 1.5 hours before your appointment to take an oral prophylactic antibiotic.
Arthrosamid® injections are performed as a quick outpatient procedure and typically take around 15 minutes.
During treatment:
• You will be positioned comfortably
• The skin around the knee will be cleaned
• A local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area
• Ultrasound guidance will help ensure accurate placement of the injection
• Arthrosamid® will be injected directly into the joint
• A small dressing will be applied afterwards
Most patients can return home shortly after treatment.
Following your injection, you may experience mild swelling or discomfort around the knee for a few days. This is usually temporary and can typically be managed with simple pain relief if needed.
Patients are usually able to:
• Walk immediately after the procedure
• Return to most normal activities within a day or two
• Return to work when comfortable
It is advisable to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several days while the joint settles.
You should also avoid driving for at least 24 hours after your injection and arrange transport home following your appointment.
Arthrosamid® is considered a safe treatment, but as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects.
Possible side effects include:
• Temporary pain or swelling at the injection site
• Mild joint stiffness or tenderness
• Rare development of a Baker’s cyst
• Allergic reaction to medication or anaesthetic
• Infection within the joint
Your consultant will explain all potential risks and answer any questions before treatment.
Is the injection painful?
A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before treatment, so most patients experience little discomfort during the procedure.
How quickly does Arthrosamid® work?
Some patients notice improvements within days, although the full benefits are usually experienced between four and twelve weeks after treatment.
Can both knees be treated?
Yes. If appropriate, Arthrosamid® injections can be administered to both knees.
How long does Arthrosamid® last?
Clinical studies suggest symptom relief may last for up to five years following a single injection.
How is Arthrosamid® different from hyaluronic acid injections?
Both treatments aim to improve joint cushioning and lubrication. However, hyaluronic acid is naturally broken down by the body over time, while Arthrosamid® is a synthetic hydrogel that remains within the joint, potentially providing longer-lasting symptom relief.
Treatment Overview
Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.
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Typical hospital stay Outpatient procedure
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Average procedure duration 15 minutes
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Covered by health insurance? Yes
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Can I pay privately? Yes
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