PRP is also a Game-Changer for Shoulders, Elbows, Hips and Feet
/Our number one application for platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections is knee osteoarthritis.
Yet, shoulder osteoarthritis, rotator cuff and labral problems also respond very favorably to PRP.
Tennis elbow and golfers’ elbow are great applications of PRP.
Hip osteoarthritis, insertional gluteal tendonopathy and bursitis of the hip are commonly treated with great success with PRP.
Finally, in the foot and ankle, osteoarthritis, particularly of the big toe joint, Achilles tendonopathy and plantar fasciitis are common conditions we treat with PRP.
For a tendon problem, why would you choose PRP over a steroid/cortisone injection?
With a PRP injection, we use your own platelets to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration by releasing growth factors. It aims to repair the tendon, not just reduce symptoms. Steroid injections can lead to tendon degeneration or even rupture with repeated use, while PRP is safer for tendon tissue, especially with chronic degenerative tendon conditions.
What about in the case of osteoarthritis? Here’s a table that highlights the differences.
Factor PRP Steroid
Onset of relief Slower (weeks) Fast (days)
Duration of Relief Months to years Weeks
Cartilage effects Potentially protective Potentially harmful
Side effects Minimal Possible systemic and local issues
Disease-modifying? Likely No
Are you interested in improving your quality of life? Reducing your pain? Improving your function? Are you seeking the healing of damaged tissues? Stopping or slowing the deterioration of your joints? If so, then PRP is likely a very good option for you.
As always, let us know if we can be of assistance!