As regenerative medicine continues to grow in Australia, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is increasingly being used to support the recovery of joint pain, tendon injuries, ligament damage, and orthopaedic conditions. While many patients are interested in the potential benefits of PRP treatment, one of the most common questions remains: how much does PRP therapy cost in Australia?
In this article, we explain the typical price range for PRP injections, what factors influence costs, and how to approach this investment with clarity and confidence.
What Is PRP Therapy and What Are You Paying For?
PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your own blood, processing it in a centrifuge to isolate platelet-rich plasma, and injecting that concentrated plasma into the injured area. Platelets are known for their role in clotting, but they also contain growth factors that may support tissue healing.
Patients often consider PRP treatment for conditions like PRP for shoulder pain, PRP for knee pain, PRP for back pain, or tendon-related injuries such as PRP for Achilles tendinopathy or PRP for tennis elbow.
The cost of PRP therapy reflects both the clinical expertise involved and the biological technology required to process and administer the treatment properly.
Average Cost of PRP Therapy in Australia
The price of PRP injections in Australia generally ranges between AUD $400 to $900 per session. The cost may vary depending on the clinic’s location, the practitioner’s qualifications, the area being treated, and whether image-guided injection technology (e.g. ultrasound) is used.
Some patients require more than one session. For example:
- A single PRP injection: $400–$700
- A series of 2–3 injections: $800–$2,100 total
- PRP with image-guided delivery: Additional $100–$200 per session in some clinics
It’s important to remember that while PRP therapy may require an upfront investment, it is a non-surgical approach that avoids hospital fees and long recovery times associated with surgery.
To discuss the costs specific to your condition and treatment plan, you can book an appointment with our orthopaedic PRP clinic in Sydney.
Does Medicare or Private Health Insurance Cover PRP?
In most cases, PRP injections are not covered by Medicare in Australia, as it is considered a relatively new treatment in regenerative medicine Australia. Some private health insurance providers may reimburse part of the cost under extras policies, particularly if the treatment is administered by a registered provider and is part of a broader orthopaedic rehabilitation plan. You may also be able to claim part of the consultation fees or physiotherapy if included.
Before booking, it’s wise to check with your insurance provider regarding rebate eligibility and ask your PRP clinic for a treatment itemised invoice if needed.
What Are You Paying for With PRP?
The total cost of PRP treatment includes more than just the injection. It often covers:
- Pre-treatment consultation and assessment
- Blood draw and centrifuge processing
- Sterile medical equipment and single-use kits
- Practitioner time and skill in delivering the injection
- Image-guidance technology if used (e.g. ultrasound)
- Post-treatment monitoring and advice
This is especially important in PRP for joints or deeper anatomical structures, where accuracy and clinical training directly affect outcomes.
Is PRP a One-Time Cost?
Whether you need more than one session depends on the condition being treated. For instance:
- PRP for knee arthritis or PRP for osteoarthritis may require 2–3 sessions over a few months
- PRP for muscle strain or PRP for ligament tear may only need one session with physiotherapy
- Chronic issues like PRP for rotator cuff injury may benefit from a staged treatment plan
Some patients opt for annual or repeat injections as part of a maintenance plan, particularly when managing degenerative joint conditions.
How to Evaluate PRP Cost vs Value
While PRP may seem costly upfront, it’s important to consider the broader context of value:
- PRP vs cortisone injection: Cortisone may offer short-term relief, but PRP is designed to support longer-term tissue healing
- PRP vs traditional treatments: PRP avoids reliance on prolonged rest or oral medication, which may have limited benefit in chronic soft tissue injuries
- PRP vs surgery orthopaedic injuries: PRP provides a non-invasive option, reducing time off work or rehabilitation delays
Ask yourself: if this treatment reduces pain, improves mobility, and delays surgery, what is that worth in terms of quality of life?
