Arthrosamid Injections for Knee Arthritis Pain Relief

Arthrosamid Injection for Knee Arthritis

Knee osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty with walking, stairs and exercise.

For many people, treatment starts with exercise, physiotherapy, weight management where appropriate and pain relief. However, if symptoms continue, some patients begin considering injection treatments.

One newer option is the Arthrosamid injection.

What Is Arthrosamid?

Arthrosamid is a polyacrylamide hydrogel injection used for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

It is made from approximately:

• 97.5% water
• 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide

Unlike steroid or hyaluronic acid injections, Arthrosamid is designed to remain within the knee joint and integrate with the synovial lining.

It is intended to reduce pain and improve function, but it is not a cure for arthritis and has not been proven to regrow cartilage.

What Does the Research Show?

Research into Arthrosamid is growing.

A randomised controlled trial involving 239 adults with knee osteoarthritis compared polyacrylamide hydrogel with hyaluronic acid.

Longer-term studies have reported improvements in pain, stiffness and function lasting for several years in some patients.

However, these studies have smaller numbers of participants over time, and more high-quality independent research is still needed.

A 2026 review concluded that polyacrylamide hydrogel injections appear promising, but the evidence base still has limitations and further research is required.

What Does NICE Say?

NICE has considered Arthrosamid for knee osteoarthritis.

At present, NICE has not recommended Arthrosamid for routine use and stated that there was insufficient evidence to select it for Health Technology Evaluation guidance.

This does not mean the treatment does not work. It means the evidence is not yet strong enough for NICE to make a formal recommendation.

How Long Can Arthrosamid Last?

Some studies have reported improvements lasting:

• 1 year
• 2 – 3 years
• Up to 5 years in selected follow-up groups

However, this does not mean everyone will experience long-lasting pain relief.

Results vary from person to person.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Possible side effects include:

• Temporary knee pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Joint discomfort

As with any joint injection, infection is a rare but potentially serious complication.

Increasing redness, swelling, severe pain or fever after an injection should be medically assessed.

Do You Still Need Physiotherapy After Arthrosamid?

Yes, physiotherapy can still be very important.

Reducing pain does not automatically restore:

• Muscle strength
• Knee movement
• Balance
• Walking tolerance
• Confidence with exercise

Physiotherapy can help improve these areas through:

• Quadriceps strengthening
• Hip strengthening
• Balance exercises
• Mobility work
• Walking and functional rehabilitation
• Gradual return to exercise

If the injection reduces pain, physiotherapy may help you take advantage of that improvement and build better long-term function.

Is Arthrosamid Right for Everyone?

No. Suitability depends on your:

• Severity of arthritis
• Medical history
• Previous treatments
• General health
• Previous surgery or injections
• Individual symptoms and goals

An appropriately qualified clinician should assess whether Arthrosamid is suitable for you.

Arthrosamid and Knee Physiotherapy at Southgate Physio

At Southgate Physio, we help people with knee osteoarthritis improve strength, mobility and confidence with movement.

If you are considering an Arthrosamid injection, physiotherapy can form an important part of your overall knee arthritis treatment – both before and after the procedure.

The best results usually come from treating the whole problem, not just the pain.

If knee arthritis is affecting your walking, stairs, exercise or everyday activities, contact Southgate Physio for a personalised knee assessment and rehabilitation programme.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice. Arthrosamid is an invasive treatment, and suitability should be assessed by an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.