DEAR DR. ROACH: I’m planning on getting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for my knee (due to arthritis and years of previous steroid/gel injections) as well as my large toe joint (due to a bone spur removal three years ago).

The most recent bone spur removal left very rough bone, causing periodic pain plus hyperesthesia in my toe. I am a 76-year-old male who is still active and not taking any regular medications. I do take ibuprofen prior to working out (pickleball, gym, biking and swimming).

What are your thoughts on this injection regimen, and why hasn’t the Food and Drug Administration approved it? Medicare won’t cover it. — C.H.

ANSWER: A 2023 review of 40 published trials found PRP injections for knee arthritis to be no more helpful than other injections, including steroids, hyaluronic

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