Knee Osteoarthritis: Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy a Viable Option?

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions of people worldwide and remains one of the most common causes of joint-related discomfort and loss of mobility. As the condition progresses, everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or exercising can become difficult. While surgery is often seen as the default solution, many patients are seeking options that focus on restoring function without the long recovery timelines.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention as a non-surgical treatment that may help improve joint function and reduce discomfort in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. But how effective is it?

Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the protective cartilage in the knee wears down over time. As this cushioning deteriorates, the joint becomes less stable and more sensitive to movement. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and discomfort with weight-bearing activities.

Traditional treatments such as physical therapy, NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, or joint replacement can offer relief but don’t always address the underlying changes happening within the joint. That’s where regenerative approaches like PRP come into focus.

How PRP Therapy Works to Restore Mobility

PRP therapy involves using a small sample of the patient’s own blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets. These platelets contain growth factors and signaling proteins that support tissue repair and joint function. The PRP is then injected into the knee joint under imaging guidance for accuracy.

Rather than simply masking symptoms, PRP is used to support the body’s natural processes aiming to improve joint quality and potentially delay the need for more invasive interventions.

Clinical Evidence: How PRP Compares to Other Knee OA Treatments

PRP vs. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

Studies consistently show that PRP offers longer-lasting improvement in joint function and mobility compared to HA injections. Several meta-analyses have reported that patients treated with PRP experience greater improvements in pain and movement at six and twelve months post-injection.

PRP vs. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids may provide faster symptom relief, but the effect often fades within a few months. PRP’s effects may take longer to become noticeable, but the benefits tend to last longer and may better support joint preservation over time.

PRP and HA Combined

Some studies suggest combining PRP with HA may offer added benefits. This approach brings together PRP’s regenerative support with HA’s lubricating properties. Early findings are encouraging, but more research is needed to confirm consistent results.

Safety Profile

PRP injections are generally well-tolerated. Mild side effects such as temporary swelling or soreness can occur but usually resolve on their own. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by experienced providers using sterile technique and guided injection methods.

The Benefits of PRP Therapy for Joint Function

• Minimally invasive

• Uses your body’s own biologic material

• Performed with imaging guidance for precision

• May delay or reduce the need for surgical intervention

• Supports long-term joint health and function
  

For active adults looking to stay mobile or individuals hoping to avoid or postpone knee surgery platelet-rich plasma therapy offers a promising alternative.

IOW’s Patient-Centered Approach

Our doctors at Interventional Orthopedics of Washington, Dr. Otoño Silva and Dr. Balaji Sridhar, bring advanced training in interventional orthopedics to every patient interaction. Each PRP treatment is tailored to the individual, taking into account joint integrity, activity level, and long-term functional goals.

Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance, our doctors ensure that PRP is delivered with pinpoint accuracy to the area of concern. This level of precision supports better outcomes, minimizes risk, and reflects our commitment to regenerative care that’s both science-backed and patient-focused.

Considerations and Limitations

Lack of Standardization

There’s currently no universal protocol for preparing and delivering PRP. Variables such as platelet concentration, white blood cell content, and timing of treatment may influence outcomes. At IOW, PRP formulations are tailored to the condition being treated and the individual’s biology.

Not All Patients Are the Same

While many individuals with knee osteoarthritis respond well to PRP, outcomes vary. Factors like age, severity of joint degeneration, and activity level all play a role in treatment response.

Long-Term Data

Research supports the benefits of PRP over the short and medium term. Long-term data continues to evolve as more studies track outcomes over several years.

Why Choose PRP Injections Over Surgery?

Surgery isn’t always the next step. For patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, PRP injections offer a non-surgical option that can support mobility, reduce stiffness, and help extend joint health without the recovery time associated with invasive procedures.

By focusing on preserving the knee’s existing structures rather than replacing them, PRP gives many patients a path forward especially when paired with lifestyle adjustments and strength training.

Final Thoughts

Platelet-rich plasma therapy offers a minimally invasive, evidence-informed option for individuals looking to manage knee osteoarthritis without surgery. When performed by experienced clinicians in the right setting, PRP can support better joint function and long-term movement.

If you're considering PRP for knee OA, schedule a consultation at Interventional Orthopedics of Washington. Our team will evaluate your condition, explain the process, and help you decide if this approach fits your goals.