Our orthopaedic experts use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to relieve your joint pain without surgery.

PRP is made by concentrating the platelets in your blood and uses your own cells to support healing and reduce inflammation. These platelets contain more than 1,500 proteins that help repair damaged tissue.

At MU Health Care, we use PRP injections to treat soft tissue injuries and early arthritis. Your care team may recommend PRP as part of a personalized plan to reduce pain, support recovery and, in some cases, delay or avoid surgery.

Our Approach to PRP Treatment

PRP is one of several nonsurgical options we may recommend for managing joint or soft tissue pain — especially when symptoms haven’t improved with rest, therapy or medication.

This treatment uses a concentrated form of your own platelets to support healing in areas that typically recover slowly, such as ligaments, tendons or joint surfaces. 

Depending on your condition and goals, PRP may be part of a personalized care plan to:

  • Improve function and mobility
  • Reduce inflammation in joints or soft tissues
  • Relieve pain caused by overuse, injury or early arthritis

Conditions We Treat with PRP

We may include PRP in your treatment plan for:

  • Early osteoarthritis (often in the knee or other joints)
  • Muscle injuries and tears
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Post-surgical repair
  • Rotator cuff and meniscal injuries
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Sprains and minor fractures
  • Tendinitis
  • Tendon or ligament injuries

Am I a Candidate for PRP?

PRP may be an option if you:

  • Are hoping to delay or avoid surgery for arthritis
  • Have joint or soft tissue pain that hasn’t improved with rest, therapy or medication
  • Have a tendon or ligament injury that’s healing slowly
  • Want to support recovery after orthopaedic surgery

PRP is not right for everyone. We may not recommend it if you have advanced arthritis, an active infection, certain blood disorders or a history of some cancers.

Our Approach to PRP Injections

PRP injections help support healing without surgery. We’ll walk you through all your options so you can decide if PRP is right for you.

Your First Visit

At your first appointment, we take the time to understand your symptoms, goals and overall health. Your first visit may include:

  • A conversation about whether PRP may help and what to expect
  • A physical exam to evaluate the affected area
  • A review of your medical history and previous treatments
  • Imaging or other tests, such as an X-ray or MRI

Our Specialists

Our orthopaedic and sports medicine specialists provide PRP injections. Depending on your needs, you may see:

We work closely with physical therapists and surgeons to make sure your care stays connected — especially if you’re recovering from an injury or procedure.

Other Treatments We May Recommend With PRP

We may recommend combining PRP with other nonsurgical treatments to support your recovery, such as:

  • Injection therapy, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid
  • Medications to reduce inflammation
  • Physical therapy to improve strength and function
  • Rest or activity modifications to protect the area as it heals

What to Expect with PRP Treatment

Most visits for PRP treatment take less than an hour, and you’ll go home the same day. 

PRP injections may be covered by insurance, but not all plans include them. Our patient navigators can help check with your insurance provider ahead of time so you understand your out-of-pocket costs.

On the Day of Your Injection

PRP treatment begins with a small sample of your blood. We use a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, then inject that solution into the painful or injured area.

Here’s what to expect during your visit:

  • Blood is drawn and processed on-site
  • Platelet-rich plasma is injected into the affected area
  • Ultrasound may guide the injection
  • You can go home the same day

After Your Injection

It’s normal to feel some soreness or swelling for up to a week. Your care team will give you instructions to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of infection.

You may also:

  • Modify activities or rest for a few days
  • Start or continue physical therapy
  • Use ice or over-the-counter pain relief

Most people notice improvement within four to six weeks. Some conditions may need more than one injection for the best results.