Could PRP help?

PRP uses your own blood, which reduces the risk of allergic reaction, and whole-body side effects are uncommon. As with any injection there are small risks, such as temporary soreness, a short-term flare or, rarely, infection. Your clinician should review your medical history and medicines, including blood thinners, first.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made by concentrating platelets from your own blood and injecting them into the area being treated. It may help some people with knee osteoarthritis or certain persistent tendon problems. The evidence varies by condition, so your clinician should explain the likely benefits for you.

You may feel a brief sting during the blood sample and discomfort or pressure during the injection. The treated area can feel more sore afterwards, sometimes for several days. Your clinician will explain what to expect and how to manage discomfort.

Improvement usually develops gradually over several weeks. Some people experience relief lasting months, while others notice little benefit. There is no guaranteed timetable or duration. Your clinician should arrange a review to assess changes in pain, movement and everyday activity.

Some treatment plans involve one injection; others use a course. The number and spacing depend on your condition, the PRP preparation and your response. Before starting, ask how many appointments are proposed, what the full course costs and when progress will be reviewed.

This again can vary depending on what you need. PRP is used in aesthetics, for example, or even hair restoration, and it tends to require smaller blood samples because those procedures need fewer platelets. For an arthritic large joint, don’t be alarmed if your clinicians take 80 mL of blood. This takes around 2 – 3 minutes. This gives a much higher platelet count and stronger biological injection.

Temporary pain, swelling and bruising can occur. Less common complications include infection, bleeding and injury to nearby tissues. Using your own blood does not make treatment risk-free. Seek urgent medical advice if you develop increasing pain with heat, redness, fever or feeling unwell.

This depends on the area treated and how physically demanding your work or exercise is. You may need to reduce strenuous activity initially, then build up gradually with a rehabilitation plan. Ask your clinician about work, driving and sport before your appointment.

Tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements you take. They may recommend changes to anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen around treatment, but advice varies. Do not stop prescribed aspirin, blood thinners or other medicines without agreement from the clinician responsible for them – but do tell your clinicians carrying out the PRP procedure.

Prices vary by clinic, treatment area and number of injections. Ask whether the quoted price includes assessment, ultrasound guidance, follow-up and rehabilitation. Insurance coverage also varies, so confirm approval with your insurer before booking.