ACL Sprains
Partial ACL tears cause knee instability without complete rupture. PRP therapy enhances the ligament’s intrinsic healing capacity by delivering concentrated growth factors directly to the injury site. The treatment modulates the inflammatory environment to promote organised collagen deposition rather than scar tissue formation. Studies show PRP can improve ligament continuity on MRI and reduce anteroposterior laxity in Grade 1-2 sprains. The injection is performed under ultrasound guidance 5-10 days post-injury, allowing initial inflammation to subside but before scar tissue forms. Patients follow a specific neuromuscular rehabilitation protocol to guide proper fibre alignment.
PRP is particularly valuable for athletes wanting to avoid reconstruction or those with contraindications to surgery. The treatment can be combined with bracing and proprioceptive training for optimal results. Unlike surgery which requires lengthy recovery, PRP-treated patients often return to sport in 3-4 months. Recent protocols suggest combining PRP with hyaluronic acid may provide additional synovial protection during rehabilitation. Patients must commit to strict rehabilitation for successful outcomes.
PRP Treatment Process
MRI Confirmation
Documents tear percentage
PRP Preparation
PRP+HA
Intraarticular Injection
Liament targeting whole knee cartilage and ligament benefits
Healing and Pain Relief
Avoid exercise for 6-8 weeks during treatment. Begin physio/rehab therapy at 8 weeks with progressive loading
Treatment Eligibility
Ideal Candidates:
✔ Partial tears (<50% fibers)
✔ Grade 1-2 laxity
✔ Athletes avoiding surgery
Exclusions:
✘ Complete ACL tears
✘ Multi-ligament injuries
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ACL Sprain, and how is PRP thought to help in its treatment?
An Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) sprain refers to an injury to the ACL, one of the key ligaments in the knee that provides stability. ACL sprains are graded from 1 (mild stretch) to 3 (complete tear). Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own blood platelets, rich in growth factors, directly into the injured ACL. PRP treats ACL sprains, particularly partial tears, using concentrated growth factors that can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, potentially aiding in the repair and regeneration of the ligament fibres, reducing inflammation, and ultimately improving the stability and function of the knee. It aims to accelerate healing and potentially avoid or delay surgical intervention in carefully selected cases.
Am I a suitable candidate for PRP treatment for an ACL Sprain in Australia?
Suitability for PRP treatment for an ACL sprain depends significantly on the grade of the sprain and other factors. PRP is most commonly considered for partial ACL tears (Grade I or II) where some fibres of the ligament remain intact. It is generally not the primary treatment for complete (Grade III) ACL tears, which often require surgical reconstruction, though some research explores its use as an adjunct to surgery. Your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment to accurately diagnose the grade of your ACL sprain and assess the overall stability of your knee. They will discuss the potential benefits and limitations of PRP in your specific case, weighing it against other treatment options like physiotherapy or surgery.
What does a PRP injection for an ACL Sprain involve, and what's the typical recovery process like?
The procedure for a PRP injection for an ACL sprain typically involves drawing a small amount of blood from your arm. This blood is then processed in a specialised centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, creating the PRP solution. The concentrated PRP is then precisely injected into the injured ACL within the knee joint. You might experience some mild discomfort during and immediately after the injection. Post-injection, it’s common to have some temporary soreness, swelling, or stiffness in the knee for a few days. Your doctor will provide specific post-injection instructions, which usually involve a period of protected weight-bearing and reduced activity, followed by a very structured and intensive rehabilitation program, often with a physiotherapist. The recovery for an ACL sprain, even with PRP, is a lengthy process, typically taking several months (e.g., 6-12 months) as the ligament heals and strengthens.
How many PRP injections are usually needed for an ACL Sprain, and is it covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
The number of PRP injections needed for an ACL sprain can vary. While some protocols might involve a single injection, others may recommend a series of 2 to 3 injections, typically spaced a few weeks apart, especially for more significant partial tears or as part of a comprehensive non-surgical management plan. Your doctor will advise on the most appropriate number of injections for your specific ACL injury. In Australia, PRP treatments for ACL sprains (both for partial tears and as an adjunct to surgery) are generally not covered by Medicare. This means the cost of the PRP procedure itself is typically an out-of-pocket expense for the patient. Similarly, most private health insurance funds in Australia currently do not provide rebates for PRP therapy. It is always advisable to discuss the full costs involved and confirm any potential out-of-pocket expenses directly with your clinic and your private health fund prior to commencing treatment.
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