PRP INFILTRATION VERSUS CORTICOSTEROIDS: A PRELIMINARY RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL

Chronic low back pain is one of the most prevalent health conditions, with significant social and economic impact. Its increasing incidence has driven the demand for new, effective therapeutic alternatives. This study compared the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and corticosteroid injections in the treatment of chronic low back pain of facet joint origin.

This was a randomized clinical trial involving patients with chronic low back pain of facet joint origin, selected through a positive response to medial branch block. Epidemiological data and clinical outcomes were analyzed, including disability questionnaires (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. Assessments were conducted at baseline, one month, and three months post-procedure.

A total of 59 patients were included, with 32 in the corticosteroid group and 27 in the PRP group. No significant differences were found between the treatments in terms of disability scores or the Roland-Morris Questionnaire. However, a significant interaction between treatment and time was observed (p = 0.038). Regarding pain scores, no significant differences were found between groups at any of the assessed time points.

The study found no evidence of superiority of platelet-rich plasma over corticosteroid injections in terms of pain reduction and functional outcomes for the treatment of lumbar facet syndrome. Level of evidence: I; Randomized clinical trial.