How many PRP injections are needed for the knee?

The standard protocol is 1 to 3 injections at 3-6 week intervals. The doctor adjusts the number based on the severity of arthritis and the initial response.

The injection itself may cause mild discomfort. After the injection, moderate inflammatory flare-up (pain, swelling) is possible for 24 to 72 hours, a sign that the healing process has been activated.

What is the difference between PRP and hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber (viscosupplementation). PRP aims to repair cartilage and reduce inflammation durably. PRP has shown superior efficacy in younger patients with moderate osteoarthritis.

Is PRP covered by insurance?

In Quebec and Canada, PRP is not covered by RAMQ. However, it is reimbursed by some private insurance plans. Check with your insurer to verify your coverage.

Can I return to sports after a PRP injection?

Relative rest for 24 to 48 hours is recommended. Return to sports is progressive over 2 to 4 weeks, with appropriate rehabilitation exercises supervised by a physiotherapist.

PRP for Knee Osteoarthritis: An Effective Regenerative Treatment

PRP: A Revolution in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis) affects millions of people and is the leading cause of consultation for joint pain. Until recently, therapeutic options were limited to painkillers, hyaluronic acid injections, and prosthetic surgery. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has opened a new path: regenerative medicine.

How Does PRP Work?

PRP is a concentrate of growth factors obtained from the patient's own blood. A simple blood draw is centrifuged to separate red blood cells from platelet-enriched plasma. This concentrate, containing growth factors such as PDGF, TGF-β, and VEGF, is then injected into the knee joint under ultrasound guidance.

These growth factors act by:

Stimulating repair of damaged cartilage tissue
Reducing intra-articular inflammation
Promoting collagen and extracellular matrix production
Slowing the progression of cartilage degradation

What Results Can Be Expected?

Numerous clinical studies demonstrate the efficacy of PRP in mild to moderate gonarthrosis (Kellgren-Lawrence stages 1 to 3). Patients report:

Significant pain reduction (VAS score reduced by 40 to 60%)
Functional improvement (walking, stair climbing, knee flexion)
Decreased use of painkillers
A prolonged effect lasting 12 to 24 months depending on the protocol

The Treatment Protocol

A typical treatment includes 1 to 3 injections spaced 3 to 6 weeks apart. The injection is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise delivery into the joint. Each session takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The PRP must be prepared fresh on the same day from the patient's blood sample.

PRP represents a significant advance for patients wishing to delay or avoid joint replacement surgery, particularly for those with moderate osteoarthritis who remain active.