Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Rotator cuff tendinopathy involves degeneration of shoulder tendons, particularly the supraspinatus, causing pain with overhead activities and nighttime discomfort. Chronic cases show poor vascularity and failed healing responses. PRP therapy delivers concentrated platelets directly to the tendon, stimulating angiogenesis and collagen reorganisation. The growth factors in PRP (VEGF, PDGF) enhance tissue repair while reducing inflammatory cytokines. Ultrasound-guided PRP injections allow precise placement in the critical zone of hypovascularity.
Patients typically experience progressive improvement over 3-6 months as tendon remodeling occurs. The treatment is most effective when combined with progressive eccentric strengthening to realign collagen fibers.
PRP Treatment Process
Diagnostic Ultrasound
Identifies tendon hypoechoic areas/tears
Double-Spin PRP Preparation
Higher platelet concentration for tendons
Peppering Technique
Multiple needle passes to stimulate healing
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-thickness tears (<50% thickness)
✔ Failed 3+ months of physical therapy
✔ Patients avoiding surgery
Exclusions:
✘ Full-thickness rotator cuff tears
✘ Advanced fatty infiltration
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, and how does PRP treat it?
Rotator cuff tendinopathy refers to the degeneration and irritation of one or more of the four tendons that make up the rotator cuff in the shoulder. These tendons are crucial for lifting and rotating your arm. The condition often causes pain, weakness, and restricted movement in the shoulder, especially with overhead activities. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own blood platelets, rich in growth factors, directly into the affected rotator cuff tendon. The goal is for these concentrated growth factors to stimulate and accelerate the body’s natural healing process, promoting the repair of damaged tendon tissue, reducing inflammation, and ultimately alleviating pain and improving shoulder function.
Am I a suitable candidate for PRP treatment for rotator cuff tendinopathy in Australia?
PRP treatment for rotator cuff tendinopathy is typically considered for individuals who have chronic shoulder pain (lasting several months or more) that hasn’t responded sufficiently to conservative management. This often includes treatments like rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications (if appropriate). Your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment, including a physical examination and often imaging such as ultrasound or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis, assess the extent of the tendinopathy (and rule out full-thickness tears that might require surgery), and determine if PRP is an appropriate option for your specific case. It’s generally considered for tendinopathy or partial-thickness tears rather than large, complete tears.
What does a PRP injection for rotator cuff tendinopathy involve, and what's the expected recovery like?
The procedure usually starts with a small amount of blood being drawn from your arm. This blood is then processed using a specialised centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, creating the PRP solution. The concentrated PRP is then precisely injected into the affected rotator cuff tendon, typically guided by ultrasound to ensure accurate placement. You might experience some mild discomfort during the injection itself. After the procedure, it’s common to have some localised soreness, swelling, or bruising in the shoulder for a few days. Your doctor will provide specific post-injection instructions, which usually include a period of relative rest or reduced activity for the shoulder, followed by a gradual and structured rehabilitation program, often with a physiotherapist. This rehabilitation is crucial for strengthening the shoulder muscles and optimising the long-term outcome. Significant improvement in pain and function often develops gradually over several weeks to months as the tendon heals and strengthens.
How many PRP injections are typically needed for rotator cuff tendinopathy, and is it covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
The number of PRP injections needed for rotator cuff tendinopathy can vary. While some patients may find relief with a single injection, many protocols suggest a series of 1 to 3 injections, often spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal and sustained results. Your treating doctor will advise on the most appropriate number of injections for your specific condition and how you respond to treatment. In Australia, PRP treatments for rotator cuff tendinopathy 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 the PRP therapy for this specific condition. It’s always advisable to discuss the full costs involved before proceeding with treatment.
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