OE Journal

ORIGINAL ANALYSIS

Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Versus Corticosteroid Injections for Painful Shoulder Conditions: Powered by OE M.I.N.D.

Research comparing PRP and corticosteroid injections for painful shoulder conditions continues to evolve, and the picture is becoming clearer. Across six RCTs, corticosteroids consistently delivered the faster relief, showing meaningful short-term improvements in pain and composite shoulder scores within the first 3–6 weeks. But those benefits didn’t last. As follow-up extended beyond six weeks, PRP began to outperform corticosteroids, offering better longer-term pain reduction and improved functional scores through 3–6 months. Importantly, neither treatment showed differences in adverse events or conversion to surgery, and no serious complications were reported. Overall, the evidence suggests corticosteroids help early symptoms settle, while PRP may offer more durable improvement over time.