Comparison of Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Early Knee Osteoarthritis in Tertiary Care Center in Chengalpattu District

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder, leading to pain and impaired function, especially in early stages. Intra-articular injections of corticosteroids (CS) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are common non-surgical treatments. This study compares the efficacy and safety of PRP versus CS in the management of early knee OA at a tertiary care center in Chengalpattu district.

Methods: A total of 60 patients aged 50-69 years with early-stage knee OA were randomly assigned to receive either intra-articular PRP (30 patients) or CS (30 patients). Pain, function, and range of motion (ROM) were evaluated at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 months using Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Modified WOMAC, and ROM measurements. Adverse effects were recorded.

Results: Both treatments provided significant improvement in pain and function over time. However, PRP showed superior long-term results compared to CS, with more sustained pain reduction and functional improvement at 4 and 6 months (p<0.05). The CS group showed a plateau in improvement after 4 months. Adverse reactions were minimal and comparable in both groups.

Conclusion: PRP is more effective than corticosteroids for long-term management of early knee OA, offering sustained symptom relief without significant side effects.