Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing pain, stiffness, and making everyday activities more challenging. As the protective cartilage in the knee gradually wears down, inflammation can develop, leading to discomfort and decreased mobility. Fortunately, a new treatment called Arthrosamid is bringing new hope. This innovative, single-injection gel not only relieves pain but also improves daily comfort and movement for longer periods than many traditional therapies. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what knee osteoarthritis is, why current treatments often fall short, how Arthrosamid works, the research behind it, what patients can expect from treatment, and the promising future of this therapy.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis and the Need for Better Treatments
Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage—the smooth tissue that cushions and protects your knee joint —starts to break down. Often, the joint lining (synovium) also becomes inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and problems with moving freely. About one in five adults over age 45 in England is affected by knee osteoarthritis , making it a leading reason for limited mobility.
Most current treatments focus on controlling symptoms. Common options include painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy exercises , and joint injections like hyaluronic acid , which aim to lubricate the knee. However, these treatments usually offer only short-term relief and often need to be repeated. Many people still experience persistent pain and stiffness, making daily life more difficult. This ongoing need for better solutions highlights the demand for treatments that can provide longer-lasting comfort and help people regain their mobility.
How Arthrosamid Works—and What Makes It Different
Arthrosamid is a hydrogel made primarily of water (97.5%) and a small portion (2.5%) of a synthetic polymer called polyacrylamide. It is injected directly into the knee joint in a quick, outpatient procedure that uses only local anaesthesia, so you don’t need to be put to sleep or stay in the hospital.
What sets Arthrosamid apart is its unique double action. First, it boosts the thickness and smoothness of the joint fluid, helping the knee move more easily—much like natural synovial fluid does. Second, it integrates with the joint lining to create a cushioning “scaffold” that reduces pressure on worn cartilage and supports the joint. Unlike many other injections that wear off in a matter of weeks or months, Arthrosamid remains in the joint for much longer, reducing the need for frequent treatments.
The injection is minimally invasive, often guided by ultrasound to ensure precision, and is usually completed during a routine clinic visit.
The Evidence: Lasting Pain Relief and Better Mobility
A growing body of research supports the benefits of Arthrosamid . For instance, a large, high-quality clinical trial found that Arthrosamid worked just as well as hyaluronic acid injections after six months. By 12 months, it even performed better in certain groups, especially people under 70, those with a healthy weight, and those with moderate knee damage.
A recent systematic review also found that Arthrosamid not only provided meaningful improvements in pain and joint function, but these benefits lasted for at least two years after just a single injection.
Real-world studies echo these positive results. Many patients reported their pain levels dropping from severe to mild or moderate within three months of treatment, with improvements lasting at least a year. Functional improvements were also significant, with most people noticing a real difference in their daily activities.
Importantly, studies also show that Arthrosamid is safe, with very few side effects and no reports of serious or long-lasting complications.
All this evidence points to Arthrosamid ’s potential to deliver sustained pain relief and improved movement, helping people get back to enjoying their everyday lives.
What to Expect: The Arthrosamid Treatment Experience
Getting an Arthrosamid injection is simple and convenient. The area around your knee is numbed with a local anaesthetic, and then the gel is injected in a single step—often using ultrasound to help guide the needle exactly where it needs to go.
Most people experience only mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which settles down within a few days to a few weeks. Serious reactions are rare, but if you notice increasing pain, redness, or swelling, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away.
After the procedure, you’ll be encouraged to keep taking any usual pain medication as advised and to continue with a physiotherapy-based exercise program. Gradually resuming low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling can help rebuild strength and flexibility. Maintaining a healthy weight and using knee-friendly techniques during daily activities can further protect your joints and prolong the benefits of treatment.
Looking Ahead: Who Benefits Most and What’s Next for Arthrosamid
Researchers are continuing to study Arthrosamid , following patients for several years to better understand its long-term effects. Early findings suggest that younger adults, those at a healthy weight, and people with moderate knee damage may see especially good results.
There is growing interest in exploring whether repeat injections or treatment of both knees could offer extra benefits or suit certain patients. As new studies are completed, Arthrosamid is increasingly seen as a valuable addition to personalised knee osteoarthritis treatment plans—potentially helping people avoid or delay surgery and improving daily quality of life.
In Summary
Arthrosamid represents a fresh, effective approach to treating knee osteoarthritis . With just a single injection, many patients experience long-lasting relief from pain and enjoy better knee function. This innovative hydrogel technology fills critical gaps left by conventional treatments, offering renewed mobility and comfort. When combined with proper rehabilitation and healthy lifestyle choices, Arthrosamid has the potential to make a real difference in the everyday lives of people living with knee osteoarthritis .
References
1. Bliddal et al., Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis: 3-Year Follow-up. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 2023.
2. Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing Arthrosamid with Hyaluronic Acid. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, 2022.
3. Public Health England, Epidemiology of Knee Osteoarthritis in England.
4. Dries T., et al., Effects of a Semi-Rigid Knee Brace on Mobility and Pain in Knee Osteoarthritis. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine Clinical Communications, 2022.
5. Gao, H. C. K., Akhtar, M., Creedon, C., Nar, Ö. O., Verma, T., & Lee, P. Y. F. (2025). Polyacrylamide hydrogel injections in knee osteoarthritis: A PROMs-based 24 month cohort study. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcot.2025.103136
6. Cole, A., Maulana, R. K., Whitehead, J. P., & Lee, P. Y. F. (2022). A systematic review of the novel compound Arthrosamid Polyacrylamide (PAAG) hydrogel for treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Medical Research Archives, 10(8). https://doi.org/10.18103/mra.v10i8.2950
Frequently Asked Questions
Arthrosamid® stands out by providing a durable, single-injection treatment that addresses both pain and mobility. At AMSK Clinic, our experienced medical team uses advanced ultrasound guidance for precision, ensuring optimal results. The hydrogel cushions and supports your knee joint, helping to improve movement and reduce discomfort for longer than most traditional therapies.
At AMSK Clinic, Arthrosamid® injections are conducted as a quick, outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia, minimising discomfort. Our clinicians use ultrasound guidance to accurately place the gel, which boosts safety and effectiveness. Most patients report only mild swelling or discomfort, which typically resolves soon after the procedure.
Patients at AMSK Clinic benefit from Arthrosamid®’s long-lasting pain relief and improved knee function following a simple injection. Our clinic offers a comprehensive approach, combining this innovative therapy with recommended physiotherapy and personalised support, ensuring the best possible outcomes and helping you regain your daily mobility and comfort.
Research indicates that younger adults, those with a healthy weight, and people with moderate knee damage see particularly strong results. At AMSK Clinic, our specialists carefully assess each patient to determine if Arthrosamid® is the most suitable option, providing tailored care for maximum benefit and enhanced quality of life.
AMSK Clinic is dedicated to innovative, patient-centred care, backed by experience with advanced treatments like Arthrosamid®. Our team uses the latest technology to deliver safe, precise injections and supports your recovery through personalised rehabilitation. This expertise ensures you receive high quality, comprehensive care at every step.