Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection

This guide explains Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection in clear, patient-friendly terms and follows the key sections patients usually ask about before treatment.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection is a procedure used to address tendon or joint pain where biologic support is desired. It aims to relieve pain, improve stability or motion, and help you return to daily activities. Your surgeon will tailor the plan to your anatomy, symptoms, and goals.

This procedure treats tendon or joint pain where biologic support is desired. It may be considered when symptoms persist despite activity modification, therapy, or other non-surgical care.

People with ongoing pain, instability, or functional limits that do not improve with conservative care may be candidates. A specialist confirms the diagnosis with exam and imaging and discusses whether this procedure is the best option.

• Persistent knee pain that limits daily tasks
• Swelling or recurrent effusions
• Catching, locking, or mechanical symptoms
• Instability or the knee giving way
• Reduced range of motion or stiffness

• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Improve stability, alignment, or motion
• Restore function for work, exercise, and daily life
• Protect joint structures when possible

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection delivers medication or biologic material into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation or to support healing. It is usually performed in a clinic setting with careful sterile technique.

• Landmark vs. image-guided placement based on anatomy and clinician preference.
• Medication or biologic selection tailored to symptoms and goals.
• Single injection vs. series depending on the product used.

Your team will review your medical history, perform a focused knee exam, and discuss symptoms and goals. This helps confirm the diagnosis and plan the safest, most effective approach.

• X-rays to assess alignment and joint space
• MRI to evaluate soft tissues like cartilage, meniscus, and ligaments
• CT or ultrasound when detailed bone or soft-tissue evaluation is needed
• Lab tests if infection or systemic issues are suspected

• Follow pre-op instructions on eating, drinking, and medication use
• Arrange transportation and at-home support
• Set up a recovery space with ice, pillows, and assistive devices
• Discuss any medical conditions or allergies with your care team

Your surgeon will advise which medications to pause, continue, or adjust. This often includes blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, and certain supplements. Do not stop prescribed medications without medical guidance.

Depending on the procedure, anesthesia may be general, spinal, regional nerve block, or a combination. Your anesthesiologist will recommend the safest option for your health and comfort.

1. Sterile skin preparation and local numbing.
2. Needle placement into the joint (often with image guidance).
3. Delivery of the medication or biologic.
4. Brief observation and post-procedure instructions.

This is usually performed as an outpatient clinic visit, and most people go home shortly afterward.

Pain control is typically multi-modal and may include ice, elevation, prescribed medications, and activity modification. Your team will provide a plan that balances comfort with safe healing.

• Infection or wound problems
• Bleeding or blood clots
• Stiffness or loss of motion
• Persistent pain or incomplete symptom relief
• Injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels

Outcomes vary based on the condition treated, surgical technique, and rehabilitation. Many patients experience meaningful pain relief and functional improvement, especially when they follow the rehab plan.

Rehabilitation restores motion, strength, and confidence. The program is tailored to the procedure and may progress from gentle mobility to strength and balance training.

Weight-bearing and walking aids depend on the procedure and tissue healing. Follow your surgeon's instructions to protect repairs and avoid setbacks.

Activity restrictions are phased. High-impact activity and sport are typically reintroduced only after strength, stability, and healing milestones are met.

Keep incisions clean and dry as instructed. Follow-up visits allow your surgeon to monitor healing, remove stitches if needed, and adjust the rehab plan.

• Fever, chills, or increasing redness around the incision
• Sudden increase in pain, swelling, or drainage
• Calf pain or shortness of breath
• Loss of sensation or new weakness

Alternatives may include activity modification, physical therapy, bracing, medications, injections, or other surgical options. Your surgeon will review which alternatives fit your diagnosis and goals.

Costs vary based on setting, complexity, implants, and insurance coverage. Ask your provider about pre-authorization, out-of-pocket costs, and coverage details.

• Is this the best procedure for my diagnosis and goals?
• What outcomes should I reasonably expect?
• What are the key risks in my case?
• What does my rehab plan look like?
• When can I return to work, driving, and sports?

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection addresses tendon or joint pain where biologic support is desired.
• Technique choices depend on anatomy, tissue quality, and goals.
• Rehabilitation is essential for long-term success.
• Discuss expectations and alternatives with your surgeon.