Arthrosamid treatment for knee osteoarthritis
Arthrosamid is a cutting-edge injectable hydrogel implant that delivers long-lasting, proven pain relief for knee Osteoarthritis.
Accepting American and Canadian patients
Arbutus Physiotherapy & Health Centre in Victoria, BC welcomes patients travelling from the United States for Arthrosamid® knee injections.
Travelling from the United States for Arthrosamid® treatment?
For patients travelling internationally or from outside Vancouver Island, we offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to discuss treatment suitability, answer questions, and help coordinate travel before committing to an in-person appointment. More information about travelling to Victoria, below.
What you can expect
Arthrosamid® is an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime. Most patients can return to light daily activities shortly after treatment.
- First 24–72 hours: Mild knee soreness, stiffness, or swelling may occur. Light walking is encouraged.
- First week: Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, hiking, and running.
- Treatment results: Improvement may develop gradually over several weeks, with individual results varying.
Travelling after your injection
Patients travelling from outside Victoria may be able to fly or take a ferry home the same day or the following day, provided they feel well and are medically cleared.
We recommend avoiding heavy luggage, allowing extra time at airports, and moving regularly during longer journeys.
An overnight stay in Victoria is not routinely necessary.
Patients should seek medical assessment if they develop increasing pain, redness, swelling, or fever after treatment.
Dr. Alex Del Duca
Naturopathic Physician
Dr. Del Duca has a specialized focus and passion for Pain Management and Sports Medicine-based interventional therapies.
Initial Arthrosamid screening visit
- Appointment duration: 30 minutes
- Appointment fee: $150
- No injection performed
- No referral required
- Patients can book online
During this appointment, Dr. will review the patient’s medical history, knee symptoms, X-rays, suitability for Arthrosamid, potential benefits, risks, and alternative treatment options.
Who is a candidate for Arthrosamid injection?
Arthrosamid® is a non-surgical treatment option for adults experiencing knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility associated with osteoarthritis.
Who may not be a suitable candidate?
You may be a suitable candidate if you:
- Are exploring non-surgical treatment options for knee osteoarthritis.
- Have been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grades 2–4).
- Experience ongoing knee pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility affecting daily activities.
- Have tried conservative treatments, such as physiotherapy, exercise, or medications, without adequate relief.
- Have experienced limited or temporary improvement from corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections.
- Arthrosamid® is not appropriate for everyone.
- A screening appointment is required to determine suitability. Certain conditions, including active infections, previous knee replacement, recent knee arthroscopy, or certain bleeding disorders, may prevent treatment.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Arthrosamid cost?
“The total cost is $4,400, including the injection appointment and Arthrosamid itself.”
What is the $150 screening appointment?
“It’s a 30-minute consultation with Dr. Del Duca to determine whether Arthrosamid is an appropriate treatment option for your knee.”
Do I lose the $150 if I decide to get Arthrosamid?
“No. If you proceed with Arthrosamid, your $150 screening fee is credited toward treatment. Your second appointment will cost $4,250, bringing the total to $4,400.”
What happens if I’m not a candidate?
“You would only pay the $150 consultation fee. Dr. Del Duca can discuss other treatment options that may be appropriate for you.”
What can you tell me about travelling to Victoria?
Forthcoming:
- Information about travelling through Victoria International Airport (YYJ).
- Ferry and other transportation options for American patients.
- The possibility of coordinating screening and treatment on the same day for patients travelling long distances, provided they meet the clinical requirements.
Can I have the screening and injection on the same day?
“Potentially, yes, especially if you’re travelling from out of town. However, that requires a different appointment arrangement. The initial assessment fee is $325 if the injection cannot proceed. If you’re suitable and the injection is performed, the total is $4,400 instead.”
Is Arthrosamid® injected using ultrasound guidance?
Yes. At our clinic, Arthrosamid® injections are performed using real-time ultrasound guidance. This allows Dr. Alex Del Duca, ND, RMSK, to visualize the knee joint and guide the needle into the appropriate location during the procedure.
Ultrasound guidance provides direct visualization of the relevant anatomy and needle placement, supporting accurate delivery of the injection without the use of radiation.
Can I book without a referral?
“Yes. Arthrosamid screening appointments are available to patients without a referral.”
Do I need X-rays?
“Yes. We ask that you have knee X-rays from within the last three years available for review.”
Can I use my extended health insurance?
“You can submit your receipts to your insurance provider, but coverage depends on your plan. We recommend checking with your insurer directly.”
