PRP for Knee Osteoarthritis

Yes — knee osteoarthritis has the strongest evidence base of any PRP application. Multiple meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials show clinically significant pain reduction and improved function lasting 12 to 24 months from a single treatment course. PRP often outperforms hyaluronic acid (“gel”) injections in head-to-head studies, particularly for mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2–3).

They work differently. Cortisone is a steroid that suppresses inflammation and provides quick pain relief — but the relief is temporary (weeks to a few months) and repeated cortisone injections can actually thin cartilage over time. PRP stimulates the joint to heal: relief builds over 2–6 weeks and lasts much longer (often a year or more), and PRP doesn't damage cartilage. Many patients turn to PRP after cortisone has stopped lasting.

Hyaluronic acid is a synthetic lubricant — it adds slip to the joint but doesn't change the underlying disease. PRP is your own concentrated platelets, which release growth factors that actually improve the joint environment. Studies suggest PRP gives longer-lasting benefit than hyaluronic acid for most patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis.

Most patients experience meaningful relief for 12 to 24 months from a single treatment course (typically 1 to 3 injections spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart). Some patients return for a maintenance injection annually. Results vary based on the severity of osteoarthritis, your activity level, weight, and how aggressive a healing response your physician selects with the right PRP concentration.

For many patients, yes. PRP can meaningfully delay the timeline to knee replacement — sometimes by years — by reducing pain, improving function and slowing disease progression. It's most effective in mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis. In severe end-stage osteoarthritis where the joint space is essentially gone, PRP is less effective and surgery may be the better choice. Your physician will give you an honest assessment based on your imaging.

The injection itself is similar to a standard knee injection — most patients describe mild to moderate discomfort, and we use local anesthetic to minimize pain. Recovery depends on the PRP concentration. With our highest-concentration PRP, expect about 2 weeks of bracing to keep weight off the knee, with significant discomfort possible for the first 48 hours — braces and crutches are available for purchase at the clinic, and you'll need a ride home. With lower-concentration PRP, recovery is much easier — most patients return to desk work the same day, with mild soreness for 2–5 days. Your physician will recommend the right concentration at consultation.

PRP is a private-pay procedure not covered by OHIP. Cost varies based on the concentration selected and whether ultrasound guidance is used. Many extended-health benefit plans cover a portion under regenerative medicine, sports medicine or specialist injection benefits — we provide detailed receipts for insurance submission. Detailed pricing is reviewed at your consultation.

Yes — patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis can have both knees treated in a single visit. Some patients prefer to stage treatments (one knee, then the other a few weeks later) so that mobility isn't compromised on both sides simultaneously, especially if a high-concentration PRP with bracing is recommended. Your physician will plan this with you at consultation.

No. Oakville Pain Clinic accepts self-referrals — book directly through our online self-referral form or call 647-910-5359 and our team will contact you within 24 hours to schedule your consultation. We also accept referrals from family doctors, sports-medicine physicians, physiotherapists and orthopaedic surgeons.