Platelet-Rich Plasma

The normal treatment for tendon pain is rest and physiotherapy. However, if these don’t work, PRP injections have been shown to promote healing and relief from pain in many cases.

Doctors don’t yet fully understand how PRP injections work. Platelets and plasma are believed to have natural healing properties that encourage the damaged tendons to repair and heal themselves. They may do this by stimulating the production of collagen, which is an important component of tendon and ligament tissue. Some experts also think that they contain proteins that alter a patient’s pain receptors and reduce pain sensation.

Platelet-rich plasma is obtained from the patient’s own blood. A sample is taken and placed in a centrifuge where it is spun at high speed. This spinning causes the blood to separate into its constituent layers. Red blood cells, which make up around 45%, are forced to the bottom of the vial. White blood cells and plasma – less than 10% of the sample – comprise the middle layer and platelet-poor plasma collects at the top (around 45%). A technician then extracts the necessary components to create a form of plasma with a higher concentration of platelets than is found in normal blood. This is then injected into the damaged tendon.

The treatment carries few risks because the PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood. Reported side effects are few particularly in comparison with other treatments such as cortisone injections, anti-inflammatories and minor surgery.

The advice from many healthcare professionals is to use PRP in conjunction with other non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes, such as physical therapy, weight loss and anti-inflammatories.

PRP doesn’t work for everyone but in some cases it can provide relief where other treatments fail. It is often recommended for sporting injuries. In one study, 230 patients with tennis elbow were treated with PRP. After 24 weeks, nearly 84% reported a reduction in pain of 25% or more.

Each year, PRP therapy enables thousands of patients to enjoy an active life, free of chronic pain.

Our patient-care process

• Once all of your diagnostic procedures are completed, we will be able to explain whether surgery is recommended.
• We will go through the procedures with you, covering the operation itself, the recovery process and the future prospects.
• Your orthopaedic surgeon will also explain the risks: these are small, but it is important for you to understand them.
• You can feel reassured that you will receive expert care from the start of the process, including your after-care.