Bespoke Injections

Bigger isn’t always better. I have recently started getting an increasing number of enquiries from patients. These have either been through the website or emails (found on Bupa provider online).

Some of these have asked for certain types of injections, Arthrosamid, seems to be a popular one. Patints have either heard about it or have a friend that has had the injection. Its beholden on us as doctors to not just do what is asked of us, but to manage the patients request.

In one particular case, LD, a 67 yo female wanted an Arthrosamid injection for her arthritic knee. She was going on a cruise in just over a weeks time so wanted a relatively pain-free knee. As good as Arthrosamid is, it doesn’t usually work that quickly and infact, the first week or so can be uncomfortable for the patient before the "magic" starts. 

There are many injection therapy options out there which all have a place in the management of the “painful joint.” Some may not be appropriate.

For LD, we decided on a combination of a low dose steroid and Hyaluronic acid. This provided a faster acting solution to meet the patients expectations. It was also about ¼ of the price of Arthrosamid. However, this may not last as long as Arthrosamid, which has effectiveness data stretching 5 years and counting!!

Shared decision making was something I was introduced to a few years ago in the NHS, and I wholeheartedly embrace this in what I do.

PS I am not always this grumpy. I blame ChatGPT for the cartoon pic