Is PRP Therapy Worth Asking About?
What you should know about platelet-rich plasma therapy before scheduling a consultation.
Orthopedic surgeon Jon Blake, DO, talks with patient Bonnie Austin after PRP therapy at Bates County Memorial Hospital.
If you’ve been living with joint pain or a lingering orthopedic injury, you may have heard about platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, therapy. While PRP has received growing attention in recent years, you may wonder whether it’s something you should explore, or if it’s even appropriate for your condition.
PRP therapy uses a concentrated portion of your own blood to support the body’s natural healing response. In orthopedic care, it may be considered for certain conditions when conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rest, or medications have not provided enough relief.
It’s important to understand that PRP is not a cure-all and is not recommended for every diagnosis. Outcomes can vary, and the decision to use PRP depends on factors such as the condition being treated, prior therapies, and individual health considerations.
At Bates County Memorial Hospital, PRP therapy is offered through our orthopedic clinics as one option among many. A consultation is the first step, allowing you to talk with an orthopedic provider about your symptoms, review imaging or prior treatments, and determine whether PRP may be a reasonable option to consider.
When PRP is generally not recommended
PRP therapy is typically not recommended for:
- Advanced joint damage where surgery is clearly indicated
- Complete tendon or ligament tears that require surgical repair
- Conditions caused primarily by nerve compression, such as certain spine-related pain
- Active infections, open wounds, or systemic inflammatory conditions
- Certain blood or platelet disorders, which your provider would review
These situations often require different treatment approaches, which is why a clinical evaluation is important.
When PRP may be worth asking about
PRP may be worth discussing with your provider if you have:
- Ongoing tendon or ligament pain that has not improved with rest, physical therapy, or other conservative care
- Mild to moderate osteoarthritis with persistent symptoms
- Repetitive-use injuries such as tennis elbow or jumper’s knee
- Muscle or joint injuries where healing appears to have stalled
- Pain that limits activity but has not yet reached the point of surgery
PRP is typically considered after conservative care and before surgery, depending on the condition.
Why a consultation still matters
Even if PRP sounds like a possible fit, a consultation is essential. During a visit, your provider will review:
- Imaging results
- Prior treatments
- Activity level and goals
Your provider will discuss whether PRP is appropriate for your condition before any treatment is scheduled.
By offering PRP locally, BCMH is helping patients explore specialized orthopedic treatment options close to home, without the need to travel long distances for care.
PRP Therapy Process
Step 1: Blood draw
Your PRP treatment begins with a simple blood draw, similar to routine lab work.
Step 2: Preparing the PRP
Your blood is processed using specialized equipment called a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins the blood to separate it into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. This step typically takes about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Concentrating the platelets
After processing, the platelet-rich portion of your blood is carefully extracted. This concentrated plasma contains the platelets used in PRP therapy.
Step 4: Injection
The platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the area being treated by your orthopedic provider.
Step 5: After your treatment
Before you leave, your provider and care team will review what to expect after your injection and provide guidance to support your recovery.
Learn more about PRP Therapy at BCMH or contact BCMH Orthopedic Clinics at 660-200-7006.
