Knee Osteoarthritis: How to Reduce Pain Without Surgery

 Article produced by Mr Gihan Jayasinghe, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

If knee pain is stopping you from enjoying your everyday life, you are not alone. For many people living with osteoarthritis, even simple activities such as walking or climbing stairs can become increasingly difficult.

While knee replacement surgery is often seen as the next step for ongoing knee pain, it may not be the right option for everyone. Some patients may wish to delay surgery, while others may be looking for less invasive treatments that can still provide effective relief.

Mr Gihan Jayasinghe, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at LycaHealth Orpington, advises on newer treatments such as Arthrosamid®, which are offering an alternative approach for suitable patients experiencing knee pain caused by Osteoarthritis.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain. It occurs when the protective cartilage within the joint gradually wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Symptoms can include:

• Pain while walking or exercising
• Stiffness in the joint, particularly in the morning
• Swelling around the knee joint
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Reduced ability to take part in hobbies or daily activities

For many people, symptoms can progressively impact their quality of life.

When Conservative Treatments Are No Longer Helping

Initial treatment for Osteoarthritis often includes Physiotherapy, exercise programmes, weight management, pain relief medication, or steroid or hyaluronic acid injections.
However, these approaches may not always provide long-term relief.

“Unlike other injections which are very temporary and can last for up to a few months, the data and evidence from Arthrosamid® research is showing that it can reduce knee pain and reduce the need for a knee replacement for up to five years,” explains Mr Jayasinghe.

For patients who are keen to avoid or delay surgery, this may offer another option to consider.

What is Arthrosamid®?

Arthrosamid® is the first injectable implant designed specifically to treat knee pain associated with Osteoarthritis.

Available in the UK since 2021, the treatment has already been used in more than 28,000 patients across Europe and the UK, with encouraging results in reducing pain and improving knee function.

Unlike temporary injections, Arthrosamid® is designed to integrate within the soft tissue lining of the knee joint, helping to cushion the joint and reducing inflammation to help provide longer-lasting pain relief.

How Does the Procedure Work?

The procedure itself is relatively straightforward and minimally invasive.

Arthrosamid® is delivered as an injection under ultrasound guidance in a sterile clinical setting such as the minor operations theatre. Antibiotics are administered beforehand as an additional precaution to reduce the risk of infection.

It is a safe procedure which does not involve surgery or a hospital stay.

Who Could Benefit from Arthrosamid®?

Arthrosamid® may be suitable for people whose knee pain is affecting their mobility, independence, or quality of life.

This may include those:

• Young patients who want to prolong the life of their knee, although Arthrosamid can be given to any age group.
• Those who are not fit enough for surgery due to other health conditions
• Patients that do not want to undertake knee replacement surgery
• Individuals where symptoms are no longer improving with other conservative treatments

“Arthrosamid® is a very safe procedure and injection to have, and therefore can be considered by almost anybody,” says Mr Jayasinghe. “In certain people it’s more likely to be successful, but please do book a consultation and we can have a chat and see whether Arthrosamid® is a suitable option for you.”

Seeking Advice for Knee Pain

Persistent knee pain should not simply be accepted as part of ageing. If symptoms are limiting your mobility or affecting your daily life, seeking specialist advice can help you better understand the treatment options available.

At LycaHealth Orpington, patients can access expert orthopaedic assessment and personalised treatment recommendations tailored to their needs.

To find out more about Arthrosamid® and whether it may be suitable for you:

Please get in touch with our friendly team