Injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are an innovative therapy for managing knee discomfort caused by osteoarthritis (OA). This strategy is currently under investigation by researchers.
Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted permission to distinct PRP preparations, this approval does not yet extend to the use of PRP in treating knee osteoarthritis. However, specific clinics may provide it “off-label.”
Recent policies from the American College of Rheumatology and the Arthritis Foundation strongly recommend avoiding this medication. This indicates that you need to be sure about the contents of your dosage.
However, if further study is conducted, it has the potential to become a viable therapy choice. Continue reading to discover more about platelet-rich plasma and additional treatment options for OA.
What Is Knee osteoarthritis (OA)?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint condition that occurs when articular cartilage in the knee wears away and becomes ineffective in cushioning the joint. The elderly are disproportionately affected. There are two distinct forms of knee osteoarthritis: primary and secondary.
Articular degeneration in which no etiological factor can be pinpointed is known as primary osteoarthritis. When aberrant forces are concentrated across a joint, like in the case of trauma, or when the articular cartilage is abnormal, as in rheumatoid arthritis, secondary osteoarthritis develops (RA).
Osteoarthritis can become painful and even lifelong. Clinical symptoms may vary depending on how severe they are for different people.
Every person develops at their own unique pace. Mild to moderate knee pain increases with movement, knee stiffness and swelling, knee discomfort after resting or sitting for lengthy periods, and progressive knee pain are all common clinical signs.
Surgical treatments are considered for patients with knee osteoarthritis who have tried non-invasive therapies without improvement.
Is PRP a Safe and Effective Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
Knee discomfort and trouble walking are frequent symptoms of osteoarthritis, a disorder that affects many people. Some people choose tried-and-true methods, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), for dealing with pain and inflammation. Some of these therapies may even be damaging to the joint. Therefore doctors would advise against using them.
The use of platelet-rich plasma as a treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee is becoming increasingly common (PRP). Injections of platelet-rich plasma (also known as PRP) as a therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee are a controversial subject.
But new research reveals PRP might be an effective and safe method of treating this issue. PRP was used in the trial to alleviate the pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. The findings demonstrated that PRP might enhance joint function and relieve associated discomfort.
Final Words
Experts do not currently advocate using PRP because it is still an experimental therapy. Consult your physician before deciding to get PRP injections.
Given the experimental nature of PRP injections, data on their safety and efficacy are scant. Your health insurance coverage also could not cover them.
Before beginning any experimental therapies, it’s essential to consult your doctor and ensure the provider is properly trained to provide them.
Contact Florida Sport’s and Family Health Center for any medical assistance.
