PRP for Knee Arthritis
For selected patients with early or mild-to-moderate knee arthritis, PRP is currently my preferred injection option when an injection is appropriate.
When PRP fits best
PRP may be most reasonable when knee arthritis is symptomatic but not yet at the stage where knee replacement is the clear next step. It may also be considered when a patient wants to reduce pain enough to participate more effectively in strengthening, walking, weight management, or physiotherapy.
Why PRP is often favoured
Recent reviews comparing injection options for knee osteoarthritis have found that PRP often performs better than corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid for pain and function over several months. The strength of the conclusion depends on the study, PRP preparation, arthritis severity, and outcome measured.
Limitations
PRP does not reliably regrow cartilage or reverse established arthritis. Advanced bone-on-bone arthritis is less likely to respond substantially. If symptoms are severe and function is very limited, surgery may become the more predictable treatment option.
Part of an arthritis plan
PRP should be considered alongside exercise, strengthening, weight management when appropriate, medication safety, bracing when useful, and realistic activity modification.
More injection information
For a broader explanation of injection choices, evidence limits, safety issues, and references, review the main Injection Therapy section.