Never has platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy had more traction in the orthopedic world than it does today. After more than a decade of use, PRP—a treatment that uses your own blood and growth factors to stimulate healing—has proven its staying power.
Because of this, more orthopedic practices than ever are offering PRP as a minimally invasive, more holistic treatment option. But here’s the important truth: PRP at one practice can be vastly different from PRP at another.
The success of a PRP injection depends on many critical factors. Here are some of the most important:
1. The Experience of the Physician
PRP is a highly technique-sensitive procedure. The skill, training, and experience of the physician performing the injection can make all the difference in your outcome.
2. Ultrasound Guidance for Accuracy
PRP injections are most effective when placed precisely at the site of injury. Practices that always use ultrasound guidance ensure the highest accuracy, which translates to better results.
3. The PRP System and Preparation Process
Not all PRP systems are equal:
The amount of blood drawn
The method of preparation
The sophistication of the centrifugation system
All of these determine how concentrated the final platelet product will be. More advanced systems can isolate a higher number of platelets, which release more healing growth factors. Think of PRP preparation as a science experiment—precision matters.
4. Pre- and Post-Injection Protocols
The success of PRP doesn’t just depend on the injection itself. What happens before and after is just as important.
Before: Patients should be “primed” to produce the highest quality PRP possible. Your physician should provide detailed instructions and handouts, not just a casual “see you at your appointment.”
After: Proper aftercare is crucial. Which medications and supplements should be stopped? How should you protect the injection site? When can you return to exercise or physical therapy? These details matter for healing and long-term success.
5. The Number and Timing of Injections
Some conditions require more than one injection, and the timing of these sessions can significantly impact outcomes. A practice with deep PRP experience knows how to tailor this to your condition.
6. Setting Realistic Expectations
Finally, your physician should provide clear, realistic expectations based on expertise and years of experience—not vague promises.
Choosing the Right Practice for PRP
The reality is that many orthopedic practices are now “diving into” PRP. Some have the knowledge and experience to deliver outstanding results, while others are new to the field and may not fully understand the science behind it.
At Impact Sports Medicine, we are leaders in PRP therapy:
15+ years of experience performing PRP procedures
Ultrasound guidance with every injection
Detailed before-and-after instructions for every patient
We believe PRP is too important to be treated as a “side service.” Physicians can only be excellent at a limited number of things—and if PRP isn’t a routine part of a practice, it’s unlikely they have the expertise to maximize your outcome.
If you’re considering PRP, choose wisely. We’d be happy to answer your questions and help determine if PRP is the right option for you
