Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a concentrated portion of your own blood to support healing. At University of Rochester Medicine, PRP therapy is used across multiple specialties to help reduce pain and inflammation, improve function, and support recovery. It can be used as an “add on” during surgery to help reduce inflammation and facilitate repair.
PRP contains a higher concentration of platelets than normal blood. Platelets are blood cells that help stop bleeding and play a key role in healing.
PRP may not be covered by insurance.
How Does PRP Work?
PRP works by supporting the body’s natural healing process. It concentrates platelets in one part of the body, which:
- Release growth factors
- Support tissue repair
- Help regulate inflammation
PRP can be used in multiple specialties and conditions.
Common Conditions Treated with PRP
Muscles, Tendons, and Joints
- Used in orthopaedics and sports medicine
- Helps with injury repair and pain reduction
- Examples: knee arthritis, rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, jumper’s knee, hip chondromalacia
Skin and Hair Follicles
- Used in dermatology
- Supports collagen production and skin renewal
- May help stimulate hair growth
Gums, Bone, and Oral Tissues
- Used in dental and oral surgery
- Helps support healing after procedures
Wound Care
- Promotes healing in difficult or long-lasting wounds
What Are the Benefits of PRP?
PRP offers several benefits, including:
- A low risk of reaction because it uses your own blood
- It’s minimally invasive
- In some cases, it may help delay or avoid surgery
- It can be used in many parts of the body
What Are the Risks of PRP?
Infection is possible, but rare. Some additional limitations of PRP are:;
- Healing response varies and results are not guaranteed
- It may not be covered by insurance
- You may experience pain and swelling
Our Approach
Before your appointment, your care team will provide instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications. Some people only need one injection, while others may need a series of treatments.
During Treatment
Treatment is typically completed in one office visit. During the treatment:
- A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm(typically around 90CCs of blood)
- The blood is placed in a centrifuge (a machine that spins to separate components)
- The platelet-richportionis collected
- PRP is injected into the targeted area
Local numbing may be used depending on the area. You may experience mild to moderate discomfort at the injection site.
Ultrasound or other imaging may be used to guide the injection.
After Treatment
Pain or soreness after the injection is often part of the healing process.
First 24–72 Hours
During the first few days after treatment, you may experience soreness and swelling, which are normal inflammatory responses. Your provider may suggest limited activity during this period.
First Few Weeks
You may still have some discomfort, but symptoms should gradually improve. Your provider may suggest beginning physical therapy during this time.
Longer-Term Healing (4-12 Weeks and Beyond)
Full results may take several months, but many people notice improvement during this time.
What Sets Us Apart?
At University of Rochester Medicine, PRP therapy is part of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to healing. Your care will be personalized and tailored to your condition, goals, and lifestyle.
We offer expert, multidisciplinary care within an integrated academic health system. This means we have direct access to the latest research, clinical expertise, and innovative therapies. We also offer advanced imaging and precision techniques to improve accuracy and outcomes.