Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections are a regenerative treatment used for selected sports injuries, tendon disorders and joint pain. PRP is prepared from a sample of your own blood and injected into the affected area to support the body's natural healing process. At Northmead Medical Centre, PRP injections may be considered for suitable patients after a comprehensive medical assessment.

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Conditions That May Benefit from PRP

PRP injections may be considered for selected patients with:

• Tennis elbow

• Golfer's elbow

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy

• Shoulder tendinitis

• Achilles tendinopathy

• Patellar tendinopathy (Jumper's knee)

• Hamstring tendon injuries

• Plantar fasciitis

• Chronic ankle ligament injuries

• Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis

• Sports-related muscle and tendon injuries

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What Is PRP?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is prepared using a small sample of your own blood.

The blood is processed to concentrate the platelets, which contain growth factors involved in tissue repair and healing. The PRP is then injected into the affected tendon, ligament, muscle or joint.

Because PRP is prepared from your own blood, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction.

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Benefits of PRP Therapy

PRP treatment may help:

• Promote the body's natural healing response

• Reduce pain

• Improve function

• Support recovery from tendon injuries

• Improve participation in rehabilitation

• Reduce reliance on pain medication

• Delay more invasive treatments in selected patients

As with all treatments, individual results vary depending on the underlying condition.

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The PRP Procedure

The procedure generally involves:

1. Assessment of the injury.

2. Collection of a small blood sample.

3. Preparation of the PRP using a centrifuge.

4. Injection of the PRP into the affected area.

5. Advice regarding rehabilitation and follow-up care.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.

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Benefits of PRP Injection Therapy

PRP injection therapy may offer several potential benefits for selected patients with sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Supporting the body's natural healing process

• Reducing pain and inflammation

• Improving joint or tendon function

• Promoting recovery from tendon, ligament and muscle injuries

• Assisting return to sport and normal daily activities

• Using the patient's own blood, minimising the risk of allergic reaction

• Providing a non-surgical treatment option for selected conditions

The degree of improvement varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the injury and individual healing response.

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Risks & Side Effects

PRP injections are generally well tolerated because the treatment uses your own blood. However, as with any injection procedure, potential risks include:

• Temporary pain or soreness at the injection site

• Mild swelling or bruising

• Temporary stiffness

• Bleeding

• Infection (rare)

• No improvement in symptoms despite treatment

Some patients experience increased discomfort for several days after the injection before gradual improvement occurs. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks before treatment.

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Recovery & Aftercare

Following a PRP injection, your doctor will provide individualised aftercare instructions.

Patients are commonly advised to:

• Rest the treated area for the first 24–48 hours

• Avoid strenuous exercise for a period recommended by your doctor

• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for a period after treatment, where appropriate

• Use paracetamol if pain relief is required, unless otherwise advised

• Commence or continue a rehabilitation programme, including physiotherapy if recommended

Recovery varies depending on the injury being treated. Improvement is often gradual over several weeks to months as tissue healing occurs.

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