Duration of Pain Relief from Orthobiologics

My name is Mark Barba, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at Ortho Illinois, specializing in hip and knee surgery. For my patients, I also offer non-operative advanced treatments with orthobiologic treatments.

Orthobiologic treatments offer promising alternatives to traditional therapies for joint and musculoskeletal conditions. Many patients seek these treatments to reduce pain, improve function, and potentially delay or avoid surgery. One of the most common questions is: how long does the longevity of the positive results last?  Below are some common treatments and what can be expected for pain relief.

1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

• Effects typically last 6 to 12 months, with some patients experiencing relief for up to 2 years after a series of treatments.
• Periodic booster injections may be needed for chronic conditions.

2. Stem Cell Therapy (e.g., Bone Marrow Aspirate, Adipose-Derived Cells)

• Results can last 1 to 5 years, depending on the severity of the condition and how well the body responds.
• Some patients experience long-term relief, while others may require repeat treatments.

3. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections

• Relief usually lasts 3 to 12 months.
• More effective in mild to moderate osteoarthritis; repeat injections may be needed.

4. Cortisone Injections

• Typically provide relief for weeks to a few months, but effects vary based on the severity of inflammation and the individual’s response.
• Repeated use can lead to diminishing benefits over time.
• The longevity of cortisone’s effects may decrease with frequent injections, leading to less sustained relief.
• Cortisone can be catabolic, potentially leading to tissue breakdown, weakening of tendons, and cartilage degeneration over time.