PRP for Osteoarthritis

What osteoarthritis feels like day to day

Osteoarthritis tends to arrive gradually — stiffness in the morning that eases as you move, aching after activity, a joint that feels less reliable than it used to. Over time it can start shaping decisions you didn't used to think about: which stairs to take, whether to join the walk, how to sit comfortably. It's a common and very real source of chronic pain, not something to just live with quietly.

Is PRP right for osteoarthritis like yours?

PRP tends to be considered for mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis, particularly for patients looking to manage pain and delay more invasive interventions. It's generally not positioned as a cure — osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition, and PRP is one tool among several for managing it, not a way to reverse it. Whether it's a reasonable option for your joint depends on the stage of arthritis and your overall health, which we'll assess at your consultation.

What to expect

A typical visit includes a consultation and exam (often alongside imaging you may already have), a routine blood draw, a short preparation period, and an injection into the affected joint. Many patients report gradual improvement in pain and stiffness over the following weeks. Because osteoarthritis is an ongoing condition, some patients return periodically rather than expecting one-and-done treatment.

Recovery

Expect some soreness around the injection site for a day or two. We typically recommend limiting high-impact activity for 24–48 hours, avoiding anti-inflammatory medication unless we advise otherwise, and easing back into your normal routine. We'll talk about ongoing joint care — activity, strength work, weight management where relevant — as part of your overall plan, not just the injection itself.

Frequently asked questions

Will PRP reverse my arthritis? No — osteoarthritis involves changes to joint cartilage that current PRP research does not show reliably reversing. PRP is generally used to help manage pain and function, not to undo the underlying joint changes. We'll be direct with you about what it can and can't do.

How does this compare to a knee or hip replacement? PRP is not a substitute for joint replacement when replacement is genuinely indicated. For earlier-stage arthritis, some patients use PRP to manage symptoms and delay surgery; for advanced arthritis, replacement may be the more appropriate conversation. We'll help you understand which applies to you.

Will I need repeat treatments? Often, yes — because osteoarthritis is an ongoing condition, some patients return for periodic treatment as part of long-term management, rather than a single course of care.