What Happens to the Knee After Meniscectomy?

The meniscus acts as a shock absorber, helping distribute pressure across the knee whenever you walk or move. Removing part or all of the meniscus during meniscectomy disrupts this natural balance, placing added stress on the joint surfaces. Over time, this accelerates cartilage wear.

Symptoms that develop include pain during weight-bearing activities, stiffness (especially in the morning or after resting), and difficulty moving the knee fully. These are common: studies estimate that up to half of all meniscectomy patients report significant discomfort years after surgery. Early-onset osteoarthritis is a well-known complication following loss of meniscus support, so finding ways to manage symptoms and protect the joint is essential.

How Does Arthrosamid Work? What Does the Evidence Say?

Arthrosamid is an injectable gel made from a modified, long-lasting form of hyaluronic acid—a natural component of healthy joint fluid. While traditional hyaluronic acid injections mainly act as lubricants, Arthrosamid also stimulates the body to produce more of its own joint-protective fluid. It has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Several clinical studies have shown promising results. For example, in one randomized trial, patients treated with Arthrosamid reported significantly less pain (measured by the WOMAC index, a standard tool for arthritis symptoms ), with results lasting for at least six months. Safety was also good—most side effects were mild, such as temporary discomfort at the injection site. Another recent study found that improvement in knee OA symptoms could last up to 24 months in eligible patients, particularly those who were older, non-diabetic, and had early-stage osteoarthritis .

Current research also highlights that while various treatments exist, long-term solutions for post- meniscectomy knee pain are still needed. Conventional options such as pain relievers, physical therapy , and sometimes more surgery can provide varying relief, but Arthrosamid is showing promise as a longer-lasting option.

Who Is Best Suited for Arthrosamid Treatment?

Arthrosamid is typically recommended for adults who have undergone meniscectomy and have mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis (classified as Kellgren-Lawrence grade I or II on X-ray). It’s important that patients don’t have active joint infections or other serious health issues that could complicate treatment.

Some people may be allergic to hyaluronic acid products and should avoid this treatment. Most patients tolerate Arthrosamid well, experiencing only minor and short-lived reactions such as mild redness or discomfort at the injection site. Recent studies suggest that the best candidates are older, non-diabetic patients with less severe osteoarthritis .

Before starting, it’s important to have an open discussion with your doctor about the potential benefits and any risks, so you can decide together if this treatment is right for you.

Combining Arthrosamid with Rehabilitation

Effective management of post- meniscectomy OA relies on a combination of treatments. Arthrosamid injections are usually given once the initial post-surgery inflammation has settled, and patients can begin physical therapy . Coordination among orthopedic surgeons , physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists ensures that Arthrosamid is integrated smoothly into the overall care plan.

Rehabilitation focuses on gradually increasing strength and mobility, often through targeted exercises to improve flexibility and retrain movement patterns. By decreasing pain and improving comfort, Arthrosamid can help patients participate more fully in rehab, which in turn boosts overall knee function .

The Role of Specialist Care

Managing post- meniscectomy osteoarthritis often benefits from a comprehensive approach led by experienced specialists. Multidisciplinary clinics bring together orthopedic surgeons , radiologists, physiotherapists, and other health professionals to personalize treatment plans. Experts in musculoskeletal care , like Professor Paul Lee, emphasize the value of tailored, team-based strategies to help patients get the most out of treatments like Arthrosamid .

Every patient’s situation is unique, so realistic expectations are key. While pain and stiffness after meniscus removal are common, new therapies and coordinated care can offer real improvements in comfort and quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Arthrosamid represents an innovative step forward in managing pain and stiffness in people with post- meniscectomy osteoarthritis . Its ability to support the knee ’s natural protective mechanisms, along with solid safety data, makes it a valuable part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Choosing the right candidates and ensuring collaborative, ongoing care are essential for the best results.

If you have questions about knee pain or would like to find out if Arthrosamid might be right for you, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

References

Gao, H. C. K., Akhtar, M., Creedon, C., Nar, Ö. O., Verma, T., & Lee, P. Y. F. (2025). Polyacrylamide hydrogel injections in knee osteoarthritis: A PROMs-based 24 month cohort study. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcot.2025.103136

Drobnič, M., Erçin, E., Gamelas, J., Papacostas, E., Słynarski, K., Zdanowicz, U., Spalding, T., & Verdonk, P. (2019). Treatment options for the symptomatic post-meniscectomy knee. Knee Surgery Sports Traumatology Arthroscopy, 27(6), 1817–1824. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-019-05424-3