Could PRP help my knee arthritis?
A plain-language guide to platelet-rich plasma therapy — what it is, how it works, and whether it might be right for you.
What is PRP?
It starts with your own blood
A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm — about the same as a routine lab test.
Spun in a centrifuge
The blood is placed in a machine that separates it into layers, concentrating the healing platelets.
Injected into your knee
The concentrated platelet solution is injected directly into the joint — usually with ultrasound guidance.
Triggers natural healing
Platelets release growth factors that reduce inflammation and support cartilage health.
Why might it help?
Knee arthritis causes inflammation that slowly breaks down cartilage. PRP introduces a high concentration of your body's own healing proteins directly where the damage is. Research suggests it can calm that inflammation and help protect remaining cartilage — especially in mild to moderate arthritis.
What does the research show?
Better than cortisone shots
Multiple studies show PRP outperforms steroid injections for pain and function at 6 and 12 months.
Better than gel injections
PRP has also outperformed hyaluronic acid (gel/viscosupplementation) in head-to-head trials.
Protects cartilage
Studies suggest PRP may slow cartilage breakdown — not just mask pain — especially at the right dose.
What to expect — step by step
Blood draw (10–15 min)
60-120 ml of your blood is collected from your arm, just like a standard blood test.
Processing (20–30 min)
Your blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets into a therapeutic solution.
Injection (5 min)
The PRP is injected into your knee joint, typically guided by ultrasound to ensure precise placement.
Rest and recovery (1–3 days)
Some mild soreness and swelling is normal right after. Most patients return to light activity within a day or two.
Gradual improvement (weeks 4–12)
PRP works gradually — most patients notice meaningful improvement 4 to 8 weeks after injection.
How long does it last?
Is PRP a good fit for me?
✓ Often a good fit
- Mild to moderate arthritis (grades 1–3)
- Pain despite physical therapy or anti-inflammatories
- Want to delay or avoid surgery
- Looking for a longer-lasting option than cortisone
- Prefer a treatment using your own biology
△ May be less effective
- Severe, bone-on-bone arthritis (grade 4)
- Active infection near the knee
- Bleeding disorders or blood-thinning medications
- Expecting immediate relief (PRP takes weeks)
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace a conversation with your doctor. Whether PRP is right for you depends on the severity of your arthritis, your overall health, and your treatment goals. Ask your provider if you're a candidate.