Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) relies on platelets (cell fragments found in blood) to improve tissue function.  Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections can give long lasting reduction in pain associated with range of degenerative joint and tendon problems such as joint osteoarthritis and degenerative tendinopathies.

PRP (platelet rich plasma) is a process where blood is taken from the patient and spun very quickly using a piece of equipment known as a centrifuge. This spinning causes the blood to separate into a range of parts depending upon weight.  A specific part of the separated blood is plasma which is rich in platelets. Platelets in the body help blood clot when there is an injury and the cytokines and growth factors that are in platelets can help repair injuries and encourage healing. 

Many years of research have consistently demonstrated that this enriched plasma has a regenerative effect on the tissues of the body by triggering natural healing processes. PRP injections are given under the guidance of ultrasound to the area (normally a joint or tendon) of pain and degeneration.

PRP injections are often recommended for people with osteoarthritis of the knees. They can also be used in osteoarthritis and a range of other soft tissue conditions which involve pain and degenerative changes seen on scans.