Am I a candidate for this? (What are the general indications?)

You may be a good candidate for PRP therapy if you are experiencing joint pain, tendon or ligament injuries, or chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not responded fully to rest, physical therapy, or medications. PRP is often considered for patients with osteoarthritis, tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries, tennis or golfer’s elbow, knee pain, and certain sports injuries.

Because PRP uses your body’s own platelets to stimulate healing, it can be an excellent option if you are looking for a more natural alternative to surgery or long-term medication use. However, PRP may not be appropriate if you have certain blood disorders, active infections, or severe arthritis that requires surgical treatment. A consultation with our team will help determine if PRP is the right next step for you.

What should I expect before, during, and after this? (Preparation, the procedure itself, recovery time, potential side effects)

Before: You will meet with your physician to review your condition, medical history, and goals. In most cases, you will be advised to avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) for several days before the procedure, since these can interfere with platelet activity.

During: A small sample of your blood is drawn and processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. The PRP is then carefully injected into the injured or painful area using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precision. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes and is performed in our office.

After: You may experience mild soreness or swelling at the injection site for a few days. Unlike steroid injections, the goal of PRP is to promote long-term healing, so improvement is usually gradual, often developing over several weeks to months. Most patients can return to light activity quickly, with a tailored plan for resuming exercise or therapy.

Potential side effects: Since PRP uses your own blood, the risk of reaction is very low. Side effects are typically limited to temporary discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Serious complications are rare but will be reviewed with you before the procedure, so you can make an informed decision.