PRP Injections

What Are PRP Injections?

PRP injections, or platelet-rich plasma injections, are a regenerative medical technique used to treat various orthopedic conditions. This procedure involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood and processing it to separate and concentrate platelets, growth factors, and other healing components. The resulting PRP solution is injected directly into the affected area, such as the joints or tendons. PRP promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and can be a non-surgical solution for conditions like osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, and ligament strains.

Conditions That May Necessitate PRP Injections:

Signs Indicating You May Need PRP Injections:

You may be a candidate for Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy if you’re experiencing:

• Persistent joint or tendon pain
• Swelling or localized inflammation
• Limited range of motion or stiffness
• Difficulty performing daily activities
• Tenderness at the injury site
• Recurrent musculoskeletal issues
• Imaging (MRI or X-ray) showing tissue damage or degeneration

PRP therapy may be especially helpful for those seeking non-surgical options to support healing, reduce inflammation, and return to activity with less reliance on medications or invasive procedures.

How PRP Injections Work

PRP injections work by catalyzing the body’s innate healing mechanisms. PRP therapy involves collecting your blood and processing it to separate the platelets, which are rich in growth factors. When injected into an injured area, such as a damaged tendon or joint, these growth factors initiate a cascade of biological responses. They stimulate cell proliferation, collagen synthesis, and tissue repair, accelerating the body’s natural healing process. Additionally, PRP reduces inflammation and pain, making it an effective treatment for various orthopedic conditions.

Benefits of PRP Injections:

  • Accelerated tissue healing
  • Reduced pain and inflammation
  • Minimal risk of allergic reactions (autologous)
  • Non-surgical treatment option
  • Improved joint function
  • Potential for long-lasting relief
  • Customized treatment using the patient’s own blood
  • Minimal side effects and no downtime
  • Versatile application across orthopedic conditions
  • Promotes natural tissue regeneration

The Recovery Process After PRP Injections

Following a PRP injection, it’s common to experience mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. These side effects are typically short-lived and resolve within a few days.

While most patients can resume normal daily activities right away, it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 24–48 hours to allow the treatment to take full effect.

Improvement may occur gradually, depending on the condition being treated—some patients notice changes within a few weeks, while others may take a few months to experience full results. Follow-up appointments will help monitor your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.

PRP Injections Aftercare Guidelines:

To ensure optimal healing after your PRP injection, please follow these recommendations:

  • Rest and avoid strenuous activity for a few days
  • Apply ice to the injection site as needed for comfort
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended (avoid NSAIDs unless advised otherwise)
  • Follow any prescribed post-injection exercises or physical therapy
  • Stay hydrated and eat a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet
  • Avoid excessive alcohol and tobacco, which can impair healing
  • Attend all scheduled follow-ups to monitor progress
  • Contact the clinic if you experience unusual or worsening symptoms

These steps support your body’s regenerative process and help you get the most from your treatment.

Only One Component of Your comprehensive Plan

PRP injections are just one part of a comprehensive, personalized treatment strategy. While they can be highly effective in promoting tissue healing and reducing pain, the best outcomes are often achieved by combining therapies.

A comprehensive plan may also include:

  • Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
  • Lifestyle modifications to support healing and prevent reinjury
  • Medications, such as corticosteroids, when appropriate for short-term symptom relief

 

At Westlake Sports Medicine, care is tailored to your unique needs—ensuring each therapy
complements the next for sustainable, long-term results.

PRP Injections FAQs

A PRP injection typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This includes the time needed to draw your blood, process it to concentrate the platelets, and administer the injections.
The number of PRP injections needed varies based on the condition being treated. Most patients require one to three injections, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.
Results from PRP injections can vary, but many patients start to notice improvements within a few weeks. Full benefits typically appear after a few months as healing progresses.
PRP injections use your own blood to promote healing, unlike traditional treatments that may involve medications or surgery. This natural approach enhances tissue repair and regeneration, potentially leading to quicker recovery with fewer side effects.
Good candidates for PRP injections include individuals with chronic pain, joint injuries, or soft tissue damage who seek a non-surgical, regenerative treatment option.