OE Journal

ORIGINAL ANALYSIS

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

Shoulder pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints, and corticosteroid injections have long been a mainstay in its management. However, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising alternative, especially for chronic tendon-related conditions. Across six RCTs, corticosteroid injections consistently provided quicker relief, offering better short-term improvements in pain and function within the first 3–6 weeks. Beyond that early window, however, PRP began to show an advantage, with several trials reporting better mid-term outcomes—particularly between 3 and 6 months—while later follow-up periods showed little difference between the two options. Safety profiles were similar, with no notable increases in adverse events or conversions to surgery.