Abstract
Objective: To determine the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and exercises in a group of patients with grade 3 osteoarthritis of knee.
Methodology: In this pre and post interventional study, 29 patients with grade 3 osteoarthritis of knee were injected PRP under sterile conditions with a 22 G needle using a lateral approach while the patient was lying in supine position and the knee was flexed at 90º. Exercise training program (active and passive range of motion, stretching of tight structures, isometrics, and deep breathing exercises) was given four weeks before and eight weeks after PRP injection. Evaluation was conducted before the procedure and three and six months post treatment with Modified Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Scoring System (HSS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC).
Results: All 29 completed the follow-up. There were 5 Male and 24 Female patients. Mean of age was 57.38 years. HSS and WOMAC Scores were significantly better than pre injection scores during the follow-up period (p<0.001).
Conclusions: PRP combined with exercises is a reliable, safe and effective treatment for pain relief and functional status of grade 3 knee osteoarthritis. Only one injection with regular exercises is sufficient.

Key words: Platelet-Rich Plasma, exercises, knee osteoarthritis