Arthritis can be a frustrating and painful condition, often interfering with day-to-day movement and quality of life. While medications, cortisone injections, and even surgery are traditional options, many patients are now turning to regenerative medicine in Australia—particularly platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy—to help manage arthritis symptoms. But how does PRP work for arthritis, and what can patients expect?
This article explores the role of PRP for osteoarthritis and joint degeneration, including how it’s used, what the evidence says, and whether it could be a suitable treatment for you.
Understanding Arthritis and Joint Degeneration
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage—the smooth tissue that cushions joints. As cartilage wears away, bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced range of motion. The condition often affects the knees, hips, shoulders, and hands.
While there is no cure for arthritis, treatments aim to manage symptoms, improve mobility, and slow progression. That’s where PRP therapy comes in.
How PRP Works for Arthritis
PRP therapy uses your own blood to promote healing within the joint. After drawing a small blood sample, platelets are concentrated using a centrifuge and then injected into the arthritic joint under ultrasound guidance. These platelets contain growth factors that help modulate inflammation, encourage repair in soft tissues, and potentially slow the degenerative process.
By delivering a boost of natural healing factors directly into the joint, PRP may reduce pain, improve function, and delay the need for surgery in some cases.
Conditions Treated with PRP for Arthritis
PRP for joints can be used in various stages of arthritis and is commonly applied to:
- Knees: knee arthritis PRP is among the most researched and frequently used applications
- Hips: hip pain and early degenerative changes may respond to PRP treatment
- Shoulders: particularly helpful for combined issues such as PRP for shoulder pain and rotator cuff degeneration
- Small joints: such as fingers, wrists, and ankles
Patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis tend to respond best. Those with advanced bone-on-bone arthritis may see limited benefit, but PRP can still play a role in pain management.
What the Research Says
Recent PRP research studies have shown promising results for managing osteoarthritis symptoms, particularly in the knee. Several clinical trials suggest that PRP may offer better pain relief and functional improvement than cortisone injections or hyaluronic acid in certain patient groups.
It’s important to note that while PRP therapy is not a cure, it may help reduce inflammation and improve joint function over time. Patients should not expect instant results, as the regenerative process occurs gradually.
What to Expect During and After PRP Treatment
- Procedure Time: Around 45–60 minutes from blood draw to injection
- Discomfort: Mild post-injection soreness may occur for a few days
- Activity Restrictions: Light activity is encouraged; avoid high-impact exercise for the first week
- Follow-Up: One to three injections may be recommended, depending on the condition
To explore the full process, visit our guide on PRP injection step-by-step.
