Does PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Help Knee Osteoarthritis?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that has been explored as a potential option for managing knee osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. While PRP therapy has shown promise in some studies for alleviating symptoms and improving function in knee OA, the evidence regarding its effectiveness is still evolving, and more research is needed to fully understand its benefits and optimal use.

Here's how PRP therapy for knee osteoarthritis typically works:

1. Preparation: PRP is prepared by drawing a small amount of the patient's blood and processing it to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. This is usually done using a centrifuge machine.

2. Injection: The concentrated PRP solution is then injected into the knee joint, typically under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement of the injection.

3. Mechanism of Action: PRP contains a high concentration of platelets, which are rich in growth factors and other bioactive molecules that may promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes. By injecting PRP into the knee joint, the goal is to potentially enhance cartilage repair, reduce pain, and improve joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

4. Post-Injection Care: Following PRP injection, patients may experience some soreness or discomfort at the injection site. It's essential to follow any post-injection instructions provided by the healthcare provider, which may include rest, activity modification, and pain management measures.

While some clinical studies and systematic reviews have reported positive outcomes with PRP therapy for knee osteoarthritis, the overall evidence is mixed, and more high-quality research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Factors such as patient selection, PRP preparation techniques, injection protocols, and outcome measures may influence the results of PRP therapy.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider, such as an orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine specialist, to determine if PRP therapy is a suitable treatment option for knee osteoarthritis based on individual circumstances, disease severity, treatment goals, and preferences. Additionally, PRP therapy is often considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other conservative measures such as exercise, physical therapy, weight management, medications, and possibly surgical interventions for advanced cases of knee osteoarthritis.

Author

Dr. Catherine Logan, MD, MBA Catherine Logan, MD, MBA, MSPT, is a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex knee and shoulder surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, Colorado. As a former physical therapist & trainer, Dr. Logan provides a distinct expertise in sports injury, prevention, and surgical management.