Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses a concentrated portion of your own blood to support the body’s natural healing response. It may be used for certain joint and tendon conditions, particularly when pain continues despite treatments such as physical therapy, activity modification, or medication.
PRP offers a non-surgical treatment option that works differently from traditional injections. Rather than simply targeting inflammation or temporarily masking pain, PRP uses platelets and naturally occurring growth factors from your own blood to support the healing environment within the treated area.
How Does PRP Work?
PRP begins with a simple blood draw. Your blood is placed in a centrifuge, which separates and concentrates the platelet-rich portion. The PRP is then injected directly into the area being treated.
When appropriate, ultrasound guidance is used to visualize the injured or painful structure and precisely guide the injection.
What Can PRP Help Treat?
PRP is most commonly considered for certain joint and tendon conditions, including some patients with knee osteoarthritis and select chronic tendon problems.
Not every injury responds to PRP in the same way. Your physician will evaluate the cause of your symptoms and discuss whether PRP makes sense for your specific condition.
What to Expect
PRP is performed in the office and typically takes about 30–60 minutes. Because the treatment is prepared from your own blood, allergic reactions to the PRP itself are uncommon.
Some soreness or swelling around the injection site can occur afterward. PRP does not typically provide immediate relief; when patients respond to treatment, improvement generally develops gradually over the following weeks.
Supporting Your Recovery
PRP is often most useful when considered as part of an overall treatment plan. Depending on your condition, your physician may combine treatment with physical therapy, therapeutic exercise, and other non-operative care to help reduce pain, improve movement, and support your return to everyday activities.