Background & Aims

The primary objective of this study was to assess and compare the pain relief achieved with intra-articular injections of steroid, Platelet Rich Plasma, and normal saline at different time points. Additionally, disability was evaluated using the PROMIS 29(Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System) scale.

Methods

75 eligible patients, were randomly allocated into three groups: Group S (steroid), Group P (PRP), and Group N (normal saline).Clinical profiles at baseline were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and PROMIS 29 scale. The NRS scores and T scores of various domains of PROMIS 29 were compared among the groups using one-way ANOVA tests. Repeated measures ANOVA tests were used for intra-group comparisons over time.

Results

This study compared the effectiveness of intra-articular injections (steroid – Group S, Platelet Rich Plasma – Group P, normal saline – Group N) in managing pain. Significant reductions in pain were observed at 1, 4, and 12 weeks, with Groups S and P consistently reporting lower mean pain scores than Group N. Intra-group analysis showed Groups S and P had significant improvements in NRS scores at various intervals, while Group N exhibited significant differences at 4 and 12 weeks. A chi-square test revealed Group S had the highest proportion (81.8%) experiencing more than 50% pain relief at 12 weeks. All groups exhibited substantial improvements in physical and psychological well-being, supported by significant within-group changes in T scores across various domains. Importantly, no adverse effects, except local pain at the injection site, were reported. These findings underscore the positive impact of the interventions on pain relief and overall patient well being.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates significant differences in pain levels among the three groups at various time points. Both steroid and PRP treatments led to pain relief and improved disability.

References

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Presenting Author

Baibhav Bhandari

Poster Authors

Baibhav Bhandari, MD, DM

MD,DM

AIIMS, Rishikesh

Lead Author

Ajit Kumar

MD

AIIMS, Rishikesh

Lead Author

Praveen Talawar

MD

AIIMS, Rishikesh

Lead Author

Ashutosh Tiwari MD DM

AIIMS Rishikesh

Lead Author

Topics

  • Treatment/Management: Interventional Therapies – Injections/Blocks