PRP Therapy in Orthopaedics: How It Works, Who Benefits & What to Expect

What is PRP Therapy?

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. Your blood contains platelets — tiny cells packed with growth factors that your body uses to heal tissue. In PRP therapy, a small amount of your blood is drawn, spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injected directly into the damaged joint or tissue.

What Conditions Does PRP Treat?

Knee Osteoarthritis

The most common use of PRP in orthopaedics. Studies show significant pain reduction and functional improvement in Grade 1-3 knee OA. It can delay or avoid the need for knee replacement in suitable patients.

Tennis Elbow & Golfer's Elbow

Chronic tendon injuries that do not respond to physiotherapy respond very well to PRP. Multiple studies show superior outcomes compared to cortisone injections in the long term.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

Partial rotator cuff tears and tendinopathy are treated effectively with PRP, particularly in patients wanting to avoid surgery.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Chronic Achilles tendon pain that fails conservative management — PRP has shown excellent results in multiple clinical trials.

Who is NOT a Good Candidate for PRP?

• Patients with Grade 4 knee arthritis (bone on bone)
• Active joint infection
• Blood disorders or patients on blood thinners
• Active cancer

Realistic Outcomes

Most patients notice improvement within 4-6 weeks. Maximum benefit is typically seen at 3 months. About 70-80% of suitable candidates experience significant pain reduction. Results typically last 12-18 months, after which a repeat injection may be considered.