Ultrasound-guided procedure

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

A targeted treatment that uses a concentrate of your own blood to support tissue healing — delivered under ultrasound guidance, as one part of a complete management plan led by our Sport & Exercise Physicians.

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Sport & Exercise Physician performing an ultrasound-guided knee injection in clinic

What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a blood product prepared from a small sample of your own blood, concentrated to contain a high number of platelets. Platelets release a range of growth factors thought to support tissue healing, and the white blood cells within PRP may also provide anti-inflammatory and anti-infective effects. Our physicians use PRP as an adjunct to rehabilitation — not a stand-alone cure.

What is the evidence for PRP?

The evidence for PRP is still developing, and we think it is important to be honest about that. There is reasonable-quality evidence supporting its use in early knee osteoarthritis — notably more than exists for arthroscopic (“keyhole”) knee surgery — and studies suggest PRP outperforms some other injections for knee arthritis. For tendon problems such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, rotator cuff disorders and jumper’s knee, PRP does not appear to delay recovery or increase recurrence the way corticosteroid injections can.

That said, much of the overall PRP literature carries a high risk of bias, and there are no reliable predictors of who will respond. The sensible approach is to use PRP judiciously, within a plan aimed at realistic functional goals. You can read our physician’s longer take in the blog PRP in sports medicine: where does it stand?

When is PRP used?

PRP is used to support healing in tissues that repair slowly. Higher white-cell preparations appear better suited to soft-tissue and tendon problems, while repeated lower white-cell preparations are generally preferred for joint pain. Conditions where PRP may help include:

PRP is one of several ultrasound-guided injection options we offer, and is most effective when combined with optimised diet, load management and a structured exercise program.

The PRP process

The whole appointment takes about 20–30 minutes:

The PRP process in four steps: collect blood, separate the platelets, extract platelet-rich plasma, and inject the area under ultrasound guidance

Local anaesthetic may be used to numb the area first, but it is never mixed into the same syringe as the PRP, as this can damage the platelets. Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. Celebrex, Mobic, Voltaren, ibuprofen) should be stopped 3 days before and for 2 days after the injection, as they impair platelet function. Plan to rest the injected area for 2–3 days — depending on the site, you may need a lift to your appointment or a sling or boot.

How much does PRP cost?

When performed by a Sport & Exercise Physician, the out-of-pocket cost depends on the type of PRP used and the number of injections recommended — a course of three is common for stubborn problems. Our physicians provide a holistic service that addresses the whole problem, not just the injection. See our fees page for current details.

Your treatment, step by step

Preparing for treatment

You will be fully counselled so that informed consent is obtained and the treatment is understood. Before treatment, your doctor will:

  • Take your medical history and examine you
  • Possibly arrange tests to confirm PRP is suitable
  • Ask whether you take aspirin or blood-thinning medication — please tell us, whether you are booked for treatment or just a consultation
  • Advise you on stopping anti-inflammatory medications

On the day

  • Avoid large amounts of alcohol for at least 24 hours beforehand
  • No anti-inflammatory medications for 72 hours before (e.g. ibuprofen)
  • Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing

During treatment

The procedure takes only a few minutes in the consulting room. You will sit or lie down while the injection is given. A brief burning or pinching sensation that settles quickly is normal. Ultrasound guidance is used throughout for accurate, safe needle placement.

After treatment

  • You will receive clear written post-injection instructions
  • Most patients can walk, drive and head home without issue
  • Rest the injected area for the first day, then ease back into normal activity
  • Avoid strenuous activity such as heavy lifting for about a week
  • For local soreness, simple pain relief and a cold compress help
Ultrasound-guided injection of the elbow performed under real-time imaging

What are the risks?

The main risks are the same as for any injection: an estimated 1 in 20,000 chance of infection or significant bleeding, minimised by sterile technique and ultrasound guidance. About 5% of patients experience a flare of pain for 24–48 hours, which is usually well managed with simple pain relief and rest. PRP is administered cautiously in people with diabetes; your physician will discuss your individual risks with you.

Frequently asked questions

What is injected?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma enriched with a concentrated source of your own platelets. PRP contains several growth factors and other cytokines that can stimulate the healing of bone and soft tissue.

Does it hurt?

Everyone’s pain threshold is different, but injections are relatively painless. Most people describe a quick prick or slight pinch that lasts only a few seconds. Treatment usually requires no anaesthetic, although a topical anaesthetic can be used if needed.

What if I am pregnant?

Injectable treatments are not recommended during pregnancy, as the effects on the fetus are uncertain. For more information, please call us and ask to speak with one of our medically-trained doctors or nurses. MotherSafe — a free telephone service for women in NSW, based at the Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick — can also provide advice.

What if I am under 18?

We do not treat anyone under the age of 18 with injectables without a parent or guardian present to discuss and approve the treatment.

How much will I need?

The right dose is determined at your consultation. A course of three injections is generally recommended for stubborn (recalcitrant) problems. Request an Appointment to discuss what is right for you.

Can I bring my child?

As much as we love children, for health and safety reasons children cannot accompany patients in the treatment rooms or be supervised by staff. Thank you for your understanding.

What are the possible risks or complications of PRP injections?

PRP should be administered cautiously, particularly in people with diabetes. The main concern is the introduction of infection, which is extremely low at less than 1 in 10,000. There are very few risks overall; potential complications include:

  • Increased pain at the injection site
  • Infection
  • Damage to adjacent nerves, veins or tissue from improper administration (minimised by the ultrasound guidance used at this practice)
  • Formation of scar tissue
What is recovery like after PRP injections?

There is usually no significant recovery time. For the first 5 days, we ask you to avoid exercising the part of the body that has been injected. Local soreness settles quickly. Your doctor may arrange a follow-up at around three months. Some areas need stricter rest for longer depending on the condition being treated — your doctor will discuss this with you before the injection.

Is PRP right for you?

PRP works best for the right problem in the right patient. The first step is an assessment with one of our Sport & Exercise Physicians to confirm whether it suits your goals.

Request an Appointment Contact the clinic

This page provides general information about PRP and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Suitability, benefits and risks vary between patients and conditions, and will be discussed with you at your consultation. Progressive Sports Medicine, 121 Norton Street, Leichhardt NSW 2040.

Reference List


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