PRP vs Hyaluronic acid

[JohnnyG123]

In relation to my other thread asking about PRP injections, I've also been suggested Hyaluronic acid injections.

My condition: I suffer from lateral tibial cartilage fissures grade 1-2 damage on both knees.

I was wondering what the community here would recommend between the two and why?

Up until now I've seen and read quite a bit about PRP but have not yet heard of Hyaluronic acid.

[vickster]

HA aka viscosupplementation has been indicated for mild to moderate arthritis of the type you describe for years. I had my first in December 2010, and a couple of rounds since. Works well for me, lubricates the joint and reduces inflammation and swelling.  Injections are painless in my experience, done into the joint space by a knee specialist;
there are several brands. If you look at the websites you'll get a better idea- synvisc, orthovisc, ostenil, euflexaa, durolane.
Some involve three jabs, some one. I've found no difference in efficacy or discomfort. Some do say the singles are more viscous so can be more painful. Not my experience with reformulated   Ostenil plus
Some brands are poultry derived so be cautious if egg allergic for example

[mulberrysdream]

How about BMAC stem cell injections? Or depending on your age...also add Fat derived stem cells as well (if you're "older"). Much more beneficial for cartilage than PRP.

Grade 1 and 2 sounds like you could potentially be "cured" by a single injection I know they cost a lot more than PRP...but they certainly seem to be worth it. Feel free to message me if you want more info.

I'm a patient of Dr Laprade's....and have now undergone 4 BMAC injections since my most recent surgery...and have been told it's really my only hope at majorly slowing down the OA.

[mulberrysdream]

HA can certainly buy you some time...depending on your situation, and would most likely be covered by insurance...

[JohnnyG123]

I most definitely want to do BMAC injections and am more than willing to pay.

The problem is, I can't seem to find anyone offering BMAC / stem cell related treatment.

I am contact all the orthopedic specialists in my area, but so far no luck. I have heard great things about Dr Laprade - and I'm actually considering looking into temporarily relocating in the hopes that I'd be able to receive the treatment I need. :/

[vickster]

Have you looked into the stem cell options available in Easten Europe, might be more accessible from South Africa than the US and cheaper

Look for posts by psny about his experiences, travelled from the US to Poland I believe