Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

What Is a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

A Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injection is a regenerative therapy that utilises the body’s natural healing process to repair damaged tissues. This treatment involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s own blood, processing it in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets, growth factors, and cytokines, and then injecting it into the injured area.

PRP is widely used in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and pain management to help promote healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance tissue repair.

Who Can Benefit from PRP Injections?

PRP injections are ideal for patients who have not responded well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or rest. It is commonly used to treat:

Tendon injuries – Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries
Ligament injuries – ACL injuries, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, sprains, and tears
Muscle strains – Hamstring injuries, calf strains, and muscle tears
Osteoarthritis – Knee osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint conditions
Chronic pain conditions – Conditions involving persistent inflammation and tissue degeneration
Post-surgical recovery – PRP may support faster healing after orthopaedic procedures

Patients such as athletes, active individuals, and those with chronic musculoskeletal issues may particularly benefit from PRP as a non-surgical, natural healing option.

Key Benefits of PRP Injection

Accelerated healing – Growth factors in PRP stimulate cell regeneration and tissue repair.
Reduced pain and inflammation – PRP helps minimise inflammation in chronic musculoskeletal injuries.
Improved joint function – Many patients experience better mobility, flexibility, and strength.
Minimally invasive – PRP involves an injection procedure rather than surgery.
Low risk of side effects – Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or immune responses is minimal.
Versatility – PRP is effective for both acute injuries and chronic conditions.

Types of PRP Therapy

Different PRP preparations exist based on platelet concentration and white blood cell content:

Leukocyte-Poor PRP (LP-PRP) – Contains fewer white blood cells, reducing inflammation. Commonly used for joint conditions.
Leukocyte-Rich PRP (LR-PRP) – Includes more white blood cells, which may help stimulate healing in tendons and ligaments.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) – A variant that forms a fibrin scaffold to support wound healing.

The choice of PRP formulation depends on the condition being treated and patient-specific needs.

Alternative Treatments to PRP

While PRP is effective for many patients, alternative treatments may be considered:

Corticosteroid injections – Provide quick pain relief but may weaken tissues with prolonged use.
Hyaluronic acid injections – Improve joint lubrication, commonly used for osteoarthritis.
Prolotherapy – Uses irritants like dextrose to stimulate healing.
Stem cell therapy – Still being researched, aims to regenerate damaged tissues.
Physical therapy – Strengthening exercises to restore function.
Surgery – Recommended for severe injuries where other treatments fail.

Preparing for PRP Treatment

To maximise the effectiveness of PRP injections, follow these pre-procedure guidelines:

Consult your doctor – Discuss your medical history and medications.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications – Refrain from NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin) one week before treatment.
Stay hydrated and eat well – A balanced diet and adequate hydration improve blood quality.
Avoid smoking and alcohol – These can negatively impact healing.
Wear comfortable clothing – Ensures easy access to the injection site.

PRP Injection Procedure: Step-by-Step

Blood Collection – A small sample (6–60 mL) of your blood is drawn.
Centrifugation – Blood is spun in a centrifuge to isolate platelet-rich plasma.
Preparation – The concentrated PRP is drawn into a sterile syringe.
Injection Site Preparation – The targeted area is disinfected, and local anesthesia may be used.
PRP Injection – PRP is injected directly into the injured tissue, often under ultrasound guidance.
Post-Treatment Care – A bandage is applied, and recovery guidelines are provided.

What to Expect After a PRP Injection?

Post-procedure recovery varies, but patients generally experience:

Mild discomfort and swelling – Typically subsides in a few days.
Limited activity – Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours, then gradually return to normal activities.
Pain management – Use paracetamol, but avoid NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) to preserve platelet function.
Follow-up care – Regular check-ups help assess progress and optimise rehabilitation.

A structured recovery plan involving physical therapy, proper nutrition, and hydration enhances PRP’s effectiveness.

PRP Injection Results and Prognosis

Pain relief and healing – Patients often notice improvements within a few weeks.
Multiple sessions may be needed – Some conditions require 2–3 injections for optimal results.
Long-term benefits – PRP may improve tissue quality and reduce future injury risk.

Potential Risks of PRP

PRP therapy is generally safe, but potential risks include:

Temporary pain and swelling – Common and resolves naturally.
Bruising at the injection site – Minor and short-lived.
Infection risk – Rare when performed under sterile conditions.
Nerve damage – Very uncommon; requires proper injection technique.
Variable effectiveness – Some patients respond better than others.

Why Timing Matters in PRP Therapy

Starting PRP treatment at the right time can significantly impact recovery:

Early intervention – PRP for acute injuries may prevent chronic pain.
Delayed treatment risks – Postponing PRP may slow recovery or lead to chronic inflammation.
Personalised approach – Always discuss the best treatment timeline with your doctor.

Why Choose PRP?

PRP therapy is a scientifically backed, non-surgical solution for treating musculoskeletal conditions. By utilising your body’s natural healing process, PRP can reduce pain, improve mobility, and accelerate tissue repair.