TL;DR Quick answer
An injection prepared from your own blood for selected tendon and joint conditions. It is commonly used for knee pain, tennis elbow and heel pain. The procedure takes about 30–45 minutes and is day care. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
Platelet-rich plasma is made by spinning a sample of your blood to concentrate the platelets. It is injected into an injured tendon or joint, such as in tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis or knee osteoarthritis. The evidence is still developing for some uses, and the doctor will discuss whether it suits you.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 30–45 minutes |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Guidance | Ultrasound |
| Hospital stay | Day care, home the same day |
| Uses | Your own blood |
| Commonly used for | Knee Pain, Tennis Elbow, Heel Pain |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- Uses your own blood
- Ultrasound-guided placement
- Day-care procedure
- May support tendon and joint healing
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
A small blood sample is taken and processed. The concentrated platelets are then injected into the target area, often under ultrasound guidance.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Pain at the injection site for a few days is common. Infection is rare because your own blood is used. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth PRP works the same for everyone.
Fact Results vary and the evidence is still developing for some uses. Your doctor will explain whether it is likely to help you.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Knee Pain | Long-standing knee pain from arthritis or other causes that limits walking and daily activity. | Pain on walking, climbing stairs or standing up; stiffness after rest |
| Tennis Elbow | Pain on the outer side of the elbow from overloaded forearm tendons. | Pain on the outer elbow; pain when gripping, lifting or turning a handle |
| Heel Pain | Heel pain, often worst with the first steps in the morning, usually from plantar fasciitis. | Pain under the heel; worse with first steps after rest |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.