If you have knee osteoarthritis and want to stay active without — or before — surgery, Arthrosamid is one of the newer options available in London. It is a single hydrogel injection, and it works differently from the steroid and gel injections most people try first. This guide explains what it is, how it compares to the alternatives (including a knee replacement), who it suits, and whether it is worth the cost.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr James Thing (MBBS, BSc, MRCGP, FFSEM), Consultant in Sport & Exercise Medicine.
Arthrosamid is a non-surgical injection for knee osteoarthritis. Unlike steroid or hyaluronic-acid injections, Arthrosamid is purported to permanently bind to the lining of the joint, forming a physical barrier to inflammation and thereby reducing pain. Most people need only a single injection, given under local anaesthetic and ultrasound guidance.
Steroid injections reduce inflammation quickly but temporarily; hyaluronic-acid (“gel”) injections lubricate the joint and tend to last longer. Arthrosamid is different again: a single injection designed to provide lasting relief. It is often considered when steroid or hyaluronic-acid injections no longer provide relief and the patient would prefer to avoid surgery. If you are earlier in that journey, you may first want to compare steroid vs gel knee injections.
Knee replacement surgery is a major consideration, often requiring a prolonged recovery period. In the right patient it can provide considerable relief and can be life-changing. Arthrosamid is not a substitute for surgery, but it can be considered as a non-surgical alternative for individuals with moderate to severe wear-and-tear change.
| Steroid | Gel (HA) | Arthrosamid | Knee replacement | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Anti-inflammatory injection | Lubricating injection | Single hydrogel injection | Major joint surgery |
| Surgery? | No | No | No | Yes |
| Typical recovery | Same/next day | Same/next day | Same/next day | Weeks to months |
| How long relief lasts | Weeks–months | ~6 months+ | 2–3 years+ | Many years |
| Cost (all-inclusive) | £525 | £625 | £2,995 | Surgical — not available at Joint Care London |
Arthrosamid is generally considered for people with knee osteoarthritis whose pain is not controlled by simpler measures and who want to avoid or delay surgery. It may not be right for everyone, and suitability depends on the state of your knee — which is why every treatment starts with a diagnostic ultrasound and consultation.
Arthrosamid is considered a safe intervention, with a similar risk profile to other ultrasound-guided injections such as steroid and hyaluronic acid — namely a roughly 1 in 10,000 risk of infection and bleeding. The risk of infection may be lower with Arthrosamid, as prophylactic oral antibiotics are given as part of the normal protocol before the injection. Your consultant will go through the risks and what to expect at your consultation.
At Joint Care London, Arthrosamid is £2,995 for one knee — inclusive of all costs, with a consultant-delivered, ultrasound-guided injection and no hidden extras. Prices elsewhere in London vary, and the scan or consultation is often billed separately. For the wider picture, see our complete guide to injection costs in London and our fee list.
The honest answer depends on the current status of your knee, your function and your goals. Our consultant doctors at Joint Care London offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation to discuss your options and whether Arthrosamid is suitable for you.
Arthrosamid is purported to work by binding to the lining of the joint and forming a physical barrier to inflammation, which reduces pain. Your consultant will talk you through the evidence and whether it is suitable for your knee.
A single injection is designed to provide lasting relief — typically in the region of 2–3 years or more. Your consultant will set expectations for your knee.
They are different things. Arthrosamid is not a substitute for a knee replacement, but for people with moderate to severe wear-and-tear change it can be a non-surgical alternative worth considering. Your consultant will advise what is right for your knee.
Arthrosamid is usually self-pay. Check with your insurer — either way we will give you clear, all-inclusive pricing up front.
Thinking about Arthrosamid? Book a consultation or call 0333 011 1885 — we will confirm on ultrasound whether it is right for your knee.
