Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a revolutionary approach in orthopaedic medicine. It uses the body’s natural healing potential to repair damaged joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Instead of relying on medications or surgery, PRP stimulates tissue regeneration using your own blood components — making it a safe, minimally invasive, and effective treatment for various orthopaedic conditions.
What is PRP Therapy?
PRP is a concentration of platelets derived from your own blood. Platelets are rich in growth factors — special proteins that promote healing and tissue repair. The process involves drawing a small sample of blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich portion, and then injecting it into the injured area.
Because PRP is made from your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or rejection is almost negligible. It essentially supercharges the body’s natural repair system where it is needed the most.
How PRP Works in Orthopaedics
When an injury occurs, the body naturally sends platelets to the site to initiate healing. However, in chronic or severe conditions, this process may slow down. PRP therapy intensifies the healing response by delivering a higher concentration of platelets directly into the affected joint or tissue.
Once injected, PRP releases growth factors that:
- Stimulate the formation of new tissue and blood vessels
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Accelerate recovery
- Improve joint function and mobility
Common Orthopaedic Conditions Treated with PRP
PRP therapy is versatile and beneficial across a wide range of musculoskeletal issues. It is commonly used to treat:
1. Osteoarthritis
PRP injections can help relieve pain and improve joint function in knee, hip, and shoulder arthritis. It reduces inflammation and may even help regenerate cartilage in early to moderate stages of arthritis.
2. Tendon Injuries
Conditions like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendonitis, and rotator cuff injuries respond well to PRP. It speeds up tendon healing and restores strength to the tissue.
3. Ligament Injuries
Mild to moderate ligament tears, such as those affecting the ankle or knee, can be treated effectively with PRP to avoid surgical intervention.
4. Sports Injuries
Athletes often use PRP therapy to recover faster from muscle strains, sprains, and overuse injuries. It allows them to return to their sport sooner and with better performance.
5. Post-Surgical Recovery
PRP can be used after orthopaedic surgeries, such as ACL reconstruction or joint replacement, to promote faster healing and reduce scar tissue formation.
The PRP Procedure: Step-by-Step
The process is simple, quick, and usually completed in under an hour:
- Blood Collection: A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm.
- Centrifugation: The sample is spun in a centrifuge to separate plasma rich in platelets.
- Preparation: The concentrated PRP is drawn into a syringe.
- Injection: The PRP is carefully injected into the affected area under ultrasound guidance to ensure accuracy.
Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two, though rest is recommended for optimal healing.
Benefits of PRP in Orthopaedic Treatments
- Natural and Safe: Uses the body’s own healing agents.
- Minimally Invasive: No surgery or hospital stay required.
- Reduced Downtime: Faster recovery compared to surgical options.
- Long-lasting Relief: Encourages actual tissue repair rather than masking pain.
- Customised Treatment: Tailored according to the patient’s specific injury or condition.
What to Expect After PRP Treatment
After PRP injections, you may experience mild soreness or stiffness at the injection site — a sign that the healing process has begun. This typically subsides in a few days. Improvement in pain and mobility can be noticed within two to six weeks, with continued progress over several months.
A short rest period followed by guided physiotherapy can enhance the outcome. Most patients experience lasting relief and improved function without the need for long-term medications or invasive procedures.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for PRP?
PRP therapy is suitable for:
- Patients with mild to moderate joint arthritis
- Individuals with chronic tendon or ligament injuries
- Those looking for alternatives to surgery
- Athletes seeking faster recovery from injuries
However, people with blood disorders, infections, or certain chronic illnesses may not be ideal candidates. It is important to consult a qualified orthopaedic specialist before proceeding.
Why Choose PRP Over Traditional Treatments?
Traditional orthopaedic treatments such as painkillers, steroids, and surgery often address symptoms rather than healing the root cause. PRP therapy works differently — it stimulates regeneration at a cellular level.
- Steroid injections may give temporary relief but can weaken tissues with repeated use.
- Surgery involves longer recovery times and potential complications.
- PRP, on the other hand, encourages natural healing, enhances joint strength, and improves overall function.
PRP Therapy Success and Research
Several clinical studies have supported the effectiveness of PRP in orthopaedic conditions. Research indicates significant improvement in pain relief and joint mobility among patients treated with PRP compared to traditional treatments.
When performed by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon, PRP therapy can deliver remarkable results, particularly when combined with physiotherapy and lifestyle adjustments.
FAQs About PRP in Orthopaedics
1. Is PRP therapy painful?
The procedure involves minimal discomfort. A local anaesthetic is often used to make the process nearly painless.
2. How many sessions will I need?
Depending on your condition, one to three sessions spaced a few weeks apart may be recommended.
3. Are there any side effects?
Since PRP uses your own blood, side effects are rare. You may experience temporary swelling or soreness at the injection site.
4. How soon will I feel improvement?
Most patients begin noticing results within a few weeks, with continued improvement over several months.
5. Can PRP replace surgery?
In many early and moderate cases of arthritis or injury, PRP can delay or even prevent the need for surgery. However, severe cases may still require surgical intervention.
6. Is PRP covered by insurance?
PRP therapy is considered a regenerative treatment and may not always be covered by insurance. Your doctor’s office can guide you on available options.
Recovery Tips After PRP Treatment
- Avoid strenuous activities for 24–48 hours.
- Use ice packs if mild swelling occurs.
- Stay hydrated and follow your doctor’s physiotherapy advice.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for a few days, as they may interfere with the healing process.
Consult Dr. Sumit Dubewar for PRP Therapy
If you are struggling with joint pain or sports injuries and want a natural, non-surgical solution, PRP therapy could be ideal for you.
Consult Dr. Sumit Dubewar, a leading Arthroscopy and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, known for his expertise in advanced regenerative and minimally invasive orthopaedic treatments.
Take the first step towards pain-free movement.
Book your appointment today with Dr. Sumit Dubewar and experience the power of natural healing through PRP.
