What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and How Does It Work?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an innovative regenerative treatment that uses the body’s own healing cells to accelerate recovery and reduce inflammation. It has become increasingly popular in orthopaedics, sports medicine, and aesthetic medicine for its ability to stimulate tissue repair naturally—without drugs or surgery.

PRP is particularly beneficial for conditions involving tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and joints, such as osteoarthritis, rotator cuff injuries, and tennis elbow. For patients seeking non-invasive options before considering surgery, PRP can be a valuable part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

What Exactly Is PRP?

PRP is derived from a small sample of the patient’s own blood. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets—tiny cell fragments rich in growth factors—and separate them from red and white blood cells.

This platelet-rich layer contains 3–5 times more platelets than normal blood and is injected directly into the injured or affected area to support and enhance the natural healing process.

Why platelets matter:
Platelets play a crucial role in healing. They release growth factors and signalling proteins that:

• Attract stem cells to the injury site

• Reduce inflammation

• Stimulate collagen and tissue regeneration

• Support blood vessel formation (angiogenesis)

How PRP Works in Musculoskeletal Conditions

PRP promotes regeneration by delivering a concentrated boost of healing signals exactly where they’re needed. It’s particularly effective in chronic soft tissue injuries where natural healing has stalled or slowed.

Common uses in orthopaedics include:

• Tendinopathies: such as Achilles tendinitis or tennis elbow

• Ligament injuries: such as partial ACL tears or ankle sprains

• Joint conditions: especially early to moderate osteoarthritis

• Cartilage damage: including early chondral lesions or meniscal irritation

PRP does not replace tissue, but it enhances the body’s capacity to repair and remodel damaged structures. The effect is gradual—typically noticeable over weeks rather than days.

What to Expect During a PRP Procedure

The entire PRP treatment usually takes less than one hour and is performed as an outpatient procedure.

Step-by-step:

1. A small blood sample is drawn (usually 10–30ml).

2. The sample is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets.

3. The PRP is extracted into a syringe.

4. The PRP is injected under ultrasound guidance into the affected area.

Some patients may feel mild soreness at the injection site for a few days. This is part of the body’s natural inflammatory response and typically resolves quickly.

Safety and Effectiveness of PRP

PRP is considered very safe because it uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or infections. It is also non-surgical and can be repeated if needed.

Clinical studies have shown benefits in:

• Reducing pain and stiffness

• Improving function and joint mobility

• Slowing the progression of joint degeneration

• Enhancing recovery from soft tissue injuries

However, results can vary depending on the condition, the preparation method, and individual patient factors. At MSK Doctors, we use ultrasound-guided PRP delivery and advanced centrifuge protocols to ensure precision and quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is PRP the same as stem cell therapy?
No. PRP uses your platelets, while stem cell therapy involves harvesting and injecting stem cells. PRP supports regeneration by signalling and stimulating natural repair, whereas stem cells may differentiate into new tissue.

How many PRP sessions will I need?
This varies by condition. Some injuries respond well to a single injection, while others (e.g., chronic tendinopathies or arthritis) may require a series of 2–3 treatments spaced weeks apart.

Does PRP hurt?
Most patients tolerate the injection well. There may be mild discomfort or a temporary increase in soreness. This typically resolves within 48–72 hours.

When will I feel the effects?
Results are gradual. Pain reduction and improved function often become noticeable 2–6 weeks after the injection, with continued improvement over 3 months.

Can PRP help avoid surgery?
In some cases, yes. PRP can delay or reduce the need for surgical intervention—particularly in early-stage joint degeneration or partial tissue injuries.

Is PRP covered by the NHS or insurance?
Currently, PRP is not routinely available through the NHS and is considered a private treatment. Some private insurance plans may cover it in specific cases—check with your provider.