Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Focused Shock Waves in the Treatment of Jumper’s Knee in Athletes

Background:Tendinopathies represent a serious challenge for orthopaedic surgeons involved in treatment of athletes.Purpose:To compare the effectiveness and safety of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in athletes with jumper’s knee.Study Design:Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.Methods:Forty-six consecutive athletes with jumper’s knee were selected for this study and randomized into 2 treatment groups: 2 autologous PRP injections over 2 weeks under ultrasound guidance (PRP group; n = 23), and 3 sessions of focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (2.400 impulses at 0.17-0.25 mJ/mm2 per session) (ESWT group; n = 23). The outcome measures were Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Patella (VISA-P) questionnaire, pain visual analog scale (VAS), and modified Blazina scale. A reviewer who was blinded as to the group allocation of participants performed outcome assessments before treatment and at 2, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Non...