FAQ — PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

PRP is created entirely from your own blood. During your visit, a small amount of blood is drawn—typically 10 to 30 ml—and placed in a specialized centrifuge. Within minutes, the blood components are separated by density, allowing us to isolate the high platelet concentration fraction. This final concentrate is precisely injected into the affected area. The entire process is completed in a single 20-minute visit, and you can return home immediately.

Platelets do much more than just clot blood—they are storage units for a rich supply of growth factors that naturally activate whenever the body repairs injured tissue. In PRP, these factors (such as PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, and IGF-1) are present at concentrations many times higher than normal and are delivered directly where needed. This triggers cell multiplication and tissue rebuilding at a level the body could not achieve on its own—especially in tissues with poor blood supply, like tendons and cartilage.

The primary orthopedic uses include osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, and ankle; chronic tendon issues like tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis; partial tendon tears; cartilage damage; and shoulder conditions. It is also used as biological support during or after surgery to speed up recovery.

Yes. PRP is the most well-documented orthobiologic therapy, supported by hundreds of clinical studies and meta-analyses in leading medical journals. For knee osteoarthritis, systematic reviews have proven PRP to be superior to hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids in reducing pain and improving function, with results lasting up to 12 months. For tendon issues, data is equally encouraging, particularly for chronic cases unresponsive to traditional treatments.

The blood draw is identical to a standard blood test. For the injection, we use local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. During the first 24 to 72 hours, it is normal to feel increased tension or soreness, indicating that the biological healing response has been activated.

PRP does not act as an instant painkiller—it acts as a biological stimulus for healing, and healing takes time. First noticeable results appear between 4 and 8 weeks. Maximum therapeutic effect develops between 3 to 6 months as tissue gradually rebuilds.

This depends on your specific condition and severity. In most cases, 1 to 2 sessions are administered 4 to 6 weeks apart. Some chronic conditions or advanced osteoarthritis may benefit from yearly maintenance cycles.

In our practice, yes—this is a clinical requirement. Ultrasound guidance ensures pinpoint accuracy into the target structure, which is critical for deep joints, small tendons, and focal lesions.

Conditions making treatment unsuitable include active infections, systemic inflammation, history of malignancy, autoimmune diseases, chronic liver disease, low platelet count, clotting disorders, blood thinners, skin infections at the site, recent isotretinoin or cortisone use, and pregnancy/breastfeeding.

Yes. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the inflammatory response that PRP needs to work. We usually recommend stopping them 1 week before and at least 2–4 weeks after the injection.

Because PRP is made from your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or rejection is practically zero. It contains no foreign substances, preservatives, or chemicals, guaranteeing biological compatibility.

Not always, but in many cases, it can significantly delay or even prevent the need for it. For early-to-moderate osteoarthritis or chronic tendon issues, PRP offers an effective option to improve quality of life while avoiding the operating room.

Coverage varies by provider and individual policy. We recommend contacting your insurance company before starting treatment, and our office can provide all necessary documentation.