MoraMD: Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for Knee Arthritis: Live injection with Dr Steve Mora

Platelets are concentrated by spinning ones own blood sample in a centrifuge. The remaining concentrated platelet sample (PRP) is then injected into the affected area usually using an ultrasound machine to accurately direct the needle.
The number of injections required to effectively treat arthritis is not clear however most physicians will recommend 2 treatments.
Platelets release numerous growth factors including TGF-β1 and PDGF which stimulate mesenchymal cells and collagen production leading to healing of soft tissue injuries and pain reduction.
There have been a couple of scientific studies (references below) which showed that PRP can be effective in reducing arthritic knee pain for up to a year. But just like other treatments for arthritis, PRP doesn’t work for everyone.
As a physician I use PRP for my patients as an adjunct to bracing, physical therapy, weight loss, hyaluronate, stem cells, Lipogems, and radio frequency nerve ablation for treating arthritis. The bottoms line is that treatment for arthritis isn’t easy.


I have personally had good results with PRP injections into my arthritic knee. As a clinician I feel it’s important for me to try the treatments that I am recommending to my patients. And if it works or me on my severe arthritis it might work for my patients.

▶️Dr. Mora is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Restore Orthopedics and Spine Center in Orange County.
For a consultation please call Restore Orthopedics and Spine Center in the City of Orange 714.332.5498


• PRP References:
1 Am J Sports Med. 2013 Feb;41(2):356-64.
2 Clin J Sport Med. 2013 May;23(3):238-9