In a new study, treatment with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) for ankle osteoarthritis has been investigated. The study lasted for one year and involved 100 participants, with half randomly assigned to receive PRP treatment and the remaining participants receiving a placebo treatment. Each participant received two injections, one at the beginning of the study and another one 6 weeks later. Neither the study participants nor the administrators of the injections knew which of the two treatments they were receiving in advance, which enhances the credibility of the study.

We have written about PRP previously at the Arthritis portal, read more about what it is here.

According to the researchers in the study, ankle osteoarthritis often affects relatively young individuals, and in 70-78% of cases, it is preceded by a previous injury to the ankle. Currently, there are limited treatment options for this type of osteoarthritis.

The participants included in the study reported pain rated at 40mm or more on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). During the study, the participants also received information about the beneficial effects of exercise and weight loss for osteoarthritis. Some exercise forms, including walking and cycling, were specifically recommended.

At various points during the year, the participants evaluated their well-being based on several different factors, such as pain and quality of life.

According to the researchers behind the study, there was no difference between those treated with PRP and those treated with the placebo at the end of the study. Therefore, there is currently no evidence supporting the use of PRP as a treatment for ankle osteoarthritis. This result is supported by a similar study conducted previously. In the previous study, the effect of PRP was investigated in a similar way, but the study lasted for a shorter period, 26 weeks.

Click here to access the complete study in its entirety (the Sage Journals page will open in a new tab).