Hyaluronic acid primarily provides joint “lubrication” and “shock absorption,” with effects lasting approximately 3-6 months; PRP, on the other hand, initiates “regeneration and repair,” resulting in longer-lasting effects (approximately 6-12 months or more).
It is generally recommended to inject once every 3 to 4 weeks, and a complete course of treatment requires about 3 to 4 injections, depending on the severity of the condition as assessed by a physician.
Suitable for patients with osteoarthritis, chronic tendon/ligament injuries, sports injuries, and those who wish to delay surgery or slow down joint aging.
PRP uses autologous blood to concentrate growth factors to initiate tissue repair and regeneration; painkillers mainly suppress pain temporarily, while PRP is a “root cause” treatment.
Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 1-2 weeks after surgery, and physical therapy should be followed as prescribed by the doctor to maximize the regeneration effect.
This treatment is most suitable for patients with moderate to severe degeneration, those who have had poor results with PRP, those who wish to delay surgery, or those who seek deep repair.
Initially, there may be localized swelling and soreness for 2-7 days. The pain usually subsides gradually after several weeks, and significant functional improvement can be seen within 6 months to 1 year.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and patients usually only experience a slight soreness or distension. Sedation may be used if necessary to allow the patient to complete the procedure in a nearly painless state.
