Prolotherapy Via Platelet-Rich Plasma
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
What Is PRP?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses the body’s own healing mechanisms to support tissue repair. During the procedure, a small amount of the patient’s blood (approximately 30 mL) is drawn and processed in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets and growth factors.
This platelet-rich portion—often referred to as the “buffy coat”—is then carefully injected into the injured or painful area. The growth factors released by platelets help signal the body to recruit cells involved in tissue repair and healing.
How Long Has PRP Been Used?
PRP has been utilized in medical practice since the mid-1990s. It was first adopted in orthopedic surgery and plastic surgery to enhance bone healing and soft tissue recovery, and its use has expanded as research continues to evolve.
Conditions Commonly Treated With PRP
PRP therapy is commonly used for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Tendonitis and tendinopathy
- Osteoarthritis of the knees, hips, and thumbs
- Rotator cuff injuries and partial tears
- Ligament and tendon injuries
Published studies have demonstrated potential benefits such as:
- Improved joint function and mobility
- Smoother cartilage surfaces in degenerative joints
- Reduction of pain associated with osteoarthritis of the hips, knees, and shoulders
PRP may also be used for injuries involving the shoulders, knees, back, neck, jaw, elbows, hands, hips, ankles, and feet.
PRP is frequently chosen by individuals with chronic “wear-and-tear” injuries, including older adults as well as amateur and professional athletes.
Is PRP Safe?
PRP is generally considered safe when performed by trained medical professionals. Because it is derived from the patient’s own blood (autologous), the risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission is extremely low.
Temporary soreness, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site is common and usually resolves within several days. Serious complications are rare.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
A common treatment plan involves one PRP injection per month for up to three months. Some patients experience improvement after one or two treatments, while others may require additional injections depending on their condition and response.
Is PRP Right for Me?
PRP therapy may be an option if you suffer from arthritis, tendon injuries, or ligament damage that has not responded adequately to conventional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections.
PRP is less invasive than surgery and aims to support tissue healing with minimal scarring. Our clinicians evaluate each patient individually during a consultation to determine candidacy.
What Should I Expect After Treatment?
Mild to moderate discomfort at the injection site is common for 3–5 days following treatment. Some patients begin noticing improvement within one to two weeks as the healing process progresses.
Normal daily activities are encouraged, but strenuous exercise should be avoided initially. Activity levels may gradually increase 2–3 weeks after subsequent treatments, as directed by your provider.
*These therapies are offered as complementary and supportive medical treatments. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease and should not replace standard medical care. Individual responses vary. All patients undergo medical screening prior to treatment.
