What it is
A small blood sample is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets in plasma. The prepared product is injected into a selected target. PRP preparations are not all identical, which is one reason studies and outcomes vary.
Where Dr. Yang offers it
- Selected symptomatic knee osteoarthritis
- Rotator cuff, lateral or medial elbow, patellar, Achilles, and plantar fascia conditions
- Other selected chronic tendinopathies after diagnosis and appropriate conservative care
What the evidence says
Evidence is condition-specific. For knee osteoarthritis, the 2021 AAOS guideline says PRP may reduce pain and improve function but rates the recommendation as limited; the American College of Rheumatology recommends against it, partly because preparations and techniques are not standardized. Tendon evidence is mixed, and high-quality trials have not shown a clear benefit for Achilles tendinopathy. Offering PRP for a condition does not mean benefit is established or guaranteed.
What a procedure may involve
A consultation and assessment come first. If PRP is appropriate, blood collection, preparation, and injection are usually completed at a separate procedure appointment rather than the initial consultation. Ultrasound guidance is used for most procedures. The number and spacing of injections depends on the diagnosis and protocol; a fixed three-injection package is not universally required.
Recovery and results
Temporary pain, stiffness, bruising, or swelling can occur. Activity instructions depend on the target and procedure. Improvement, when it occurs, is usually assessed over weeks rather than immediately.
Who may not be a candidate
- Active infection at or near the injection site
- Some platelet, bleeding, or blood disorders
- Anticoagulant or antiplatelet use that has not been reviewed
- Other medical factors that make the procedure inappropriate
Risks and uncertainty
Pain flare, bleeding, bruising, infection, and injury to nearby structures are possible. A lack of meaningful improvement is also possible. Never stop a prescribed blood thinner unless the prescribing clinician tells you to.
This page is general education. Suitability and consent require an in-person assessment. Treatment outcomes are not guaranteed.
Frequently asked
Is PRP guaranteed to work?
No. Response varies with diagnosis, severity, individual factors, rehabilitation, and—where relevant—the preparation or product used.
Is ultrasound always used?
Dr. Yang uses ultrasound guidance for most procedures. Trigger finger injections and occasional shoulder or knee injections may be performed without ultrasound when clinically appropriate.
Can I book now?
Patients may submit a private MSK assessment request for clinic review. Consultation comes first; a procedure is not guaranteed and is usually a separate visit.
References
- AAOS 2021 knee osteoarthritis guideline
- AAOS PRP patient information
- ACR/Arthritis Foundation osteoarthritis guideline
- NICE guidance on autologous blood and PRP injections for tendinopathy
Evidence summary reviewed 21 August 2026.
Want to understand your treatment options?
Request an assessment with Dr. Yang. Suitability and any procedure are decided after consultation.