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Does knee pain make every step feel like a struggle? You’re not alone. Over 14 million people with knee osteoarthritis live with daily pain and stiffness.
Maybe you’ve tried medications or physical therapy, but the relief didn’t last. If you’re still searching for answers, there is hope.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a safe, non-surgical treatment. They may help reduce pain and swelling and help you move more comfortably. In some cases, they may delay or even prevent the need for knee replacement surgery.
In this article, I’ll explain how PRP injections work and why they might be a good option for you.
Key Takeaways
- PRP is a non-surgical option that uses your blood to support joint healing and reduce knee pain.
- It works best in the early to moderate stages of osteoarthritis, when there’s still some healthy joint tissue remaining.
- Many people feel lasting relief, with less pain and better movement for up to 12 months.
- PRP works best when combined with physical therapy. Weight loss or bracing may also improve results.
Is PRP Effective for Knee Osteoarthritis?
Yes, people with knee osteoarthritis find relief with PRP. It supports your body’s natural healing by not just masking pain, but improving joint health.
That’s why it tends to work best in the early to moderate stages of osteoarthritis.
Research also supports this treatment. A large meta-analysis found that PRP injections reduce knee pain and improve joint function. After the treatment, people started to feel better within a month. The results improved over time, with many reporting continued relief at 3, 6, and even 12 months after treatment.
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How PRP Compares to Other Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee arthritis is often treated with physical therapy, medications, or injections, but they may offer temporary relief.
PRP is a newer regenerative technique that may slow the progression of joint damage. It may also be helpful if other treatments have stopped working or no longer provide lasting relief.
Here’s how PRP compares to common treatments and when it might be the right choice for you.
PRP vs. Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections may offer quick relief by reducing inflammation and swelling in the knee. But the relief doesn’t last beyond a few weeks or months. Over time, repeated use may even weaken the cartilage, which can be a concern for long-term joint health.
PRP, on the other hand, takes a few weeks to start working. But it may offer longer-lasting relief by supporting the body’s natural healing process. Unlike cortisone, PRP doesn’t have the same risk of cartilage damage and is generally a safe option with fewer side effects.
PRP vs. Hyaluronic Acid (Gel Injections)
Hyaluronic acid (HA), also known as “gel shots,” acts like a lubricant inside the joint. It helps reduce friction, making movement smoother and less painful. HA is often used in the early stages of arthritis when symptoms are still mild.
PRP works in a different way. It reduces inflammation and supports the joint to heal from within. Rather than just easing movement, it may improve joint function by targeting the root cause of pain.
PRP may provide better and longer-lasting relief than HA, especially after 6 months.
Here’s a comparison between the three treatment approaches:
| Treatment | What It’s Made From | How It Works | Relief Duration | Onset of Relief | Side Effects |
| PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) | Concentrated platelets from your own blood | Uses growth factors to reduce inflammation and support healing | 6 to 12 months (may be longer) | Gradual (a few weeks) | Mild soreness or swelling after injection |
| Corticosteroids | Steroid medication | Suppresses inflammation in the joint | A few weeks to a few months | Fast (within days) | Possible cartilage thinning with repeated use |
| Hyaluronic Acid (Gel) | Gel (synthetic or animal-based) | Lubricates the joint to improve movement and reduce friction | 3 to 6 months (varies) | Gradual (1–2 weeks) | Possible swelling at the site |
How PRP Fits Into a Non-Surgical Care Plan
If you’re hoping to manage knee osteoarthritis without surgery, PRP can be a helpful part of a bigger care plan. It often works best when combined with other strategies like:
- Physical therapy
- Weight management
- Bracing
While PRP reduces joint inflammation, physical therapy strengthens the muscles around it. This makes movement easier and more stable.
Losing even a small amount of weight may reduce pressure on the knee, helping PRP work more effectively. A brace may offer extra support during daily activities, reducing strain and giving the joint space to heal.
