Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that uses the body’s own blood-derived growth factors to support tissue healing and recovery. With growing interest in regenerative medicine across Australia, many patients are now asking: what conditions does PRP treat, and how effective is it for different orthopaedic injuries?
This article offers a comprehensive overview of PRP for tendons, joints, ligaments, muscles, and other orthopaedic applications—helping you make informed choices about your treatment path.
How Does PRP Therapy Work in Orthopaedics?
PRP therapy begins with a simple blood draw, followed by a centrifuge process to isolate platelet-rich plasma. This concentrated plasma contains growth factors that may support the repair of damaged tissue. When injected into an injured area—such as a tendon, joint, or ligament—PRP may help stimulate local healing processes.
Orthopaedic PRP injections are used to address chronic pain, soft tissue injuries, and early degenerative conditions. The therapy offers a minimally invasive option for those seeking alternatives to surgery or prolonged rest.
To discuss your condition and whether PRP is suitable, you can book an appointment with our orthopaedic PRP clinic in Sydney.
Common Conditions Treated with PRP Therapy
1. PRP for Tendon Injuries
Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. They are prone to overuse and chronic injury, particularly in active individuals or older adults.
Conditions that may be managed with PRP for tendons include:
- PRP for Achilles tendinopathy
- PRP for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- PRP for golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- PRP for rotator cuff injury
- PRP for patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
These conditions often involve small tears or degeneration within the tendon. PRP injections aim to encourage healing and reduce inflammation.
2. PRP for Ligament Tears
Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to each other and help stabilise joints. PRP for ligament tears is sometimes used for mild to moderate sprains that don’t require surgical repair.
Common examples:
- PRP for ligament tear in the knee (MCL or partial ACL)
- PRP for ankle sprains
- PRP for wrist or elbow instability
These injuries may benefit from targeted PRP to support collagen regeneration and improve joint stability.
3. PRP for Joint Pain and Degenerative Conditions
One of the most common uses of PRP therapy in orthopaedics is for joint-related pain, stiffness, and mild arthritis. PRP for joints may offer relief by supporting cartilage health and reducing local inflammation.
Examples include:
- PRP for knee pain (including knee arthritis PRP)
- PRP for hip pain (hip osteoarthritis)
- PRP for shoulder pain (including shoulder tendonitis PRP)
- PRP for back pain related to facet joint strain or soft tissue irritation
While PRP is not a cure for advanced arthritis, it may help manage symptoms in the early stages and delay more invasive interventions.
4. PRP for Muscle Strain and Soft Tissue Injury
PRP for muscle strain is increasingly being used in sports injury PRP treatment protocols. Muscle fibres injured through trauma or overuse may respond to PRP as part of a structured rehabilitation program.
Other soft tissue applications include:
- PRP for plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- PRP for hamstring injuries
- PRP for groin strain or adductor tendinopathy
Combining PRP with physiotherapy may enhance tissue recovery and functional improvement.
PRP vs Traditional Treatments
Compared to traditional treatments like rest, bracing, or cortisone injection, PRP aims to support biological healing at the tissue level. While cortisone injections may reduce pain quickly, they don’t address the underlying damage. PRP vs cortisone injection discussions should consider long-term tissue health and recovery goals.
For patients weighing options between PRP vs surgery for orthopaedic injuries, it’s worth noting that PRP may be appropriate for mild to moderate conditions where conservative care is still viable.
Conditions Less Commonly Treated with PRP
While PRP is primarily used in musculoskeletal conditions, emerging studies are exploring its use in:
- Cartilage injuries and osteochondral lesions
- Some forms of nerve irritation (though evidence is limited)
- Post-operative healing support in orthopaedic procedures
Patients should speak with a PRP doctor in Sydney or elsewhere to evaluate if PRP is suitable based on their individual case and the current clinical evidence.
