Orthopedic Injection Therapy Series: PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections
Orthopedic injections, like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Corticosteroids, Hyaluronic Acid, and Prolotherapy can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in musculoskeletal conditions without the risks and long recovery time associated with surgery.
These injections provide a minimally invasive option for conditions like osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, and ligament sprains, where conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications may not provide sufficient relief. By addressing symptoms and promoting healing, these orthopedic injections offer patients a chance to restore function and mobility before resorting to more invasive surgical procedures. They are most beneficial when paired with physical therapy, such as physiotherapy, osteopathy, or chiropractic care.
In our Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) series we are looking more closely at this type of orthopedic injection. PRP has been gaining more traction in the media, especially with athletes looking to return to competition quicker, and to potentially avoid surgery for certain injuries. PRP has a role in both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
What is PRP?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment used to promote healing and reduce inflammation in musculoskeletal conditions. PRP is derived from a patient’s own blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets. These platelets are believed to promote growth factors and proteins that aid in tissue repair and accelerate healing by enhancing collagen production, reducing pain, and stimulating cell regeneration.
What conditions does it treat?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treats a variety of acute and chronic conditions. Here are a few examples:
Lower Extremity
Plantar Fasciitis
Turf Toe
Ankle & Toe Osteoarthritis
Achilles Tendinitis/Tendinopathy
Patellar Tendinitis/Tendinopathy
Meniscal Injuries
Knee Arthritis
Hamstring Tendinitis/Tendinopathy/Strain
Hip Osteoarthritis
Groin Strain
Upper Extremity
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Trigger Finger/Thumb
Hand, Finger & Wrist Arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Rotator cuff Tendinitis/Tear/Tendinopathy
Shoulder Arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)
Elbow Arthritis/Osteoarthritis
Spinal
Low Back Pain & Instability
Neck Pain & Instability
SI (Sacroiliac) Joint Pain & Instability
Spinal Arthritis/Osteoarthritis including Facet
Degenerative Disc Disease
Herniated/Bulging Disc
Cervical & Lumbar Radiculopathy
Other Conditions
Calcific Tendinitis/Tendinopathy
TMJ Disorder
Ganglion Cysts
What is the research?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections have garnered significant attention in orthopedic medicine for their potential to enhance healing in various musculoskeletal conditions.
Here are a couple of examples:
Knee Osteoarthritis:
Research indicates that PRP injections can alleviate pain and improve function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. A meta-analysis concluded that PRP may reduce symptoms associated with this condition. 1
Chronic Tendon Injuries:
PRP has shown promise in treating chronic tendon injuries, such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). Studies have demonstrated that PRP can effectively improve symptoms for up to 12 months, with the most significant improvement at four months.2
While insurance companies still see PRP as being experimental, it is a very well-studied treatment and the evidence showing its efficacy continues to grow each year. There are numerous research papers, case studies, and articles advocating PRP therapy for the management of chronic low back pain, and injuries involving rotator cuff, hamstring tears, plantar fasciitis, and meniscus tears.
What are the risks?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections are generally considered safe since they use the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or infections. However, there are still potential risks, including:
Pain and Swelling:
Some patients experience temporary discomfort, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site due to an inflammatory response. Patients are given a post-care handout to manage this inflammatory response as well as recommended a sling, boot, or crutch if necessary. Expect a few days of downtime as well as gradual return to activity.
Infection:
Though rare, any injection carries a small risk of infection.
No Guaranteed Results:
PRP effectiveness varies among individuals, and some may not experience significant improvement. The goal after one injection is to significantly improve or eliminate pain and to return to normal function. Some patients require more than one PRP injection. This will be evaluated six weeks after the procedure has been performed.
Tissue or Nerve Damage:
If the injection is not placed correctly, there is a minor risk of tissue irritation or nerve injury. To minimize this risk further, all orthopedic injections at Qi Integrated Health are done under ultrasound-guidance
Cost and Accessibility:
While PRP treatments have existed for many years, many insurance companies still consider this treatment experimental and deny coverage. All fees will be discussed with the practitioner to review options to increase accessibility.
PRP for Pain Relief at Qi Integrated Health
Here at Qi Integrated Health Clinic we pride ourselves in using the Arthrex Angel System which allows us to customize and tailor the cellular concentrations for any area of concern. We also use ultrasound guidance for all orthopedic injections in the clinic for increased safety and efficacy. If you are interested in PRP injections or wondering how this orthopedic injection can benefit you, book a complimentary alignment call or visit with Dr. Shauna Fraser, ND.
Meet Dr Shauna Fraser, ND
Dr. Shauna Fraser, ND, brings her expertise in sports and performance medicine to her work with orthopedic injection therapies like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). With specialized training in treating athletic injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, and exercise prescription, she is passionate about helping patients restore function and mobility. Her background in sports nutrition and hands-on experience in evidence-based holistic treatments allow her to create personalized, integrative approaches for injury recovery and pain management. Through PRP therapy, Dr. Shauna, ND, aims to support patients—whether athletes or individuals with chronic pain—on their journey to optimal healing and performance.
