Can platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections heal your joints?

PRP for Joint Pain, West Malling, Kent

Joint pain is one of the most common complaints seen in both active and ageing adults. Whether caused by arthritis, injury or wear and tear, it can impact your movement, mood and overall quality of life. While traditional treatments like painkillers, physiotherapy and steroid injections can help manage symptoms, they often do little to address the underlying problem. This is where platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections come in – a treatment that uses your body’s own healing mechanisms to repair and regenerate damaged tissues. But can PRP actually heal your joints, and how does it work?

What is PRP therapy?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a regenerative medical treatment that harnesses the natural healing potential of your blood. PRP is created by taking a small blood sample, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma from the red and white blood cells. The resulting plasma is rich in platelets and growth factors – the key components that help stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.

When injected into the affected joint, PRP releases these growth factors at high concentrations, promoting healing in the surrounding tissue. The idea is to enhance the body’s natural repair process, reduce inflammation and encourage new collagen and cartilage formation, all of which can improve mobility and reduce pain over time.

How does PRP help with joint pain?

The healing effects of PRP come from the powerful growth factors contained in your platelets. These growth factors help stimulate the production of new cells, repair damaged tissues and improve blood flow to the injured area. When used in joint therapy, PRP can help rebuild cartilage, reduce inflammation and restore joint lubrication. This can lead to less pain, improved flexibility and better joint function overall.

For people with osteoarthritis or tendon injuries, PRP injections can help slow the degenerative process. Studies have shown that PRP can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints like the knees, shoulders and hips, often providing longer-lasting relief compared to traditional steroid injections. While it may not fully “cure” arthritis or severe structural damage, PRP can significantly improve symptoms and delay the need for surgery in many cases.

What does the treatment involve?

PRP therapy is a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. After drawing your blood, it is processed to extract the platelet-rich plasma, which is then carefully injected into the affected joint. Because the treatment uses your own blood, there is minimal risk of allergic reaction or rejection.

The number of sessions required depends on the severity of your condition and your individual response to treatment. Most people need a series of injections spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results. Improvements can typically be felt within a few weeks, with continued progress over several months as the tissue regenerates.

What are the benefits of PRP for joints?

Patients often report improved mobility, reduced inflammation and a gradual but noticeable reduction in joint discomfort. Unlike steroid injections, which can weaken tissues over time, PRP supports long-term joint health by helping to rebuild and strengthen the affected area.

It can be used to treat a range of joint-related issues, including osteoarthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries and chronic inflammation. PRP is particularly beneficial for people who lead active lifestyles and want to maintain joint strength without resorting to surgery or long-term medication use.

Are there any side effects?

PRP injections are generally very safe, as they use your own blood components. Some patients may experience mild swelling, tenderness or stiffness at the injection site for a day or two following treatment, but these effects are temporary. Serious complications are extremely rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced practitioner.

Because PRP relies on your body’s healing response, results take time. It is not an instant fix, but rather a regenerative process that builds over several weeks and months.

How does PRP compare to other joint treatments?

Compared to corticosteroid injections, which provide quick but short-term relief, PRP offers a more natural and longer-lasting solution. While steroid injections can reduce inflammation rapidly, they do not repair the underlying tissue and may even weaken cartilage if used repeatedly.

PRP, on the other hand, works at the root of the problem by repairing and regenerating the damaged tissue. It can be an excellent option for people who are not yet ready for joint replacement surgery or those seeking a more holistic and regenerative approach to pain management.

Can PRP heal joints completely?

The word “heal” can be misleading when it comes to chronic joint conditions like arthritis. While PRP cannot reverse severe joint degeneration or fully regrow cartilage in advanced cases, it can significantly enhance joint health, reduce pain and slow down the progression of damage. In mild to moderate cases, PRP can help restore normal function and keep joints healthier for longer.

The success of PRP depends on several factors, including your age, the extent of joint damage and overall health. It works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, physiotherapy and weight management, all of which contribute to long-term joint stability.

PRP therapy is an exciting development in regenerative medicine, offering real potential for improving joint health without surgery or medication. While it may not be a miracle cure, it can make a meaningful difference in pain levels, mobility and quality of life by helping your body heal itself.

If you are struggling with joint pain or early signs of arthritis and want to explore natural, evidence-based treatment options, PRP could be a great place to start. A consultation with our GP can help determine if you are a suitable candidate and create a personalised plan to help you move more freely and live more comfortably. Click here to enquire or to book an appointment.