Are you struggling with knee pain that keeps you from enjoying your favourite activities? Or perhaps you have a loved one whose quality of life has been impacted by knee arthritis. If you’re exploring non-surgical solutions to relieve pain and improve mobility, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy might just be the treatment you’re looking for.
In my hip and knee clinic, I see many patients who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice on PRP therapy. One of the most common questions is: How many injections do I need for knee osteoarthritis (OA)? Let’s break it down together so you can make an informed decision and take the first step toward a pain-free life.
What Is PRP and How Does It Help Knee OA?
PRP therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses your body’s own platelets to promote healing and reduce inflammation in damaged tissues. For knee OA, PRP injections can:
- Relieve pain
- Improve joint function
- Potentially delay the progression of arthritis
Unlike painkillers or steroid injections, PRP aims to treat the underlying problem by enhancing your body’s natural healing mechanisms. It’s particularly effective for early to moderate stages of knee OA. However, I have used it successfully in end stage (bone-on-bone) arthritis, though the success rates are lower.
How Many PRP Injections Are Recommended?
The number of PRP injections required varies depending on the severity of your arthritis, your overall health, and the specific PRP protocol used. While the scientific literature is not unanimous on the exact number, the European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery & Arthroscopy (ESSKA) provides a helpful guideline:
“While the literature is not conclusive with regards to the optimal number of injections per PRP treatment cycle for knee OA, the majority of articles reports that protocols with >1 injection provide better clinical improvement, at least with early OA. The consensus group realizes that factors such as injection volume and platelet concentration may largely differ between available PRP products and may influence the effect of each injection. The consensus group recommends a range of 2-4 injections.”
My team and I have published an entire chapter on this very topic (see reference below). I’ve found that most patients see noticeable improvement after three injections spaced a 1 to 2 weeks apart. However, every patient is unique, and I tailor each treatment plan to meet individual needs.
Why Multiple Injections?
You might wonder why more than one injection is often recommended. Here’s why:
- Cumulative Effect: Multiple injections help build a sustained anti-inflammatory response and promote longer-term healing.
- Tailored Dosage: Factors like platelet concentration and injection volume can vary between sessions, ensuring that your joint receives the optimal treatment over time.
- Enhanced Results: Studies show that patients receiving more than one injection often report better pain relief and functional improvement compared to those who receive a single injection.
What Can You Expect During and After PRP Treatment?
PRP therapy is minimally invasive and performed as an outpatient procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and Assessment: I’ll evaluate your knee joint, review imaging if necessary, and discuss your symptoms to determine if PRP is suitable for you.
- Procedure: 15ml of your blood will be drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and injected directly into your knee joint.
- Recovery: Most patients experience mild soreness for a day or two. You’ll be encouraged to avoid strenuous activities but can return to your daily routine almost immediately.
Over the following weeks, you should notice gradual improvements in pain and mobility. Many patients report feeling the full benefit by the second or third injection.
Is PRP Right for You?
PRP therapy is particularly beneficial if:
- You have mild to moderate knee OA.
- You want to avoid or delay surgery.
- You’re looking for a treatment with minimal downtime and natural healing benefits.
It may not be suitable for severe OA or individuals with certain medical conditions. That’s why a thorough consultation is key to ensuring you’re a good candidate.
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living
Living with knee pain doesn’t have to be your reality. PRP therapy offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical way to regain your mobility and improve your quality of life. With over a decade of experience in orthopaedics and advanced treatments for hip and knee conditions, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I have had PRP injection myself, so can give scientific as well as personal and empathetic advice!
Don’t let knee pain hold you back. Book a consultation today by calling 02074594482 or email admin@londonhipknee.co.uk and discover how PRP therapy can help you take control of your joint health. Together, we can develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
REFERENCE
Advances in Medicine and Biology. Volume 174
Chapter: Orthobiologics to treat cartilage injuries and early osteoarthritis in the Hip & Knee
By: Chuk Anibueze, Wai Woon, Stamatios Tsamados, Saket Tibrewal, Parag K. Jaiswal
Publishers: Nova Publishers
