What Is PRP Therapy and Where Does It Fit in Your Treatment Plan

If you have been dealing with joint pain, tendinitis, or lingering injuries that do not seem to improve with standard care, you may have heard about Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, therapy. Many patients are curious about what it is, how it is done, and whether it might be an option before considering more invasive treatments.

At Form and Function Orthopaedics, we aim to give you clear, realistic information about all of your options, including biologic treatments that use your own blood.

What Is PRP

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. It is an autologous blood product that is prepared from a small sample of your own blood. Platelets are best known for their role in clotting, but they also contain biologic signaling molecules that play a role in regulating inflammation and supporting the body’s normal healing responses.

In typical blood, platelets make up only a small fraction of the total components. In PRP, these platelets are concentrated, creating a solution that can be injected into a specific joint, tendon, or ligament under guidance.

PRP for musculoskeletal conditions is considered investigational and is not FDA approved for specific orthopedic indications. However, it is used in many orthopedic practices as part of an evidence-informed, nonsurgical treatment strategy.

How Is PRP Prepared and Delivered

PRP is performed as an in-office procedure. A typical visit includes:

• A small blood draw, similar to what you would experience for routine laboratory testing
• Processing of the blood in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets
• Injection of the PRP into the area of concern, usually guided by ultrasound to improve accuracy

The entire process usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and most patients return to routine daily activities shortly afterward, with some temporary activity modifications.

Conditions Where PRP May Be Considered

PRP has been studied in multiple clinical and observational studies for a variety of orthopedic conditions. Evidence is still evolving, and results vary. PRP may be discussed as an option for:

• Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
• Tendinitis or partial thickness tendon symptoms
• Joint discomfort in the shoulder, hip, ankle, or wrist
• Certain ligament sprains
• Bursitis and soft tissue irritation

PRP is often considered when:

• Physical therapy and basic activity modification have not provided enough relief
• Patients wish to avoid or limit corticosteroid injections
• Imaging shows changes that are not yet severe enough to warrant surgery

What to Expect After a PRP Injection

After a PRP injection, it is common to experience temporary soreness or a feeling of fullness in the treated area for a few days. This is usually managed with relative rest and simple comfort measures.

In many cases, we recommend:

• Avoiding anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin for a period before and after the injection, since these may interfere with the desired biologic response
• Using acetaminophen if needed for discomfort, unless otherwise advised
• Limiting high-impact or intense activity for a short period, then gradually resuming exercise or sport under guidance

Some patients notice changes within several weeks, while for others it may take longer. Improvements, when they occur, can sometimes last many months. Responses are individualized and cannot be guaranteed.

Is PRP Safe

Because PRP is prepared from your own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction to a foreign product. As with any injection, potential risks include temporary pain, swelling, bleeding, or infection at the injection site, although serious complications are uncommon.

PRP may not be appropriate for everyone. It may be avoided or used cautiously if you:

• Have a bleeding disorder
• Are on certain blood-thinning medications
• Have uncontrolled autoimmune disease
• Have active cancer, severe anemia, or an active infection

These factors are reviewed during consultation so that safety and appropriateness can be carefully assessed.

Does Insurance Cover PRP

At present, most insurance plans in the United States do not cover PRP therapy for orthopedic conditions. This means that PRP is usually an out-of-pocket procedure.

At Form and Function Orthopaedics, we provide clear information about costs in advance and can discuss payment options to help you decide whether PRP fits your overall care plan and budget.

Is PRP Right for You

PRP is one tool among many. It is not a cure for arthritis or a replacement for surgery in advanced conditions, but it may play a helpful role in selected cases as part of a layered, nonsurgical strategy.

If you are considering PRP because you want to delay surgery, reduce pain, or support your ability to stay active, the first step is a detailed evaluation. We will review your symptoms, imaging, activity demands, and goals, and then discuss whether PRP or another option is the best fit.

To explore whether PRP therapy is appropriate for you, visit f2ortho.com or call our office to schedule a consultation.

We serve patients throughout Portland, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Tigard, and the surrounding communities.