Understanding PRP for Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic joint pain, especially among older adults and athletes. As wear and tear gradually erode the cartilage in the knee, patients may experience swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility. Traditionally, treatment options have ranged from lifestyle modifications and physiotherapy to invasive surgery. However, recent developments in regenerative medicine are offering new alternatives. One of the most talked-about is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, particularly for knee arthritis.
PRP injections involve using a concentrated solution derived from the patient’s own blood. This solution contains platelets rich in growth factors that are believed to support the body’s natural healing processes. For individuals seeking non-surgical approaches to managing knee arthritis, PRP therapy has gained traction as a potentially valuable tool in the broader scope of orthopaedic PRP treatments.
What the Latest Research Says
Recent research studies are beginning to clarify where PRP fits into the treatment landscape for knee osteoarthritis. A 2024 systematic review published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research concluded that PRP therapy shows promising results in improving pain and function in patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, particularly when compared to placebo or saline injections.
Another comparative study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that PRP was more effective in reducing pain scores than hyaluronic acid over a 12-month period. However, the results also highlighted variability in patient outcomes, often dependent on the stage of arthritis, the PRP preparation method, and patient-specific factors such as age and overall health.
The Australian Orthopaedic Association has acknowledged that while PRP for knee arthritis is not yet a standardised treatment, it represents a growing area of interest that may complement traditional care pathways.
How PRP Injections Work for Knee Arthritis
The process begins with a standard blood draw, which is then spun in a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich portion of the plasma. This concentrated solution is then injected directly into the knee joint, typically under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement. The goal is to stimulate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
Patients typically receive one to three injections spaced several weeks apart, depending on individual response and clinical recommendation. It’s important to note that PRP for joints is not intended to regrow cartilage, but rather to modulate the joint environment in a way that can relieve symptoms and improve mobility.
What to Expect After a PRP Injection
The PRP injection recovery time is generally short. Most patients can resume daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, although high-impact exercise should be avoided for at least a week. Mild swelling or discomfort around the injection site is common but usually subsides within a few days.
Unlike cortisone injections, which suppress inflammation, PRP works by promoting a healing response. This means that improvements may take a few weeks to become noticeable, with peak results often observed two to three months post-injection.
For a detailed overview of the process, visit our step-by-step PRP guide.
Benefits and Limitations
One of the primary PRP treatment benefits for knee arthritis is that it uses the patient’s own biological material, minimising the risk of allergic reaction or infection. PRP injections are also minimally invasive and do not involve surgical downtime.
However, PRP is not a cure. Patients with severe arthritis or joint deformities may not experience the same benefits as those in the earlier stages of the disease. It’s also worth noting that outcomes can vary based on how the PRP is prepared and administered, which is why it’s important to choose an experienced PRP clinic.
