Is PRP Therapy for Knees Better Than Steroid Injections? Here’s the Truth

Jack Thomas
8 hours ago
4 min read

When knee pain creeps into your life, even the simplest things—like walking the dog or climbing stairs—can start to feel like a challenge. For residents in The Villages who are active and love their daily routines, chronic knee pain isn’t just inconvenient—it’s life-altering. The big question is: What’s the best treatment option?

In the past, steroid injections were the go-to solution for knee pain. But a new, more natural alternative is making waves: PRP therapy for knees. So, which one really works better—PRP or steroids? Let’s dive into the facts, bust some myths, and get to the real story.

What Is PRP Therapy for Knees?

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. It sounds high-tech, but the idea is simple and natural. PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your own blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, and then injecting that concentrated plasma into your knee joint.

These platelets are rich in healing factors that promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation. In simple terms: PRP uses your body’s own healing power to fix itself.

That’s a major difference from traditional steroid shots, which act more like a temporary band-aid rather than a long-term fix.

What Are Steroid Injections?

Steroid injections are anti-inflammatory medications (like cortisone) that are injected directly into the joint to quickly reduce pain and swelling. They’ve been around for decades and are still commonly used for conditions like arthritis and knee injuries.

They work fast, and for some people, they provide instant relief. But here’s the catch: they don’t actually help your body heal—they just mask the pain and inflammation for a short while.

PRP Treatment for Knee vs. Steroids: The Key Differences

Feature	PRP Therapy for Knees	Steroid Injections
Source	Your own blood	Synthetic medication
Goal	Heal the tissue and reduce inflammation	Suppress inflammation temporarily
Duration of Relief	Long-term (6 months or more)	Short-term (weeks to a few months)
Number of Treatments	Usually 1–3 injections	May require repeated injections
Side Effects	Minimal (since it’s natural)	Risk of joint damage with repeated use
Cost (initially)	Higher upfront	Usually lower upfront
Overall Value	Long-term healing	Quick but temporary relief

The Science Doesn’t Lie

Studies show promising results for PRP therapy for knees. In fact, a 2020 study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that patients who received PRP had better pain relief and improved function at 6 months and 1 year compared to those who received corticosteroid injections.

Another review of multiple studies showed that PRP outperformed hyaluronic acid and steroids in improving pain and mobility for patients with osteoarthritis.

So, while steroids might feel good in the short term, PRP could be your ticket to longer-lasting relief.

Real Talk: What Do Patients in The Villages Say?

At Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic, located right in the heart of The Villages, more and more patients are turning to PRP treatment for knee problems—and they’re not looking back.

Imagine this: John, a 67-year-old golf enthusiast, had been getting steroid injections every 3–4 months just to keep playing. But he started to notice the relief was fading faster each time. After talking with Dr. John Theeck D.C., he tried PRP. Three months later, not only was he back on the golf course, but his knees felt stronger than they had in years.

This kind of story is becoming more common as people learn how PRP helps the body heal, not just numb the pain.

Why Steroid Injections Might Be Hurting More Than Helping

Steroid injections are effective—but with limits. The more you use them, the higher the risk of side effects like cartilage damage, joint weakening, and even increased pain over time.

In short, repeated steroid shots can become a slippery slope.

Think of it like using duct tape on a leaky pipe—it may stop the water for now, but the problem underneath just keeps growing. On the other hand, PRP is like hiring a plumber to fix the pipe for good.

The Long-Term Benefits of PRP Therapy for Knees

Improved Joint Function – PRP helps the knee regain strength and flexibility.
Slows Down Arthritis Progression – Instead of just quieting inflammation, it supports cartilage health.
Reduces Need for Surgery – For many, PRP delays or even avoids the need for knee replacement.
Less Medication Dependence – No need to rely on painkillers or repeated injections.

If you're looking for a future where you're not constantly scheduling shots or popping pills, PRP might be the game-changer you’ve been hoping for.

Is PRP Right for You?

Here are a few signs PRP might be a good option:

You’ve had repeated steroid injections with diminishing results.
You want to avoid or delay knee surgery.
You’re active and want to return to walking, golfing, or biking pain-free.
You’re dealing with osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, or chronic inflammation.

That said, PRP isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why getting evaluated by a qualified professional like Dr. John Theeck D.C. at Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic is essential.

He and his team understand the unique needs of patients in The Villages, and they’ll tailor a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.

What to Expect During PRP Therapy

It’s surprisingly simple:

A small blood draw (like a regular lab test).
Your blood is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets.
The PRP is injected directly into your knee joint.
You relax and allow your body to do what it does best—heal.

Most people can resume normal activity within 24–48 hours, and improvements often begin within a few weeks. The full effects typically peak around the 6–12 week mark.

Final Verdict: PRP or Steroids?

Let’s keep it real: steroid injections have their place, especially for sudden flare-ups or short-term pain control. But if you’re thinking long-term—about staying active, avoiding surgery, and actually healing the root of the problem—PRP therapy for knees is the smarter choice.

Yes, it costs a bit more upfront. But when you factor in fewer repeat visits, reduced pain meds, and better mobility, the value is clear.

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief

Living in The Villages means enjoying an active lifestyle. Don’t let knee pain sideline you.

Whether you’ve tried steroid injections in the past or you’re just beginning your journey with joint pain, consider PRP treatment for knee problems as a long-term solution. It’s a natural, science-backed, and effective way to get back to doing what you love—pain-free.

At Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic, you’re not just getting a treatment—you’re getting a team that cares, understands, and tailors your recovery to your life. If you’re ready to take that step, there’s no better time than now.