Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic pain and reduced mobility in adults.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones within a joint breaks down over time. In the knee, this leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of movement. It is particularly common in adults over 50 and in those with a history of joint injury or repetitive physical stress.
As cartilage thins, the joint space narrows, and the bones may begin to rub against each other. This causes the characteristic pain of OA and, in more advanced cases, joint deformity and significant functional impairment.
Arthrosamid is an injectable hydrogel, a stable, non-degradable material made of 2.5% polyacrylamide in 97.5% water. When injected into the knee joint, it integrates into the synovial membrane (the joint lining) and provides lasting cushioning and lubrication. Unlike hyaluronic acid injections, which break down within weeks, Arthrosamid is designed to remain stable within the joint for years.
Arthrosamid has been studied in clinical trials with follow-up data at one, three, four to five, and ten years.
At one year, pain scores were reduced by around 25%, and 62% of patients experienced clinically meaningful pain relief. At three years, ongoing reductions in pain and stiffness, improved physical function, and good tolerability were maintained. At four to five years, the benefit remained sustained with a consistent safety profile. A ten-year safety study showed very few reported adverse effects.
These findings make Arthrosamid one of the most durable non-surgical options available for knee OA.
The injection is performed by Dr Dan under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement within the joint. Local anaesthetic is administered before the injection. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes in total. Most patients can resume normal light activity immediately, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few days while the gel settles.
Arthrosamid contains no animal proteins and has a low risk of allergic reaction. The ten-year safety data shows a very good safety profile with no unusual adverse effects. As with any intra-articular injection, there is a small risk of local infection, which is minimised by strict sterile technique.
Arthrosamid is most appropriate for adults with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who have not responded adequately to conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, activity modification, and oral pain relief. It is less suitable for patients with very advanced OA where surgical intervention is a more appropriate next step. Dr Dan will assess your imaging, clinical history, and functional status at consultation to confirm suitability.
Dr Dan takes a thorough approach to knee pain management, starting with a full assessment of the joint, your history, and your functional goals. Arthrosamid is one option within a broader set of interventions available at the practice, including corticosteroid injections and referral to orthopaedic surgeons where surgery is the more appropriate path. The recommendation will always be the one most likely to benefit you.
Wow! Dr. Dan was extremely knowledgeable and attentive to my health and well being. I’m so glad to have found him!
I have been going to Dr Wright for a number of years now. He is highly knowledgeable, compassionate, open minded and efficient, I couldn’t recommend him highly enough
I have been a patient of Doctor Dan for some time and continue to consult with him despite having left the UK. Dan has the enthusiasm and energy of a young man, whilst taking the holistic “physician” approach of an old school family doctor, equipped with the most modern insights and technology.
Dr Jain was great. Expert knowledge with practical advice
Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation quickly and effectively but typically last weeks to a few months. Arthrosamid does not reduce inflammation directly; instead, it provides mechanical cushioning and lubrication within the joint. Its effects are more gradual in onset but far longer-lasting, with clinical evidence of benefit at up to five years.
Hyaluronic acid injections supplement the natural lubricating fluid in the joint but are broken down by the body over weeks to months. Arthrosamid is a stable, non-degradable hydrogel that integrates into the joint lining and is not broken down, which accounts for its longer duration of effect.
Yes. Arthrosamid can be given after previous corticosteroid treatment. Dr Dan will review your history and confirm appropriate timing.
Arthrosamid is not a replacement for surgery in patients with very advanced OA or significant structural damage. It is most effective for mild to moderate OA and may delay the need for surgery or reduce symptoms to a manageable level for a number of years.
Local anaesthetic is administered before the injection, so most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure.
Light activity can be resumed the same day. Strenuous exercise is best avoided for a few days while the hydrogel settles within the joint.
The published clinical data shows benefit extending for up to five years from a single injection. Whether repeat treatment is appropriate will depend on your response and will be discussed by Dr Dan at follow-up.
Arthrosamid is not routinely available on the NHS at this time. It is available through private clinics including The Wright Practice.
Book a consultation | Call: +44 (0)207 139 1833 | Email: info@thewrightpractice.com
101 Harley Street, London, W1G 6AH
Rated ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ from 192 Reviews
