Introduction: The Role of Arthrosamid in Modern Knee Osteoarthritis Care

Knee osteoarthritis is a common and often painful condition affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving. These symptoms can have a serious impact on everyday activities and overall quality of life. While treatments like physiotherapy and painkillers help many, some people continue to suffer despite these efforts. In recent years, injection-based treatments have become an appealing option to tackle persistent knee pain. One such treatment is Arthrosamid — a new kind of hydrogel injection designed specifically for knee osteoarthritis. In this article, we’ll explore what Arthrosamid is, who it can help, and how to find out if it might be the right choice for you.

Understanding Arthrosamid: How It Works and Who Can Benefit

Arthrosamid is a gel-like substance that is injected directly into the knee joint. It works by cushioning and lubricating the joint, mimicking the knee’s natural fluid to reduce pain and improve movement. This cushioning effect can help relieve inflammation and support the joint structure. Research shows that Arthrosamid is particularly effective for people with moderate knee osteoarthritis, providing meaningful pain relief and improved mobility that can last for several months. A recent review found "statistically significant effectiveness of the hydrogel at one year post injection" (Cole et al., 2022). Even more encouraging, follow-up studies report that "single injections of Arthrosamid continue to provide clinically relevant benefits up to 3 years" (Bliddal et al., 2023). When comparing Arthrosamid to other treatments such as steroids or hyaluronic acid injections, studies reveal that it offers "comparable short-term relief with a modest advantage at six months" (Aykaç et al., 2025). Although the long-term benefit beyond this is less clear, Arthrosamid may be a valuable addition in an individualised treatment plan.

Key Eligibility Criteria: Who Is Most Likely to Benefit?

Determining who is most likely to benefit from Arthrosamid involves a few important considerations. Age typically plays a role — the treatment is generally aimed at middle-aged or older adults who experience persistent knee pain but still have some cartilage left in their joint. The severity of osteoarthritis is also key. Arthrosamid tends to work best for those with early to moderate disease rather than people with very advanced knee damage, where joint replacement surgery might be necessary. Before considering Arthrosamid, patients will usually have tried other treatments like physiotherapy and pain medications without sufficient relief. This "knee osteoarthritis treatment eligibility" approach helps ensure Arthrosamid is offered to those who can gain the most benefit. Notably, one study highlighted that while pain scores returned to baseline after 12 months with steroids and hyaluronic acid, Arthrosamid "remained slightly improved," pointing to a longer-lasting effect (Aykaç et al., 2025).

Who Should Avoid Arthrosamid Injections?

Arthrosamid is not suitable for everyone. If there’s an active infection in the knee, injecting the gel could worsen the problem, so this is a clear reason to avoid treatment. Allergies to any of the hydrogel’s components are another important contraindication. People with uncontrolled diabetes, certain inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or weakened immune systems should approach Arthrosamid cautiously. However, safety data is reassuring: studies have found "no long-lasting adverse events related to Arthrosamid injections," with most side effects deemed unrelated to treatment (Cole et al., 2022; Bliddal et al., 2023). If you have complex health issues or doubts about your eligibility, a detailed consultation with your healthcare provider is essential.

What to Expect in a Consultation

If you’re considering Arthrosamid, your first step will be a detailed consultation with a specialist. During this appointment, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and look at imaging like X-rays to assess the state of your knee. They will also discuss any prior treatments you have tried and their outcomes to decide whether Arthrosamid might be suitable for you. Come prepared with questions — ask about the procedure itself, how long relief is expected to last, possible risks, and any alternatives. Open communication is vital for making an informed, personalised decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people wonder, “Can I have Arthrosamid if I’ve had knee surgery before?” Usually, previous surgery doesn’t exclude you, but your doctor will consider your individual case. “What if I’m on other medications?” Typically, there are no major interactions, but it’s always best to discuss all your medications with your healthcare provider. “How long does the pain relief last?” Clinical evidence shows positive effects can last at least two years, with some benefits continuing up to three years (Cole et al., 2022; Bliddal et al., 2023). However, some studies find that the best improvements are within the first six months (Aykaç et al., 2025). Use these insights as a guide for your consultation to help make the best decisions for your knee health.

Conclusion: Taking the Next Step Towards Relief

Arthrosamid injections offer a safe and effective option for those with moderate knee osteoarthritis who haven’t found relief from other treatments. Suitability depends on factors like age, disease severity, and prior treatments, while certain health conditions may exclude some patients for safety reasons. A thorough assessment with a knowledgeable healthcare professional is essential to determine if Arthrosamid is right for you. If it is, this treatment could be an important step toward reducing knee pain and regaining mobility. To consider Arthrosamid, speak to a knee specialist who can provide personalised advice tailored to your needs and guide you through the process.

References

• 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
• Bliddal, H., Beier, J., Hartkopp, A., Conaghan, P. G., & Henriksen, M. (2023). Polyacrylamide hydrogel for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: 3 year follow up results of a prospective clinical study. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. https://doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2023-eular.6038
• Aykaç, B., Dinç, M., Nar, Ö. O., Karasu, R., & Bayrak, H. Ç. (2025). Comparative efficacy of polyacrylamide hydrogel versus hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in knee osteoarthritis: A retrospective cohort study. Medicine, 104(38), e44655. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000044655