What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided injection treatment that uses your own concentrated platelets to support healing in injured or irritated tissues. The goal is to achieve high-concentration PRP, meaning platelets are processed and concentrated well above their normal level in the bloodstream before being precisely injected into the target area.

PRP therapy is used to help reduce pain and improve function in areas such as tendons, ligaments, and joints. It is commonly applied for chronic tendon or ligament pain, osteoarthritis, and overuse injuries that have not fully improved with standard conservative care.

How It Works

An initial draw of your own blood (60 mL or greater) is processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets. The platelet-rich layer is then collected and injected, using ultrasound guidance, directly into the affected tissue.

This process:

Delivers a concentrated source of platelets and natural growth signals to the area of injury
Supports local tissue healing and repair
Helps reduce irritation in chronically inflamed or degenerated tissues

Because every injection is performed under real-time ultrasound, placement is precise, targeting the exact structures that need treatment.

Role in Comprehensive Care

PRP is typically considered when symptoms persist despite conservative measures such as osteopathic manipulation, physical therapy, or activity modification. It can be integrated with these same therapies to optimize recovery and restore healthy movement patterns as the tissue heals.

PRP is not covered by insurance.

What to Expect

The procedure is performed in the office and usually takes about 45-60 minutes, including blood draw and preparation. Afterward, mild soreness or stiffness may occur for several days. Most patients can resume light activity soon after treatment. Results develop gradually over several weeks as the treated tissue heals and responds to the platelet-derived growth signals. Multiple sessions may be recommended for chronic or complex conditions.

Summary

PRP therapy uses high-concentration platelets from your own blood, delivered by ultrasound-guided injection, to support recovery in painful or weakened tissues. It offers a safe, conservative option for reducing pain and improving function in tendon, ligament, and joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. This procedure is not covered by insurance.