PRP Injections

What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a regenerative treatment that uses a concentration of your own platelets to promote healing in injured or degenerated tissues. It is most commonly used in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, where clinical studies have shown pain relief and improved function for over a year, particularly in patients awaiting knee replacement surgery. PRP is also widely used for sports injuries and chronic tendon or joint conditions, and has been utilised by elite athletes to support recovery following injury.

How is PRP made and how does it work?

A sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm by one of our experienced clinicians. We use a specialist system to prepare the PRP safely and efficiently. The blood is placed into a centrifuge, where it is spun at high speed to separate its components. The platelet-rich layer is then isolated and injected into the affected area under ultrasound guidance for accuracy.

Platelets contain growth factors and cytokines that help reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. PRP contains a significantly higher concentration of these healing factors compared to normal blood, creating an optimal environment for recovery in joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

How do platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections work?

PRP therapy involves concentrating platelets from your blood and delivering them directly into the injured area. These platelets release growth factors that stimulate tissue regeneration, improve healing, and reduce inflammation. This makes PRP particularly effective for conditions affecting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints.

What are the benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections?

• Stimulates natural healing and tissue regeneration
• Reduces inflammation and pain
• Improves mobility and function in the affected area
• Supports recovery from tendon, ligament, and joint injuries
• Minimally invasive with little to no downtime
• May reduce the need for surgical intervention

What conditions are treated with PRP injections?

PRP has been extensively studied in the treatment of mild to moderate (grade I–III) knee osteoarthritis, where a course of injections can provide long-lasting pain relief. There is also strong and growing evidence supporting its use in other joints and chronic soft tissue conditions.

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Hip, ankle, and thumb arthritis
• Patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee)
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy
• Lateral hip pain / trochanteric bursitis
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Plantar fasciitis
• Muscle and ligament injuries
• Chronic soft tissue injuries

How many injections will I need?

The number of injections varies depending on the condition being treated. Research suggests that the most effective outcomes are achieved with a course of 2–3 injections. Your clinician will advise on the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

Are there any side effects of PRP?

PRP is generally very well tolerated, as it uses your own blood. The most common side effect is mild soreness at the injection site, which may last a few days. Serious side effects are rare, but all potential risks will be discussed with you prior to treatment.

Can I have PRP if I am taking anti-inflammatory medication?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, can interfere with platelet function and may reduce the effectiveness of PRP treatment. Patients are usually advised to stop these medications for one week before and four weeks after treatment, where clinically appropriate.

Is there a limit to how many PRP injections I can have?

There is no strict limit on the number of PRP treatments you can receive. If you respond well, injections can be repeated as needed. Some patients choose to have maintenance injections periodically to sustain symptom relief and function.

What do our specialists think about PRP injections?

Following a detailed review of current research, PRP injections are considered an effective treatment option for patients with moderate knee osteoarthritis and certain tendon conditions. Although more expensive than cortisone injections, PRP may provide longer-lasting relief and does not carry the same potential long-term risks associated with repeated steroid use.

PRP should also be considered for other joint and tendon conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments. Our specialist clinicians will assess your condition and advise whether PRP is the most appropriate option, or recommend alternative evidence-based treatments where necessary.

Is the PRP injection procedure painful?

The procedure is minimally invasive and generally well tolerated. Some patients experience mild discomfort during the injection, which typically settles quickly. Tendon injections may result in slightly more post-procedure soreness compared to joint injections.

How long does it take for PRP injections to show results?

Some patients may notice early improvement within a few days, but it is more common for significant benefits to develop over several weeks following a course of injections, as the healing process progresses.