Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
A patient guide — how PRP works, which conditions it may suit, what to expect, and its honest limits.
PRP uses a concentrated portion of your own blood, rich in platelets and naturally occurring growth factors. Platelets are best known for clotting, but they also carry signaling proteins that participate in healing. A small blood sample is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelet-rich portion, then injected into the target area — using ultrasound guidance whenever appropriate. Because it’s made from your own blood, PRP is an autologous treatment.
Conditions that may be appropriate
Is PRP right for everyone?
No.PRP is one of many options. A comprehensive evaluation — diagnosis, severity, previous treatments, medical history, imaging, and activity goals — determines whether it’s appropriate. Some patients benefit more from physical therapy, exercise, medications, shockwave, surgery, or other treatments. Ultrasound guidance helps place the injection accurately while visualizing tendons, ligaments, nerves, vessels, and joints, and avoiding nearby structures.
The procedure & timeline
Most patients feel temporary discomfort during the injection and some soreness afterward that improves over several days. Biologic treatments support gradual tissue remodeling rather than immediate relief — some improve within weeks, others over two to three months or longer. Many receive a single treatment; others benefit from a staged plan. In many cases PRP is considered investigational by insurers and may not be covered; our office reviews expected costs beforehand.
Risks & improving results
Frequently asked
Most patients can, unless instructed otherwise.
It depends on the area treated — usually a period of relative protection, then a structured rehab program.
They work differently and generally aren't given together in the same session.
You may be asked to avoid certain ones before and after, since they can interfere with the desired healing response. Specific instructions are provided.
Often, yes — rehab is frequently an important part of recovery and can significantly influence outcomes.