Introduction

Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that causes pain and stiffness, making everyday movement difficult for many, especially older adults and those with active lifestyles. As more treatment options become available, patients are increasingly interested in minimally invasive solutions that offer long-lasting relief. One such treatment attracting attention is Arthrosamid, a hydrogel injection designed to ease knee pain and improve joint function. This article explores how long patients can typically expect relief from Arthrosamid injections, drawing on the latest research and clinical experience.

What is Arthrosamid and How Does It Work?

Arthrosamid is a synthetic hydrogel, essentially a gel-like substance, which is injected directly into the knee joint. Its role is to act like a cushion, restoring some of the lost natural lubrication and shock absorption that osteoarthritis damages. This helps to reduce pain and improve mobility. Unlike steroid injections that primarily reduce inflammation, or hyaluronic acid injections that supplement joint fluid temporarily, Arthrosamid forms a more lasting gel-like structure inside the joint. This difference is key to understanding how long Arthrosamid injections can provide relief.

Hydrogels like Arthrosamid have a strong track record in medicine. As a recent expert review explains, “Hydrogels have been used in the clinic since the late 1980s with broad applications in drug delivery, cosmetics, tissue regeneration, among many other areas.” This well-established safety and versatility add confidence when considering Arthrosamid as a treatment option.

How Long Does Arthrosamid Provide Pain Relief?

Clinical studies show Arthrosamid can offer significant pain relief lasting from 12 up to 24 months, with some patients experiencing benefits even beyond this. A recent systematic review highlighted “statistically significant data… at both 52 weeks and 13 months, indicating the efficacy of PAAG hydrogel at one year post-injection.” This same review also reported “statistically significant results at 2 years” from a longer-term follow-up. While the exact duration varies between individuals due to factors such as age and severity of osteoarthritis, this evidence supports Arthrosamid’s lasting effectiveness. Experienced orthopaedic specialists like Professor Paul Lee of MSK Doctors have observed similarly encouraging outcomes in clinical practice.

How Does Arthrosamid Compare to Other Knee Injections?

When comparing Arthrosamid with other commonly used injections, important differences emerge. Corticosteroid injections typically ease pain for only a few weeks to a couple of months, while hyaluronic acid injections usually last for around six months. Arthrosamid’s hydrogel composition allows it to provide longer-lasting cushioning, extending pain relief.

One study noted that Arthrosamid “was non-inferior to hyaluronic acid at 26 weeks and approached superiority at 52 weeks.” It also found “statistical superiority in participants with normal BMI, those under 70 years old, or those with milder osteoarthritis (KL score 2–3).” In other words, Arthrosamid may work particularly well for younger, healthier patients with less severe joint damage. This makes it an attractive alternative for many. Clinicians like Professor Paul Lee carefully assess each patient’s circumstances to recommend the most suitable option, ensuring personalised and effective care at MSK Doctors.

What Factors Affect How Long Relief Lasts?

The length of pain relief from Arthrosamid depends on several individual factors. These include age, severity of osteoarthritis, activity levels, and whether the injection is a first or repeat procedure. Overall health and lifestyle also play a part. Because of these variables, ongoing medical follow-up is important to monitor treatment effectiveness and address any concerns.

Patients at MSK Doctors benefit from continuous support and regular assessments to get the best outcomes. Moreover, Arthrosamid has been shown to be very safe, with reports stating “no long-lasting adverse events.” This strong safety profile is essential, especially for patients seeking longer-term treatment options.

Common Questions from Patients

Many patients wonder whether they’ll need repeat injections, how soon they can resume daily activities, and if Arthrosamid is safe for long-term use. While some do require further injections, many enjoy extended relief from a single treatment. Typically, patients can return to most normal activities soon after the procedure with their clinician’s guidance. Research and clinical experience alike support Arthrosamid as a safe and reliable solution for managing knee osteoarthritis over time.

Conclusion: Why Professional Care Matters

Deciding on Arthrosamid treatment should always involve thorough medical assessment and personalised advice from qualified healthcare professionals. The expert care provided by Professor Paul Lee and the team at MSK Doctors ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to their needs. If you’re considering Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for safe, effective, and individualised care. For personal medical advice, please speak to a qualified clinician who can evaluate your specific situation.

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

Clegg, J. R., Adebowale, K., Zhao, Z., & Mitragotri, S. (2024). Hydrogels in the clinic: An update. Bioengineering & Translational Medicine, 9(6). https://doi.org/10.1002/btm2.10680

Bliddal, H., Beier, J., Hartkopp, A., Conaghan, P.G., & Henriksen, M. (2023). Polyacrylamide hydrogel versus hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis: A subgroup analysis of a randomized study. Orthopaedic Proceedings, 105-B(SUPP_13), 81-81. https://doi.org/10.1302/1358-992x.2023.13.081