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Osteoarthritis (PRP & Experimental Options)

Osteoarthritis is joint "wear and tear" causing pain and stiffness. Some clinics offer PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, but the evidence is mixed and they are not a proven cure — proven treatments come first.

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Causes & risk factors

Age-related wear of joint cartilage
Previous joint injury
Being overweight (extra load on knees and hips)
Repetitive joint stress from work or sport
Family history
Joint alignment problems

Common symptoms

Joint pain, worse with use
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
Reduced movement in the joint
Grating or clicking with movement
Swelling around the joint

Tests & diagnosis

Clinical examination of the joint
X-ray of the affected joint
MRI in selected cases
Blood tests only to rule out other causes

Treatment & management

Proven care first — exercise, weight loss, physiotherapy, pain relief
Joint injections (steroid) for flare-ups
Joint replacement surgery for severe cases
PRP is investigational for osteoarthritis — evidence is mixed and it is not a cure
Be cautious of clinics promising cartilage regrowth or a cure

When to see a doctor urgently

Joint pain or stiffness that limits daily activities
A joint that is hot, red and swollen (could be another cause)
Before paying for PRP or stem-cell injections — get independent advice

Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about osteoarthritis (prp & experimental options). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Do PRP injections cure osteoarthritis?

No. PRP does not regrow cartilage or cure arthritis. Some studies suggest it may ease pain for a time in certain people, but the evidence is mixed, so it is considered experimental and is not a substitute for proven care.

Are private "stem-cell" injections for knees worth it?

Be cautious. For osteoarthritis these are largely unproven, often expensive and not routinely recommended. Discuss proven options with your doctor before paying for experimental treatments.

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MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.