Comparing Platelet-rich Plasma and Corticosteroid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis

Biological Response to Platelet-rich Plasma and Corticosteroid Injections

PHASE1; PHASE2 · University of Missouri-Columbia · NCT05657496

This study tests whether platelet-rich plasma or corticosteroid injections can help people with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and move better.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE1; PHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages40 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Missouri-Columbia (other)
Locations1 site (Columbia, Missouri)
Trial IDNCT05657496 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of two types of injections, corticosteroid and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), on pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Participants will receive one of the injections and complete surveys about their knee function at multiple time points. Additionally, blood and urine samples will be collected, and synovial fluid will be aspirated from the knee to assess joint health. The goal is to understand how these treatments impact both symptoms and joint cartilage over time.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 40 and over with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis who are eligible for either corticosteroid or biological treatment.

Not a fit: Patients under 40 years of age, those with previous knee surgeries, or individuals unable to receive corticosteroid injections will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide new insights into effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored similar injection therapies for knee osteoarthritis, showing varying degrees of success, but this specific comparison of PRP and corticosteroids is less common.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged 40 and over, presenting with a knee disorder of at least one knee
* Patients eligible for use of either corticosteroid or biological agent for treatment of moderate or severe (but not end-stage) knee osteoarthritis
* KL grade of 2-3

Exclusion Criteria:

* Subjects less than 40 years of age
* Previous reconstructive knee surgery
* Participating in another clinical trial
* Unable to receive corticosteroid injections (i.e., allergies, adverse reactions, etc.)
* Unable to sign informed consent
* Pregnant or plan to become pregnant

Where this trial is running

Columbia, Missouri

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Knee Osteoarthritis, Knee Pain, Osteoarthritis, Corticosteroid, Platelet-rich Plasma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.