A recent study indicates that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections do not provide better outcomes than placebo injections for patients suffering from greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS). The research, involving 79 patients with GTPS caused by bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy, found similar clinical improvements in both the PRP and placebo groups after one year.
The double-blinded, randomized controlled trial, led by Ismael Atchia, assigned participants to receive either a PRP injection or a saline placebo.
Outcomes, measured using tools like the International Hip Outcome Tool-12 (iHOT-12) and VAS pain score, showed no significant differences between the groups at 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year follow-ups.
Researchers suggest the natural progression of the condition, home exercises, and the placebo effect may account for pain reduction in both groups. The study advises against the routine use of PRP for refractory GTPS.