PRP vs Steroid & Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis
Comparing Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis: PRP vs. Steroids vs. Hyaluronic Acid
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) can be painful and limiting—but fortunately, non-surgical injection options provide relief. Below is a clear comparison of the most common treatments: corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid (HA), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), highlighting recent evidence that supports PRP’s advantages.
Treatment Options
Corticosteroid injections (Steroids)
These injections act quickly by suppressing inflammation and offering rapid pain relief. However, benefits are typically short-lived—lasting only a few weeks to a few months—and repeated use may carry risks like cartilage damage or other side effects.Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections
HA is a natural joint lubricant. While approved for treating knee OA, its effectiveness varies: some patients report relief lasting months, others see little benefit. Evidence supporting HA is mixed, with some studies showing little to no improvement over placebo.Platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) injections
PRP is derived from your own blood and rich in growth factors that may promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. Preparation varies, but the goal is to concentrate platelets to support natural repair processes.
What Recent Research Shows
A recent 2025 meta-analysis concluded that PRP is more effective than HA for knee OA, demonstrating better scores on pain (VAS), function (WOMAC), and other evaluation measures.
Additional studies reinforce this:
Systematic reviews consistently find PRP leads to greater pain relief and functional improvement than HA, both short- and long-term.
A 2024 review highlighted that PRP reduced pain more significantly than both HA and steroids, with the most pronounced results occurring around 6 months post-treatment.
According to Mayo Clinic data, steroids may provide faster initial relief (within 4–6 weeks), but by 3–6 months, PRP tends to outperform steroids and can deliver benefits lasting 6–12 months or more.
A mid‑2025 clinical overview noted that by one year post-injection, patients treated with PRP consistently reported less pain and better function compared to those treated with steroids; while steroids act quickly, they don’t offer lasting improvement like PRP does.
Treatment
Steroids
HA (Gel)
PRP
Speed of Relief
Fast (weeks)
Moderate
Delayed
Duration
Short-term
Variable (~months)
Longer (6-12+ months)
Mechanism
Anti-inflammatory
Lubrication
Healing/repair
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for longer-lasting improvements in pain and function, particularly beyond the short-term window, PRP appears to offer the best evidence for effectiveness compared to both steroid and HA injections.
That said, response to treatment can vary. If quick relief is the main priority, steroids might offer a faster—though brief—benefit. Always consult your healthcare provider to tailor treatment decisions to your specific condition and goals.
© Copyright 2025 | PRECISION SPORTS & WELLNESS
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment.
Experimental and Non-FDA Approved Treatments
Certain treatments and therapies offered by Precision Sports & Wellness may be considered experimental or investigational. Some of these treatments may not be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all indications, and their efficacy and safety may not be fully established. While we strive to provide evidence-based care, additional research may be needed to confirm the effectiveness of certain procedures. Patients are encouraged to discuss all available options, risks, and benefits with their healthcare provider before proceeding with any treatment.
No Doctor-Patient Relationship
The use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship between you and Precision Sports & Wellness. Contacting us via this website or any communication channels does not create a formal medical relationship. A consultation with our medical team is required before any medical decisions or treatments are provided.
No Guarantees or Warranties
Precision Sports & Wellness makes no guarantees regarding the outcomes of any treatment or service. Individual results may vary based on various factors, including medical history, adherence to treatment plans, and individual response to therapy. Testimonials or patient experiences shared on this site do not guarantee similar results for all patients.
Liability Limitation
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Precision Sports & Wellness disclaims all liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages arising from the use of this website, reliance on its content, or participation in any treatment or service offered.
External Links
This website may contain links to third-party websites for informational purposes. Precision Sports & Wellness does not endorse, control, or take responsibility for the content, claims, or policies of external sites.
Changes to Disclaimer
We reserve the right to modify or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. Continued use of this website constitutes acceptance of any changes made.
If you have any questions regarding this disclaimer or the services provided, please contact us at 610-429-7729.