PRP Therapy: A Non-Surgical Path to Joint Health

If you have a history of joint injuries, degenerative changes in your knees or other joints, and are looking for an alternative to painkillers or are hesitant to undergo surgery — PRP therapy may be worth considering.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a form of cellular therapy widely used in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and outpatient care. It involves using a concentrate of your own blood plasma, enriched with platelets. This plasma contains growth factors that help reduce inflammation and pain, while stimulating tissue repair. The therapy has gained popularity due to its ability to activate the body’s natural regeneration processes.

This platelet-based therapy is particularly effective for injuries and degenerative conditions of the musculoskeletal system. It’s important to understand that PRP and plasma lifting are not the same: while both use blood plasma, PRP contains a significantly higher concentration of platelets and growth factors. Unlike plasma lifting, which is used in aesthetic medicine, PRP is designed to restore joints, ligaments, and tendons.

PRP therapy can be part of autologous plasma treatment protocols, including rehabilitation after injuries, surgeries, and chronic inflammation. By injecting platelet-rich plasma, the body's own regenerative processes are naturally activated — making the method both safe and effective.

Indications for PRP Therapy

• Joint injuries
• Early-stage osteoarthritis
• Pain, swelling, and reduced mobility
• Alternative treatment when NSAIDs or corticosteroids are contraindicated
• A way to delay surgical intervention
• Tendon and ligament injuries
• Tendinitis: tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, rotator cuff injury, jumper’s knee, Achilles tendinopathy
• Partial ligament tears, chronic overuse injuries
• Postoperative recovery (e.g., after arthroscopy)
• Sports and occupational injuries
• Slow-healing tissue damage
• Chronic joint pain in athletes and active individuals

PRP is also used to treat chronic joint fatigue, age-related tissue decline, and as supportive therapy in elderly patients. Beyond joints, it can aid in treating spinal, fascial, and various soft tissue conditions.

Moreover, autologous plasma therapy is applied in other medical fields — including dermatology, dentistry, and gynecology — as part of regenerative medicine.

Contraindications for PRP Therapy

• Local infection at the injection site
• Oncological or hematological diseases
• Severe autoimmune disorders
• Stage IV osteoarthritis
• Complete rupture of ligaments or tendons (requires surgery)
• Active viral illness, severe cold, or acute infection at the time of procedure
• Severe anemia or thrombocytopenia

PRP is only administered after a thorough clinical examination and lab testing.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

PRP therapy is conducted on an outpatient basis. The process starts with drawing blood from the patient — typically between 15 and 60 ml, depending on the treatment area. The blood is centrifuged to isolate platelet-rich plasma, which is then injected directly into the affected area under ultrasound guidance.

The full session takes about 30 minutes, including blood draw, preparation, and injection. Accurate localization and dosage are critical and determined by the physician. Treatment is often carried out in several sessions spaced over time. Discomfort during injection is minimal, though mild soreness may persist for a few days afterward.

Higher platelet concentrations typically yield better outcomes — a finding supported by recent clinical reviews comparing different PRP preparation techniques. The mechanism of action is based on platelet activation and release of growth factors that promote tissue healing, enhance cell nutrition, and restore joint structure. Due to these effects, PRP therapy is widely recognized in international orthopedic practice and supported by numerous scientific publications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PRP be performed during a flare-up or illness?

No. PRP should not be administered during infections, fever, or acute inflammation.

How much does the procedure cost?

The price depends on the type of PRP used, the equipment, blood volume required, and number of sessions. Please contact our clinic directly for details.

Where can I receive PRP therapy?

The procedure must be performed in a licensed medical facility under sterile conditions with ultrasound guidance. Our specialists will assess your condition and determine if PRP is right for you.

Is PRP the same as plasma therapy?

“Plasma therapy” is a broader term, often referring to cosmetic uses. PRP is a highly concentrated form used in medical treatment, particularly in orthopedics and sports medicine. Plasma lifting is more common in aesthetic dermatology.

PRP Is Not a Miracle — But It’s a Strong Alternative

While PRP therapy won’t fully reverse joint damage, it can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and delay or even avoid surgery. In many cases, it has helped patients return to active lives without the need for invasive procedures.

Wondering if PRP therapy is right for you?

Schedule a consultation with our team today.