Arthrosamid Side Effects & What to Expect After Injection

Key Takeaways

• Arthrosamid is a non-biodegradable hydrogel injection that provides long-lasting pain relief for knee osteoarthritis through a single treatment.

• Clinical studies show pain relief can begin within 24 hours, with maximum benefits achieved between 4-12 weeks post-injection.

• The treatment's effectiveness has been demonstrated through three-year clinical studies, showing sustained pain reduction and improved mobility.

• Arthrosamid's safety profile has been established through 20 years of medical use, with minimal side effects reported.

• MSK Doctors is at the forefront of musculoskeletal care in the UK, offering expert Arthrosamid treatment with no GP referral required.

Arthrosamid Injection Overview

Arthrosamid is an innovative treatment for knee osteoarthritis, consisting of 97.5% water and 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide backbone. 

When injected into the knee joint, this non-biodegradable hydrogel provides a unique cushioning effect that significantly reduces pain and improves mobility. 

Unlike other treatments such as hyaluronic acid (HA), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or regenerative stem cell therapy, Arthrosamid becomes integrated into the soft synovial tissue of the joint capsule, potentially offering longer-lasting pain relief.

How It Works 

The procedure is performed by qualified specialists - either an orthopedic surgeon or rheumatologist - using ultrasound guidance. 

Before the injection, you'll receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. The Arthrosamid injection may feel different from other treatments you've experienced, as it's more viscous than typical injectable treatments.

Common Side Effects

Injection Site Reactions

• Temporary pain and discomfort at the injection site

• The feeling of fullness or distention in the knee joint

• Localised swelling around the injection area

• Potential development of Baker's cyst (a fluid-filled growth behind the knee)

Pain and Swelling

• General knee pain and swelling may occur beyond the injection site

• Management options include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers

• Ice pack application

Potential Allergic Reactions

• Itching

• Rash

• Difficulty breathing

Immediate Aftercare 

Your consultant may prescribe antibiotics as a preventive measure against infection. Monitor for any signs of possible infection, including increased swelling, tenderness, oozing, or warmth at the injection site, along with systemic symptoms such as fever.

Timeline for Symptom Improvement 

Pain relief may begin as early as 24 hours after the injection, though it can take 4 to 12 weeks to experience maximum benefit. Clinical data shows that most patients start to feel effects within a few weeks, with significant pain reduction reported at 4 weeks post-injection.

Activities After Receiving an Injection 

After the initial rest period, gradual resumption of regular activities is advised. You should specifically avoid strenuous weight-bearing activities such as running, tennis, or long walks during the first few days after your injection. 

Long-Term Impact

Arthrosamid offers long-term knee pain relief, but mild swelling or stiffness may persist for a few weeks.

Clinical Evidence and Long-Term Benefits 

Extensive clinical research, including a significant three-year study presented at the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) World Congress in March 2023, has demonstrated the sustained effectiveness of Arthrosamid. The study showed that a single 6ml injection maintained statistically significant pain reduction for three years after treatment. 

Patients experienced improvements across all WOMAC subscale scores, including physical pain, stiffness, and function. The Patient Global Assessment (PGA) results, which reflect patients' own evaluation of their condition's impact, remained consistently positive throughout the study period. These benefits were documented at multiple checkpoints, showing maintained effectiveness at 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, and 3 years post-treatment.

Minimizing Medical Interventions 

The long-lasting effects of Arthrosamid mean that patients may require fewer follow-up treatments compared to other options, which can be advantageous for those looking to minimise medical visits and interventions.

Arthrosamid injections emerge as a viable long-term treatment option for individuals with knee osteoarthritis, potentially delaying or avoiding the need for invasive knee surgery.

Unique Treatment Advantages 

As the only intra-articular 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (iPAAG) treatment approved in Europe, it offers long-lasting relief from a single injection. 

The treatment's effectiveness stems from its ability to permanently integrate into the synovial tissue of the inner capsule, resulting in decreased joint stiffness and improved knee function. 

With successful implementation in over 2,000 patients across Europe, Arthrosamid has established itself as a durable and minimally invasive treatment option for knee osteoarthritis, supported by strong clinical evidence of its long-term effectiveness.

Expert Arthrosamid Treatment at MSK Doctors

MSK Doctors provides expert Arthrosamid injections in a state-of-the-art facility designed for patient comfort.

At MSK Doctors, we are at the forefront of musculoskeletal care in the UK, bringing together highly skilled specialists who are experienced in administering innovative treatments like Arthrosamid.

Our team of qualified musculoskeletal doctors and orthopaedic specialists takes a patient-centric approach, ensuring you receive personalised care for your specific needs. We combine our expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide comprehensive evaluations and optimal treatment outcomes.

By choosing MSK Doctors for your Arthrosamid treatment, you gain access to:

• Expert specialists who understand the intricate nature of joint health

• Comprehensive pre-treatment evaluation to ensure Arthrosamid is right for you

• State-of-the-art facilities equipped with advanced motion analysis technology

• Personalised care plans focused on your specific joint health goals

Contact MSK Doctors today to discuss how Arthrosamid treatment could benefit your joint health and look into your options with our experienced specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to see results from Arthrosamid? 

Pain relief may begin as early as 24 hours after injection, though it typically takes 4-12 weeks to experience maximum benefits. Most patients report significant improvement by week 4.

What makes Arthrosamid different from other knee osteoarthritis treatments?

Unlike other treatments, Arthrosamid is a non-biodegradable hydrogel that permanently integrates with the synovial tissue, providing long-lasting relief with a single injection.

Are there any post-treatment restrictions? 

Yes, you should avoid strenuous weight-bearing activities (such as running, tennis, or long walks) during the first few days after injection. Your healthcare provider will guide you on gradually returning to normal activities.

What side effects should I watch for? 

Common side effects include temporary pain and swelling at the injection site. While rare, watch for signs of infection (increased swelling, warmth, redness) or allergic reactions. Contact your healthcare provider if these occur.

Why choose MSK Doctors for Arthrosamid treatment? 

MSK Doctors is a leading UK clinic for Arthrosamid treatments, offering cutting-edge care without GP referrals. Our experienced specialists use advanced technology for optimal treatment outcomes, providing comprehensive care throughout your recovery journey.