Together, these treatments may:
- Slow the progression of arthritis
- Ease pain and stiffness
- Help you stay active and independent for longer
What to Expect with PRP Treatment
It’s a simple outpatient procedure that begins with a consultation. During the consultation, I’ll review your symptoms, medical history, and any imaging to make sure PRP is a good fit for you.
If we decide to move forward, the process starts with a quick blood draw. Your blood is then processed to concentrate the platelets, which I inject into the knee to help reduce pain and stiffness.
Relief isn’t instant, but most of my patients recover quickly and are back to their usual routine within a day or two.
I’ll guide you through every step, answer all your questions, and make sure you feel supported throughout the process.
How Many Injections Are Usually Needed?
Most of my patients need between one and three PRP injections to get the best results. These are usually spaced a few weeks apart, giving your body time to respond and heal.
The number of injections really depends on a few things such as:
- Your symptoms
- Overall knee health
- How well your body responds to the first treatment
Some people with mild arthritis may feel better after just one injection. For others with more advanced joint wear, a full series of treatments may be needed for lasting relief.
Side Effects and Downtime
After a PRP injection, you may notice the following symptoms for a day or two:
- Mild soreness
- Stiffness
- Swelling in the knee
Most of my patients are able to walk out of the clinic and return to normal daily activities the same day. However, I recommend avoiding high-impact exercise, kneeling, or heavy lifting for about a week.
To manage discomfort, ice packs may help. Over-the-counter pain relievers are generally fine. But avoid anti-inflammatory medications, as they may interfere with PRP’s healing process.
Since PRP uses your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or infection is extremely low. Overall, downtime is minimal, and you may recover quickly.
What Factors Influence PRP Success
PRP can be an effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis, but results vary. Here’s what makes a difference:
Platelet Concentration
For better results, platelet concentration matters. Research shows that around 10 billion platelets are needed to support real healing. The way PRP is processed also affects its strength. A well-prepared sample may offer much better outcomes.
Stage of Arthritis
PRP works best in the early to moderate stages of osteoarthritis. At this point, there’s still healthy tissue that can respond to growth factors and regenerate.
In advanced arthritis, where cartilage is severely damaged, PRP may provide only temporary or limited relief.
Other Factors
Age, health, and activity level affect results. Though many older adults still benefit from PRP, especially if arthritis is in mild stages.
Injection Technique
Ultrasound guidance may improve the accuracy and treatment success. This is why it’s important to receive PRP from a doctor trained in joint care and biologics.
Lifestyle and Post-Treatment Care
How you care for your knee after treatment impacts how well it works.
- Follow post-injection instructions
- Do the right physical therapy
- Maintain a healthy weight
These steps may help reduce stress on the joint and extend the benefits of PRP.
When Is PRP a Good Alternative to Surgery
You may be a good candidate if joint pain or stiffness is interfering with your daily life, and other treatments haven’t provided enough relief.
It may also be a better choice if you aren’t an ideal candidate for knee replacement surgery due to:
- Advanced age
- Ongoing health conditions
- A history of poor healing, infections, or anesthesia complications
- Personal preference to avoid surgery
For many patients, PRP offers a middle ground, more relief than basic care, without the risks or long recovery that come with surgery.
Why Choose Resilience Orthopedics in San Jose
At Resilience Orthopedics, you get personalized treatment focused on preserving joint health and keeping you active, without rushing to surgery.
Expertise in Conservative Knee Care
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, I specialize in treating both sports injuries and knee arthritis.
My goal is to help you move with less pain and avoid surgery for as long as possible. Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs, activity level, and goals.
One-on-One, Patient-First Approach
From your first visit through every step of care, you’ll work directly with me. I take time to explain your condition, answer your questions, and adjust your treatment based on how you’re doing.
You’ll never feel rushed, and you’ll never be passed off to someone else.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
When surgery becomes necessary, I use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques that often lead to less pain, quicker recovery, and a faster return to normal life.
I’m here to help you by creating a personalized treatment plan. Let’s build a plan that supports your movement, health, and quality of life.
Ready to Recover?
Take the first step in getting back to your normal self, and book an appointment with Dr. Mehta today.
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