PRP Therapy for Osteoarthritis: What to Expect

More than 32.5 million Americans have osteoarthritis (OA), a chronic disease that damages the cartilage. OA causes joint pain and stiffness, affecting mobility and quality of life. 

At Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC, in Sarasota, Florida, our team of interventional pain management specialists takes a conservative, minimally invasive approach to treating OA. One treatment we commonly prescribe is platelet-rich plasma therapy. 

Keep reading to learn all about PRP.

What is platelet-rich plasma therapy?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP, is a minimally invasive treatment that injects a concentrated solution of platelets into one (or more) arthritic joints. 

Platelets are tiny cell fragments in the blood that assist with clotting. However, they also have healing properties that reduce inflammation and ease pain. This unique ability makes them an effective option for treating common symptoms of osteoarthritis.

How platelet-rich plasma therapy works

PRP therapy is a quick, outpatient regenerative medicine procedure that typically takes an hour or less.

When you arrive for your appointment, we collect a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm and place it into a machine called a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins around rapidly, separating the platelets from the rest of your blood.

After this process is finished, we transfer the platelet-rich solution (PRP) into a syringe. Then, we use ultrasound-guided imaging to inject the PRP into specific joints damaged by osteoarthritis. 

Although everyone’s needs vary, PRP treatment can effectively treat various joints, including the following:

• Knees
• Hips
• Shoulders
• Elbows
• Wrists
• Ankles

The number of injections you receive will depend on the severity and location of your osteoarthritis. Some people only need 1-2 injections, while others need 6-7. Regardless, we apply a topical anesthetic to your skin beforehand to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience.

What to expect after PRP treatment for osteoarthritis

After your PRP treatment, you can return to work and other routine activities. Once the topical anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience mild redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site(s). You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol®) if these side effects are uncomfortable, but avoid ibuprofen since it increases the risk of bleeding. 

While some people notice significant pain relief after a single PRP treatment, we typically recommend a series of at least three PRP sessions, spaced about a week apart. This is because PRP therapy is cumulative, meaning you’ll see better results over time.

Don’t let OA-related joint pain affect your quality of life

Joint pain is a common side-effect of osteoarthritis, but PRP therapy may provide significant relief.

After a physical exam, lab testing, and discussing your symptoms, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. PRP is safe and effective and presents few risks. It also provides a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. 

Schedule a PRP consultation today through online booking or by calling Sunshine Spine and Pain Specialists, PLLC.