PRP Injection

This guide explains Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment.

PRP uses your own blood to support natural healing over time.

At the heart of my practice is Shared Decision-Making. Whether we pursue conservative management (Plan A) or surgical intervention (Plan B), the goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and functional goals.

What is PRP?

PRP works by delivering a high concentration of growth factors directly to the injured area. Unlike a steroid injection, it does not provide immediate pain relief — instead it aims to support the body’s natural healing process over time.

How Does PRP Work?

• Growth factors released from platelets encourage tissue repair.
• Inflammation modulation helps promote healing rather than suppress it.
• Tissue regeneration may support recovery of tendons, ligaments, muscles or cartilage.

Common Uses of PRP

• Chronic tendon problems (tennis/golfer’s elbow, rotator cuff tendinopathy)
• Sports injuries (muscle strains, ligament sprains)
• Early arthritis (mild–moderate knee or shoulder osteoarthritis)
• Surgical support — alongside surgery in selected cases to aid healing

What Are the Alternatives?

• Physiotherapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Steroid injections
• Surgery
• Activity modification

Who is Not Suitable for PRP?

Please tell us if you have, or are being treated for:

• Active infection
• Cancer (malignancy)
• Bleeding or clotting disorders
• Blood-thinning medication (in some cases)
• A joint replacement in the area being treated

Risks & Safety

Possible Risks or Complications

PRP is generally safe as it uses your own blood, but as with any injection:

• Temporary increase in pain or inflammation
• Bruising or bleeding at the injection site
• No improvement, or worsening of symptoms
• Skin colour changes
• Infection (rare) or injury to nearby nerves/vessels
• Prolonged stiffness or discomfort

Can I Be Allergic to PRP?

Allergic reactions are extremely rare because PRP comes from your own blood. Very rarely, patients may react to:

• Local anaesthetic
• Other substances used during preparation

Before the Procedure

Medications

• Stop anti-inflammatory medication 3–4 days before treatment
• Stop systemic steroid tablets 1–2 weeks before (if advised)
• Avoid steroid injections in the area for at least 1 month
• Do not stop long-term steroid tablets suddenly — discuss with your doctor

Diet & Hydration

• Eat a normal, healthy breakfast
• Drink plenty of water on the day of the procedure

The PRP Procedure

• The procedure takes about 30 minutes
• A small amount of blood (30–60 ml) is taken from your arm
• The blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets
• PRP is injected into the affected area, sometimes using ultrasound guidance
• Local anaesthetic may or may not be used

After the PRP Injection

First 0–3 Days

Mild to moderate pain is normal and part of the healing response.

• Rest the area and stay well hydrated
• Avoid: anti-inflammatories, ice or heat packs, alcohol, smoking and excess caffeine

3–14 Days

• Gradually return to normal daily activities
• Begin physiotherapy or prescribed exercises
• Ice packs may be used for comfort (15–20 min, 3–4× daily)
• Anti-inflammatory medication may be used sparingly

4–6 Weeks

• A second PRP injection may be considered if advised
• Continue exercises and physiotherapy for best results

After Discharge

• Resume light activities and work as comfort allows
• Avoid heavy or strenuous tasks for a few days if you do manual work
• Return to driving when you feel safe and comfortable
• A follow-up may be arranged at 6–8 weeks