Platelet-Rich plasma may beat steroids for shoulder arthritis pain

NCT ID NCT05160441

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a shot of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from a person's own blood works better than a common steroid shot for shoulder arthritis pain. Fifty adults with mild to moderate shoulder osteoarthritis received either a PRP or steroid injection. Researchers measured pain, function, and quality of life over time to see which treatment offers better relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and corticosteroid injection
What this could lead to: If PRP works better than steroids, it could offer a longer-lasting, safer option for easing shoulder arthritis pain without surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed Phase 3 trial with only 50 participants. PRP may not prove more effective than steroids, and results may not apply to everyone with shoulder arthritis.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

familial pityriasis rubra pilaris osteoarthritis Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CORTICOSTEROID OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE SHOULDER PAIN PRP

Contacts and locations

Locations

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20889, United States

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