Overview
PRP platelet rich plasma treatment is a regenerative medicine technique that uses your own blood to support tissue healing. A small sample of blood is taken and processed to concentrate platelets into a plasma solution. This platelet rich plasma is then injected into a targeted area such as a tendon, joint, or soft tissue structure.
The goal of PRP platelet rich plasma treatment is to support the body’s natural healing biology rather than provide short term numbing alone. Platelets contain growth factors that may assist tissue repair and recovery in selected conditions.
Response varies depending on the condition being treated and the stage of tissue change. Some people notice gradual improvement over several weeks, while others may need a longer period to judge benefit. PRP is often most effective when combined with load management and a structured rehabilitation plan.
Who this treatment helps
PRP platelet rich plasma treatment may be considered for people with:
- Tendon related pain such as tendinopathy in selected areas
- Joint irritation where a regenerative approach may be appropriate
- Soft tissue injuries that persist despite conservative treatment
- Ongoing pain that limits activity despite physiotherapy and load management
- A clear diagnosis supported by examination and imaging where appropriate
- Goals focused on improving function, reducing flare ups, and supporting return to activity
A consultation is required to confirm whether PRP platelet rich plasma treatment is appropriate for your diagnosis and to discuss expected outcomes.
What is PRP platelet rich plasma
PRP platelet rich plasma is created by drawing a small sample of blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate platelets. The concentrated solution is then injected into the targeted area.
PRP platelet rich plasma treatment aims to:
- Support tissue healing processes
- Reduce local irritation in selected conditions
- Improve function and tolerance to rehabilitation
Depending on the area being treated, ultrasound guidance may be used to improve accuracy and safety.
What to expect during the procedure
Your appointment usually includes several steps.
- Consultant review of the treatment plan and the target area
- A small blood sample taken from your arm
- Processing of the blood sample to prepare PRP
- Skin preparation and local anaesthetic if needed
- Ultrasound guided or landmark guided injection into the target area
- Brief monitoring before discharge
The procedure is usually performed as a day case.
After the procedure
It is common to experience temporary soreness or aching at the injection site after PRP platelet rich plasma treatment. Some people also experience a short term increase in symptoms for several days.
Improvement usually develops gradually over weeks rather than immediately.
Your consultant may advise:
- Relative rest for a short period depending on the treated area
- Avoid heavy loading or intense exercise initially
- Gradual return to activity following a structured rehabilitation plan
- Physiotherapy to guide strengthening and movement progression
- Monitoring symptoms and reporting any concerns
Benefits
- Uses your own blood product as part of treatment
- May support healing in selected tendon, joint, or soft tissue conditions
- Minimally invasive with short recovery time
- Can support return to activity when combined with rehabilitation
- May reduce reliance on repeated steroid injections in selected cases
Possible risks and side effects
PRP platelet rich plasma treatment is generally well tolerated. Possible risks include:
- Temporary pain flare at the injection site
- Bruising or soreness
- Infection, which is rare
- Bleeding
- Temporary stiffness or swelling depending on the area
- Lack of benefit despite appropriate selection
Your consultant will explain individual risks and suitability before treatment.
When to consider other options
If PRP platelet rich plasma treatment is not suitable or does not provide sufficient benefit, your consultant may discuss steroid injections, nerve blocks, radiofrequency treatment, physiotherapy based rehabilitation programmes, or other minimally invasive procedures depending on the diagnosis.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder, active infection, or medical conditions that affect healing. Follow the recommended rehabilitation guidance carefully, as excessive loading too early may reduce the benefit of treatment.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether PRP platelet rich plasma treatment may be suitable for your condition.
You can also explore our regenerative medicine treatments, view other pain treatments, or learn more about our pain management services.