Introduction
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While traditional treatments such as physiotherapy, oral painkillers, and corticosteroid injections can help, their effects are often temporary. Arthrosamid, a new generation of hydrogel injection, is gaining attention as a long-lasting and minimally invasive treatment for knee pain.
In this article, we explore what Arthrosamid is, how it compares to other injections, and why it is becoming a preferred choice for patients looking to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.
What Is Arthrosamid?
Arthrosamid is a non-degradable polyacrylamide hydrogel designed specifically for treating knee osteoarthritis. Once injected, it integrates with the soft tissues of the joint, providing cushioning and lubrication that can last for years — unlike traditional treatments that break down within weeks or months.
Developed to reduce pain and improve joint function, Arthrosamid offers a longer-lasting solution for people whose symptoms are no longer well managed by physiotherapy or short-term injections.
Why Knee Osteoarthritis Is So Challenging
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time. This results in pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees.
- Daily impact: Walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods becomes painful.
- Progressive condition: Without intervention, symptoms often worsen, reducing mobility and independence.
- Treatment gap: For many patients, standard treatments (exercise, painkillers, or steroid injections) provide only short-term relief, while surgery (like knee replacement) feels like too big a step.
Arthrosamid addresses this gap by offering a minimally invasive, long-term alternative.
How Does Arthrosamid Work?
Unlike corticosteroid injections that target inflammation, or hyaluronic acid (HA) injections that mimic joint fluid, Arthrosamid acts as a soft cushion within the joint. This cushioning effect reduces friction between bones, improving movement and decreasing pain during daily activities.
The hydrogel is non-biodegradable, meaning it stays in the joint, providing continuous support. Many patients experience benefits for up to three years after a single injection.
Arthrosamid vs. Traditional Injections
When comparing Arthrosamid with other common injection options, the differences are clear:
- Corticosteroids: Work quickly but typically last only 6–12 weeks.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Improves joint lubrication but requires multiple treatments each year.
- Arthrosamid: One injection can offer years of relief, reducing the need for repeat visits.
Additionally, while corticosteroids can sometimes damage cartilage with repeated use, Arthrosamid does not have this drawback. It is also suitable for patients who cannot tolerate steroids due to underlying health issues.
Who Is Arthrosamid Suitable For?
Arthrosamid is recommended for:
- Patients with knee osteoarthritis who want a longer-lasting solution.
- Those not ready for surgery but seeking more than short-term pain relief.
- People who have tried other injections (like steroids or HA) without much success.
It’s especially beneficial for individuals looking to stay active, whether for work, sports, or daily life.
What to Expect During the Procedure
An Arthrosamid injection is performed in an outpatient setting and usually takes around 20 minutes:
- Assessment: The clinician reviews your condition and medical history to confirm suitability.
- Ultrasound guidance: A local anesthetic is applied, and ultrasound ensures precise placement of the hydrogel into the knee joint.
- Recovery: Patients typically walk out of the clinic on the same day and can resume light activities shortly after.
Full results are often noticeable within 4–6 weeks, as the hydrogel integrates with the joint tissues.
Benefits of Arthrosamid
- Long-term pain relief – lasting up to 3 years in many cases.
- Improved mobility – patients often report a return to activities they had avoided.
- Fewer clinic visits – no need for frequent repeat injections.
- Non-surgical option – avoids the risks and downtime of knee replacement.
Is Arthrosamid Safe?
Clinical trials and real-world studies confirm that Arthrosamid has a high safety profile. Side effects are minimal and may include mild swelling or stiffness for a few days after the procedure. Unlike corticosteroids, it does not cause cartilage damage with repeated use.
Arthrosamid vs. Surgery
While total knee replacement surgery remains an option for severe osteoarthritis, it involves a lengthy recovery and significant downtime. Arthrosamid can delay or even avoid the need for surgery, making it an attractive option for those not yet ready for such a major procedure.
Final Thoughts
Knee osteoarthritis can be life-changing, but treatments like Arthrosamid offer hope for long-lasting relief without invasive surgery. For patients seeking to stay active and independent, this innovative treatment is worth exploring.
You can read more about Arthrosamid injections and how they compare to other treatment options on Joint Care London’s website.
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