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Use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for musculoskeletal conditions continues to increase, based mostly on uncontrolled studies and anecdotal experience. But in three rigorous randomized trials in 2021, PRP was ineffective for patients with degenerative conditions of tendons and joints.
Based on the theoretical benefit of growth-promoting factors found in PRP, its use was examined in a study of 240 patients (mean age, 52) with chronic mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy in whom usual care had failed. Patients were randomized to single intratendinous injections of autologous centrifuged PRP or dry sham injections just under the skin. The two groups scored similarly on composite measures of pain and function at 2 weeks and at 3 and 6 mon…