Did you know?

The label “disease-modifying” means that PRP doesn't just alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from OA but can potentially alter the course of the disease itself. For patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis seen on X-rays, undergoing PRP treatment offers a remarkable opportunity to slow or halt the progression of the condition.

Traditionally, OA has been considered a progressive disease, with cartilage wear and tear worsening over time. However, new evidence supports that PRP can offer long-term benefits. If a patient undergoes PRP treatment and has their X-rays repeated five years later, there's a high likelihood that their osteoarthritis will have remained stable, rather than advancing as it often does in those who did not receive PRP.

Cartilage Regeneration After PRP Therapy

Perhaps even more exciting is the recent documentation of measurable cartilage growth in patients treated with PRP for knee osteoarthritis. A study published earlier this year highlighted PRP's ability to regenerate cartilage—a feat that traditional treatments like corticosteroids cannot achieve. Chris Centeno, MD, a leading specialist in regenerative medicine and medical director at Regenexx, recently summarized the state of PRP research with his 2024 PRP RCT infographic.¹ His infographic compiles data from 144 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), with 92% showing positive outcomes for PRP therapy. This level of evidence marks a dramatic shift in how the medical community views PRP.

Centeno’s findings also emphasize that PRP is a superior treatment option when compared to corticosteroids, a medication class that’s been used since the 1940s. Corticosteroids, while reducing inflammation, have long been known to cause damage to cartilage, tendons, and even bone cells when administered in large doses. In contrast, PRP not only spares these tissues from damage but can also promote their healing and regeneration. PRP's superiority over corticosteroids is evident, as it offers a safer and more sustainable solution for long-term joint health.

The Future of PRP in Osteoarthritis Treatment

At Geraci Spine & Sports Medicine, we are proud to offer PRP as a cutting-edge, evidence-backed treatment for osteoarthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. For patients with mild to moderate OA, PRP now provides hope not just for symptom relief but for halting the disease's progression and potentially regenerating lost cartilage. As insurance companies begin to recognize PRP’s value, more patients will be able to access this treatment without the limitations imposed by outdated views on its efficacy.

If you or a loved one suffers from osteoarthritis, PRP could be a game-changer. Contact Geraci Spine & Sports Medicine to learn more about how PRP can help manage and potentially modify the course of your OA for years to come.

Sources:

1. Centeno, C. (2024). “My 2024 PRP RCT Infographic 2.0.”