Comparing Long-Term Comfort: Arthrosamid vs. Corticosteroid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a widespread, chronic condition that brings persistent pain and stiffness, often making everyday activities difficult. Finding relief that lasts is essential for helping people stay active and maintain their quality of life. In this post, we’ll compare two popular injection treatments— Arthrosamid (a polyacrylamide hydrogel ) and corticosteroids—to see how they stack up for sustained comfort. We’ll look at what sets Arthrosamid apart, how both treatments work inside the knee, their long-term impact, safety, and how they fit into a well-rounded care plan.

Arthrosamid: Long-Lasting Relief with a Simple Injection

Arthrosamid is a newer treatment option that uses a soft, gel-like polyacrylamide hydrogel to cushion the knee joint . Once injected, this gel forms a supportive pillow inside the joint, helping protect tissues and ease movement. What makes Arthrosamid unique is its long-lasting effect—many patients feel less pain and move more comfortably for up to two years after just a single injection. This lasting relief means people often don’t need repeated treatments, making it a convenient option for ongoing knee pain.

How Arthrosamid and Corticosteroids Work: Cushioning vs. Calming

Arthrosamid works by physically supporting the joint, which helps preserve the knee’s natural structure without causing tissue damage. This protective approach is often called “non-catabolic”—it doesn’t break down joint tissues. In contrast, corticosteroid injections , such as those containing triamcinolone, work by quickly reducing inflammation. While steroids often relieve pain within days, their effects tend to fade after a few months. Over time, repeated steroid use can also weaken joint tissues, and can sometimes cause temporary pain flares or other side effects. Research shows corticosteroid injections are helpful for short-term relief, typically lasting four to eight weeks, but provide less benefit beyond that period.

How Long Does Relief Last—and How Does It Affect Daily Life?

The longevity of pain relief is a key difference between these options. Arthrosamid ’s cushioning effect can last up to 24 months, giving patients more consistent comfort and making it easier to stay active, handle work, and enjoy daily routines. Patient feedback and outcome surveys (PROMs) suggest those receiving Arthrosamid generally have better pain control and improved daily function at the one-year mark compared with those given steroids. Research also highlights that, compared to steroids, Arthrosamid tends to offer steadier relief, helping people maintain mobility and independence.

Safety and Consistency: What to Expect

When choosing a treatment, safety matters. Studies have shown Arthrosamid is generally safe, with few long-term complications. Any discomfort after the injection is usually mild and brief. Corticosteroid injections , while widely used, can sometimes cause temporary side effects like pain flares or nausea right after the procedure. These disruptions may interfere with daily life and can limit how often steroids are used. Because knee osteoarthritis requires long-term management, the steady, reliable comfort that Arthrosamid provides can be an important advantage.

Building a Comprehensive Treatment Plan

Effectively managing knee osteoarthritis is about more than just one injection. The best approach is usually a personalized plan—developed together with your healthcare provider—that might combine injection treatments with physiotherapy, exercise, weight management, and other lifestyle adjustments. Clinics like MSK Doctors, led by specialists such as Professor Paul Lee, offer expert care that considers your unique needs and goals, helping you preserve knee health and stay active over the long run.

Conclusion

In summary, Arthrosamid offers long-lasting relief by gently supporting the knee joint , making it easier to stay comfortable and active without frequent repeat injections. While corticosteroid injections can ease inflammation and pain quickly, their benefits are typically shorter-lived and may be accompanied by more side effects. Choosing the best treatment depends on your individual needs and should be done in close partnership with your medical team. For tailored advice, always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

If you’d like to discuss your treatment options further, reach out to your orthopaedic consultant or healthcare team for personalized support.

References

Gao, H. C. K., Akhtar, M., Creedon, C., Nar, Ö. O., & Lee, P. Y. (2025). THE IMPACT OF PATIENT FACTORS ON THE MINIMAL CLINICALLY IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE OF ARTHROSAMID POLYACRYLAMIDE HYDROGEL INJECTION FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A COHORT STUDY. Journal of Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2025.02.648

Li, A., Wang, H., Yu, Z., Zhang, G., Feng, S., Liu, L., & Gao, Y. (2019). Platelet-rich plasma vs corticosteroids for elbow epicondylitis. Medicine, 98(51), e18358. https://doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000018358

Örücü Atar, M., Yaşar, E., Tezen, Ö., Bilgin, E., Yurtoğullari, Ş., Köroğlu, Ö., & Gürçay, E. (2022). Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection with Corticosteroid Injection for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Fiziksel Tıp Ve Rehabilitasyon Bilimleri Dergisi, 25(3), 299-306. https://doi.org/10.31609/jpmrs.2022-88198