Wondering how long platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections last? Multiple factors, including the specific condition treated and post-treatment care, can influence the duration. Read on to learn more about PRP therapy and what to expect from this treatment. 

• PRP therapy uses the body’s own blood to enhance healing through concentrated platelets, helping to manage conditions like osteoarthritis and tendon injuries.
• For conditions such as osteoarthritis, the effects of PRP injections typically last between 9 to 12 months. However, some patients experience relief for up to two years. 
• PRP therapy can offer benefits such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved tissue regeneration, making it a valuable option in regenerative medicine.

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy utilizes the body’s own blood to promote recovery and support long-term healing. This innovative treatment leverages the natural healing properties of human platelets, which are rich in a number of tissue growth factors. Understanding how PRP therapy works provides insight into why this treatment can be effective for a range of conditions.

The typical PRP process includes:

• Drawing a blood sample from the patient
• Processing the sample to concentrate the platelets
• Injecting the concentrated platelets into the site of injury to facilitate healing

This technique is used for a variety of conditions in the shoulder, the knee, and other regions. In the following subsections, we’ll take a look at each step of the PRP process more closely. 

PRP therapy begins with a standard blood draw, typically taking 20 milliliters from the patient’s arm. This sample contains red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

The collected blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins the sample to separate and concentrate the platelets. These platelets are rich in growth factors that support healing and tissue repair. This concentrated solution is what can make PRP effective for many conditions. Once prepared, the PRP is ready for injection into the targeted area. 

The final step involves injecting the concentrated platelets directly into the site of injury or damage. Ultrasound imaging may be used in specific cases to ensure the precise placement of the PRP.

Some conditions can benefit from a single injection of PRP, while some more difficult conditions respond better by doing a series of 2 to 3 injections. Whether treating a sports injury or a chronic condition, PRP can deliver healing growth factors directly to damaged tissues. The injected platelets help stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

One of the most appealing aspects of PRP therapy is its potential for long-lasting effects. While outcomes vary, many patients receiving treatment for arthritis experience benefits for a year or longer. Other conditions, such as ligament or tendon injuries the goal is to promote long term healing.

The effectiveness and longevity of PRP therapy depend on several individual factors, including:

• The body’s response to the treatment
• The severity and type of the condition treated
• Post-treatment care

These individual factors highlight the personalized nature of PRP therapy.

PRP therapy has been shown to enhance tissue repair and recovery using the body’s self-healing properties. The primary aim of PRP therapy is to amplify the body’s natural healing processes.

Many patients experience reduced pain after PRP injections. This is largely due to the growth factors released during the injection, which may reduce inflammation and support tissue repair. 

PRP therapy also plays a role in reducing inflammation. This reduction in inflammation supports the body in beginning the natural healing process more efficiently, even in cases of mild pain. 

PRP injections may also promote tissue regeneration. The growth factors in platelets can stimulate the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues, leading to improved joint function and sustainable relief from pain.

PRP therapy is versatile and commonly used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal issues and injuries. It has been shown to be particularly effective in treating arthritis.  PRP reduces inflammation, slows down cartilage damage and reduces swelling which improves mobility and comfort. 

For chronic tendon injuries, PRP  supports tissue repair and pain reduction. Patients often report greater mobility and function after treatment. Athletes in particular may use PRP therapy to accelerate healing from muscle strains, ligament sprains, and tendon injuries. By stimulating tissue repair, PRP may reduce recovery time and help athletes return to their activities sooner. PRP has been shown to decrease the time to return to play when utilized to treat knee medial collateral ligament and hamstring injuries.

Understanding what to expect can help patients feel more confident going into PRP therapy. From the initial consultation to the recovery phase, each step is designed to ensure the best possible outcomes.

The initial consultation is an important first step in determining if a patient is a good candidate for PRP therapy. During this consultation, the patient’s medical history and the specific condition being treated will be evaluated. I will discuss the potential risks and benefits of PRP therapy and address any concerns or questions the patient may have, helping them make informed decisions about their treatment plan.

This full process can usually be completed in one visit. Depending on the condition, patients may repeat this process two or three times, typically spaced one to four weeks apart.

I always provide an honest opinion as to whether I believe the patient would benefit.  It is not uncommon for me to tell patients that their arthritis is simply to advanced for PRP to be effective.

Patients may begin to notice improvements a few weeks to a few months after treatment. The recovery timeline varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient’s individual healing response.

Specific restrictions after treatment vary depending on condition being treated. I have modified them based on 16+ years of experience in delivering these treatments.  For arthritis, patients may return to normal life and low impact exercise immediately.  It is recommended to avoid high impact activities for 4-6 weeks post treatment.

For conditions such as tendon or ligament injuries, it is recommended to avoid significant stress to area (ie. lifting weights) for 4-6 weeks. 

Sometimes, maintenance injections may be recommended to ensure continued recovery and improvement.

In summary, PRP therapy is a promising treatment that leverages the body’s natural healing processes with a goal of providing long-lasting relief from pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue regeneration. By understanding how PRP therapy works, its benefits, and what to expect during treatment, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare. With proper follow-up and care, PRP injections may offer meaningful benefits.