PRP for Joint Pain: Complete Guide to Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment

What is PRP? 

Platelet-rich plasma injections are used to reduce pain and speed healing for a number of common problems of the tendons, muscles, and joints. This innovative treatment harnesses your body's own healing mechanisms by concentrating platelets from your blood and injecting them directly into injured or damaged joint tissues.

PRP therapy has gained significant momentum in recent years due to rising patient demand for non-surgical alternatives and its regenerative potential. Studies have shown that some types of platelet-rich plasma treatment may be effective in improving low- to moderate-grade knee osteoarthritis, offering hope for millions suffering from joint pain.

How PRP Works?

The PRP process is straightforward but scientifically sophisticated:

1. Blood Draw: Your healthcare provider draws 30-6l mL of blood from your arm, similar to routine blood work.
2. Centrifugation: The blood is placed in a centrifuge machine that spins at high speeds, separating plasma (the liquid portion) from red blood cells and concentrating the platelets.
3. Preparation: The concentrated platelet-rich plasma is extracted, creating a solution with 4-6 times the normal concentration of platelets.
4. Injection: Using ultrasound guidance for precision, the PRP is injected directly into the affected joint or tissue.

The science behind the PRP therapy: The platelets, one type of blood cell, contain growth factors that can trigger cell proliferation, speed healing, and stimulate tissue regeneration in the treated area. These growth factors include platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which work together to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.

Which Joint Conditions Can PRP Injections Improve?

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA)

The strongest evidence for PRP exists in treating knee osteoarthritis. Overall, 60% of patients from stage 2 to stage 4 osteoarthritis had good outcomes in recent studies. Multiple platelet-rich plasma injections are superior to single PRP injections or saline in osteoarthritis of the knee, according to 2025 research findings.

Other Joint and Tendon Conditions

PRP shows promise for:

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Achilles tendinitis
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Plantar fasciitis

PRP Injection Comparison with Other Treatments

PRP was found to be statistically superior to corticosteroids at mid-term follow-up, though corticosteroids may provide faster initial relief. Corticosteroids can lead to issues long term in joints that are shorter term improvements rather than long term healing. 

Who Performs PRP Injections?

Qualified PRP providers include:

• Sports medicine physicians
• Orthopedic surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine doctors are able to understand the joint anatomy without using an ultrasound because of their experience working in the joints. If receiving a PRP from anyone other than an orthopedic surgeon, please ensure that they are using an ultrasound to guide them as they are less familiar with the anatomy and physiology of the joints. 

What to Expect During PRP Injection?

Before Your Appointment

• Medications to Pause: Stop anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) 1-2 weeks before treatment, as they may interfere with platelet function. Discuss all medications with your provider.
• What to Tell Your Provider: Current medications, allergies, bleeding disorders, recent infections, and treatment goals.

During the Procedure

The entire process takes approximately 30-60 minutes:

• Blood draw (5 minutes)
• Centrifugation processing (15-20 minutes)
• Injection preparation (5-10 minutes)
• Injection procedure (10-15 minutes)

Local anesthetic is typically used to minimize discomfort during injection.

After Treatment

• First 1-2 Days: Mild soreness and swelling at injection site is normal. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
• Week 1-2: Gradual reduction in injection site discomfort. Avoid anti-inflammatory medications.
• Week 2-6: Initial improvements often become noticeable. Physical therapy may be recommended.
• Month 2-6: Peak benefits typically occur during this period.

Week-by-Week Timeline

• Week 1: Injection site soreness, rest recommended
• Week 2-3: Inflammation subsides, gentle movement encouraged
• Week 4-6: Initial pain relief and improved function
• Week 8-12: Continued improvement, return to activities
• Month 3-6: Peak benefits, sustained pain relief
• Month 6-12: Maintained improvement, consider booster if needed

Finding the Right PRP Provider

PRP injections represent a promising regenerative treatment option for joint pain and various musculoskeletal conditions. While the evidence shows moderate to good results for conditions like knee osteoarthritis and tendon injuries, patients should understand both the potential benefits and current limitations of this therapy. The treatment's safety profile and non-surgical nature make it an attractive option for those seeking alternatives to more invasive procedures.

At Aesthetx, we understand the importance of having qualified, experienced providers for PRP treatments. Our team of skilled professionals uses the latest techniques and ultrasound guidance to ensure safe, effective treatment delivery. If you're considering PRP therapy for joint pain or other conditions, we encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss whether this innovative treatment is right for your specific needs.

Ready to explore PRP treatment options? Book your consultation at Aesthetx today and take the first step toward natural pain relief and improved joint function.