Symptoms we hear about
- Aching or stiffness that's worse in the morning or after sitting
- Swelling, grinding, or a 'catching' feeling
- Pain on stairs, hills, or kneeling
- Cortisone that worked at first and then stopped
What PRP can treat here
- Knee osteoarthritis (mild to moderate)
- Meniscus tears (degenerative)
- Patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee)
- Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain)
- Chronic knee pain after activity
The honest evidence
Knee osteoarthritis is where the evidence for PRP is strongest. Multiple 2024–2025 meta-analyses found PRP improves pain and function out to 12 months and beats hyaluronic-acid injections. One analysis found ~59% of patients with moderate (KL-3) arthritis did well when treated with three or more injections. In the interest of honesty: the AAOS still rates PRP only a 'limited' recommendation because preparation methods vary between clinics, which is exactly why an ultrasound-guided, surgeon-performed protocol matters.
Dr. Hock's rule: if the research doesn't support treating your specific problem, he'll tell you, and point you to what actually works.
You may be a good candidate if…
- ·Mild-to-moderate (KL grade I–III) arthritis
- ·Pain that limits hiking, work, or sport but isn't bone-on-bone
- ·You've tried PT, bracing, or cortisone without lasting relief
PRP is probably not your answer if…
- ·End-stage, bone-on-bone (KL grade IV) arthritis with deformity
- ·A knee that has already been recommended for replacement by exam + X-ray
Frequently asked questions
Does PRP work for knee arthritis?
Yes, for mild-to-moderate arthritis. Controlled studies show PRP reduces pain and improves function for up to a year and works better than hyaluronic-acid (gel) injections. It is most effective before the joint becomes bone-on-bone.
Can PRP help me avoid a knee replacement?
It can delay or, in earlier arthritis, help you avoid replacement by calming inflammation and supporting the remaining cartilage. It does not regrow a bone-on-bone joint. Dr. Hock, a surgeon who performs both, will tell you honestly which side of that line you're on.
How many PRP injections will my knee need?
Most knees do best with a series of two to three injections spaced about four to six weeks apart. Research on moderate arthritis specifically supports three or more injections for the best odds of success.
How much does PRP for the knee cost in Hawaii?
At Island Orthobiologics, PRP runs $1,200–$3,000 depending on how many areas are treated and how many sessions you need. It's cash-pay; most insurers consider PRP investigational, though HSA/FSA funds usually qualify.