The effect of intra-articular platelet-rich plasma injection on pain and lameness in dogs with osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and progressive degenerative joint disease in dogs, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and diminished quality of life. Conventional management strategies primarily aim to alleviate and palliate clinical signs of pain and reduced mobility. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an emerging regenerative therapy that has gained interest for its potential disease modifying effects, through modulating inflammation and promoting tissue repair. This paper provides a critical appraisal of current literature on the effectiveness of intra-articular injection of PRP compared to a placebo on the clinical outcomes of lameness and pain in dogs with OA. Findings from 7 studies indicate that current evidence supporting the effectiveness of PRP in reducing pain and lameness is weak. Further research in the form of large, randomised, blinded controlled clinical trials is required to further assess the efficacy of PRP.