Knee Injections Explained: Steroid vs Hyaluronic Acid vs PRP vs Arthrosamid
A patient recently brought a list to her appointment.
She said:
“I’ve been told I might need an injection… but there seem to be so many different types.”
Once you understand the differences, it becomes much easier to decide what might suit you.
Why Are Injections Used?
Knee injections may be considered for:
Osteoarthritis
Tendon-related pain
Inflammation within the joint
Symptoms that haven’t improved with physiotherapy
Types of Knee Injections
Steroid
Reduces inflammation
Often works quickly
Typically used for flare-ups
Effect may be temporary
Hyaluronic Acid
Improves joint lubrication
Helps with movement and comfort
Often used in mild to moderate arthritis
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Uses your own blood
Contains growth factors involved in tissue repair
Often used in earlier-stage problems or active patients
Improvement is gradual
Arthrosamid
Hydrogel injection for knee osteoarthritis
Integrates with joint lining
Aims for longer-term symptom improvement
Often considered in more established arthritis
How Do You Choose the Right Injection?
As a general guide:
Short-term flare or inflammation → Steroid
Mild to moderate arthritis → Hyaluronic Acid or PRP
Active patients wanting longer-term improvement → PRP
More established arthritis, avoiding surgery → Arthrosamid
A Personalised Approach
The most appropriate option depends on:
the underlying cause
the stage of arthritis
your activity level
your goals
Two people with similar scans may need completely different approaches.
Next Step
If you’ve been advised to consider an injection but feel unsure which type is right, a consultation can help you make a clear, informed decision.