Knee Osteoarthritis: Can Regenerative Medicine Reduce The Need for Surgery?

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common causes of joint pain and mobility loss. As the condition progresses, even simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods can become challenging.

While joint replacement surgery is often seen as the go-to solution, many patients are searching for options that focus on restoring function without the downtime, risks, and recovery associated with invasive procedures.

One treatment gaining attention is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, a regenerative, non-surgical approach that uses your body's own platelets to support joint health. But is it effective for knee osteoarthritis and is it right for you?

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee wears down over time. Without this cushioning, bones can rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased mobility.

Common symptoms of knee OA include:

• Stiffness in the morning or after periods of rest

• Swelling or warmth around the joint

• Pain with walking, climbing stairs, or standing

• A grinding or clicking sensation during movement

Traditional treatments such as physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, or joint replacement surgery can help, but they often focus on symptom relief rather than joint preservation.

This is where regenerative medicine comes in, offering a different approach.

How PRP Therapy Works for Knee Osteoarthritis

PRP therapy begins with a small blood draw from your arm. The sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speed to separate and concentrate the platelets. These platelets contain growth factors and other healing proteins that help regulate inflammation and signal tissue repair.

Once prepared, the PRP is injected into the knee joint using ultrasound or fluoroscopic image guidance for pinpoint accuracy. This ensures the platelets reach the precise area where they can be most effective.

Unlike pain medications, which only mask discomfort, PRP aims to improve the biological environment of the knee, supporting long-term joint health and potentially delaying or even avoiding the need for surgery.

PRP vs. Other Common Knee OA Treatments

PRP vs. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections, sometimes called "gel shots", provide lubrication to the knee joint. While HA can help with short-term symptom relief, studies show PRP often offers longer-lasting benefits in pain reduction and mobility particularly at the six- and twelve-month marks.

PRP vs. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation quickly but tend to wear off within a few months. PRP results may take a few weeks to appear, but improvements can last much longer and may better support joint preservation over time.

PRP + HA Combination

Some research suggests combining PRP with HA may provide an added boost pairing PRP's regenerative effects with HA's cushioning benefits. Early results are promising, though more studies are needed for long-term conclusions.

Safety Profile of PRP Injections

PRP is generally considered safe because it's derived from your own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Possible mild side effects include:

• Temporary swelling or soreness at the injection site

• Mild stiffness for 24–48 hours

Serious complications are rare when PRP is performed by trained providers using sterile technique and image-guided precision.

If you have a history of blood disorders, clotting issues, or certain medical conditions, a full evaluation will help determine if PRP is appropriate for you.

Benefits of PRP Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis

PRP may offer:

• Minimally invasive treatment without general anesthesia

• Use of your own biologic material for natural compatibility

• Image-guided accuracy for better outcomes

• Potential delay or reduction in the need for surgery

• Support for long-term joint function

Many patients choose PRP because it allows them to stay active while preserving joint structures.

The IOW Difference in PRP Care

At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington, Dr. Otoño Silva and Dr. Balaji Sridhar bring advanced training in regenerative and interventional orthopedics to every case.

Our PRP process includes:

• Detailed consultation and joint evaluation

• Customized PRP concentration based on your biology

• Ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance for exact placement

• Post-procedure guidance to maximize results

We don't use one-size-fits-all plans. Everything is customized to fit your goals, lifestyle, and joint health.

Considerations and Limitations

Lack of Standardization

PRP preparation methods vary widely between clinics. Factors like platelet concentration, white blood cell levels, and injection technique all affect results.

At IOW, our protocols are informed by peer-reviewed regenerative medicine research and tailored for each patient.

Not All Patients Are The Same

Age, severity of OA, and lifestyle can influence how well PRP works. Some patients see significant improvement, while others may require additional or alternative treatments.

Ongoing Research

Short- and mid-term results for PRP are strong, but long-term data is still being collected.

Why PRP Instead of Knee Surgery?

Surgery may be necessary for advanced OA, but for mild to moderate cases, PRP offers an opportunity to:

• Reduce pain and swelling

• Improve mobility and strength

• Preserve the knee joint for as long as possible

• Avoid the extended downtime and risks associated with surgery

When paired with targeted exercise and lifestyle strategies, PRP can be part of a sustainable knee health plan.

For more on joint preservation strategies, visit Orthobiologics vs. Surgery.

Final Thoughts

Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a promising option for people with knee osteoarthritis who want to avoid or delay surgery. By using your body's own healing components and delivering them with precision, PRP can support better joint health and long-term mobility.

If you're curious whether PRP is right for your knee OA, the team at Interventional Orthopedics of Washington is here to help you make an informed choice.

Schedule a consultation or book a discovery call to learn more about your options.