What question did this study set out to answer?

To evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in reducing pain and improving function in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis (OA).

May 27, 2026

Platelet-rich plasma therapy in primary osteoarthritis knee: A prospective observational study

Key Points

To evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in reducing pain and improving function in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis (OA).
Prospective observational study conducted from March 2022 to December 2023.
Included 50 patients aged over 35 years with Kellgren–Lawrence Grades 2–4 primary knee OA.
PRP prepared via double-spin technique, a single intra-articular injection given, and outcomes assessed using VAS and WOMAC at multiple time points.
In Grade 2 OA, WOMAC scores improved from 71.80 to 33.30 and VAS from 7.5 to 2.5 at 6 months (P < 0.001).
For Grade 3 OA, WOMAC scores reduced from 73.78 to 34.52 and VAS from 7.8 to 2.8 at 6 months (P < 0.001).
No significant changes were observed in Grade 4 OA patients; no adverse effects were reported.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim and Objective: To assess the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in reducing pain and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) knee. Introduction: Knee OA is a common degenerative condition causing progressive cartilage loss, pain, and functional limitation. Conventional treatments often offer short-term relief, prompting interest in biological therapies. PRP, containing concentrated platelets and growth factors, has shown potential in promoting tissue healing. This study evaluates the effectiveness of PRP in reducing pain and improving function in primary knee OA. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from March 2022 to December 2023. Fifty patients above 35 years with Kellgren–Lawrence Grades 2–4 primary knee OA were included. PRP was prepared using a double-spin technique from 50 mL of autologous blood, yielding 8 mL of high-quality PRP. A single intra-articular injection was administered under aseptic precautions. Pain and function were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Statistical comparisons were made using repeated-measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc testing ( P < 0.05). Results: The mean age of participants was 55.82 ± 10.31 years (24 males, 26 females). Significant improvements were observed in Grades 2 and 3. In Grade 2, WOMAC scores decreased from 71.80 to 33.30 and VAS from 7.5 to 2.5 at 6 months. Grade 3 patients showed similar reductions (WOMAC 73.78–34.52; VAS 7.8–2.8). All improvements in these groups were statistically significant ( P < 0.001). Grade 4 patients ( n = 3) demonstrated no significant changes at any interval. No adverse effects were reported. Discussion: PRP therapy was highly effective in early and moderate OA, producing consistent improvements in pain and function. Limited response in Grade 4 suggests decreased regenerative capacity in advanced disease. Conclusion: A single PRP injection is a safe and effective nonsurgical option for mild-to-moderate knee OA. Its benefits are minimal in advanced OA, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Further randomized studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.

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