Arthrosamid for Knee Osteoarthritis
Arthrosamid is a next-generation hydrogel injection designed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. It works by enhancing the joint’s cushioning and reducing inflammation.
What is Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis?
Arthrosamid is an innovative, non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis that provides lasting pain relief.
Traditionally, osteoarthritis treatment has focused on managing symptoms, with recommended approaches including weight loss, physiotherapy, and knee braces. If these methods are ineffective, many patients are advised to consider knee replacement surgery, which often requires a long and complex recovery.
The procedure involves a specialised hydrogel injection, which permanently integrates with the tissues in the knee to thicken and protect them, all in a single treatment. In addition to reducing pain, patients can experience less joint stiffness, improved knee function, and a better quality of life.
At Welbeck, our orthopaedic consultants are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of knee osteoarthritis. They offer Arthrosamid injections within our state-of-the-art outpatient ultrasound clinic, supported by a dedicated team.
What does Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis involve?
Arthrosamid is a minimally invasive procedure, taking around 20 to 30 minutes to complete. At Welbeck, it’s carried out in an outpatient setting, so you can go home soon after the treatment.
The injection is delivered using ultrasound guidance. To begin, you’ll be positioned on the ultrasound couch, and your skin will be cleaned with a sterile solution before your consultant performs an ultrasound to identify the area requiring the injection.
A local anaesthetic is then given to numb the area. Using the ultrasound probe, the needle is gently guided into the affected area, and the medication is injected. The needle is then removed, and a plaster or dressing is applied.
Once in place, Arthrosamid spreads through the joint fluid and gently integrates with the knee tissue to provide lasting relief.
What are the risks of Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis?
The majority of patients don’t experience side effects after an Arthrosamid injection. In some cases, mild joint pain or swelling may occur, which typically resolves by itself within a few days to a few weeks.
If you experience significant pain or swelling, contact your consultant immediately.
Other, rarer risks associated with Arthrosamid treatment include:
- infection
- bleeding into a joint or soft tissue
- allergic reaction to the local anaesthetic
How to prepare for Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis
You’ll be given antibiotics to take in the days leading up to your appointment. Other than this, there’s little preparation needed for this treatment – your consultant will advise you.
You should not drive yourself home after the treatment, so you should arrange for someone to pick you up.
Recovery and aftercare
After the injection, most patients can walk and carry out gentle daily activities almost immediately. Mild swelling, tenderness, or stiffness in the knee is normal in the first couple of days. Pain is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter remedies, while any additional medications, such as stronger painkillers or antibiotics, will only be prescribed if clinically necessary
Strenuous or high-impact activities should be avoided initially, but light movement and gentle exercises are encouraged to prevent stiffness. You’ll be provided with a guided rehabilitation programme to help you gradually regain strength and mobility, tailored to each stage of recovery.
A follow-up consultation allows your specialist to check progress, answer any questions you have, and adjust your activity plan if needed. This appointment usually takes place a few weeks after your treatment.
How much does private Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis cost?
Please contact our Orthopaedics centre for pricing.
Why choose Welbeck?
At Welbeck, our orthopaedic consultants are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
Booking a private Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis
To book Arthrosamid treatment, you must be referred by either your GP or an orthopaedic specialist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.
If you'd like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck orthopaedic specialist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
FAQs
Who’s suitable for an Arthrosamid injection?
Arthrosamid may be a suitable option if you have knee osteoarthritis that cannot be adequately controlled with pain medication or lifestyle changes.
Certain health conditions may make you ineligible for treatment, and your consultant will be able to provide personalised advice.
What is the difference between Arthrosamid injection and hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found throughout the body, including in the synovial fluid within joints. When injected, it helps replenish the body’s own supply, often easing pain and improving joint movement. However, its effects on knee osteoarthritis tend to be short-lived, typically lasting less than 6 months, so treatments must be repeated regularly.
Arthrosamid, by contrast, is a safe, synthetic hydrogel made up of 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide and 97.5% water. Because it’s non-biodegradable, the body does not break it down, allowing its benefits to last much longer. Its safety and effectiveness are supported by more than 20 years of research.
What do studies report about Arthrosamid and knee pain relief?
Arthrosamid has been studied for more than 20 years and is reported to provide long-lasting pain relief. Studies show high response rates, with benefits lasting up to 5 years, though individual results may vary. Learn more about Arthrosamid’s reported results here.
How does Arthrosamid work?
When injected into the knee, Arthrosamid restores the natural cushioning and lubrication of the joint. The gel becomes part of the soft tissue, continuing to support the knee, with studies showing benefits lasting for more than three years.
