Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections may be the single biggest game-changing treatment I’ve seen in nearly 25 years as a Sports Medicine and Orthopedic physician. The role of PRP is constantly expanding, and the results we see today are more exciting than ever.
But like any treatment in medicine, PRP isn’t the right answer for every situation. There are times when it can be life-changing, and other times when a different approach is more effective.
Here are some common examples we see in practice:
When PRP Is a Great Option
✅ Advanced Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow
When ultrasound shows moderate to severe tendon damage and patients are experiencing significant pain and loss of function, PRP can be an excellent choice. In these cases, PRP helps heal tears that we can clearly see on imaging.
✅ Mild to Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis
This is one of PRP’s true strengths. PRP not only reduces pain and inflammation, but also helps improve function and may even slow or stop further deterioration of the joint.
✅ Partial Rotator Cuff Tears
For patients with mild pain, good strength, and preserved motion, PRP can support healing and help avoid surgery.
✅ Insertional Gluteal Tendinopathy (Often Miscalled “Hip Bursitis”)
This common condition—especially in middle-aged to older women—causes pain on the outside of the hip, difficulty sleeping on that side, and pain with stairs or longer walks. PRP is often a great option here.
✅ Chronic Plantar Fasciitis (Lasting 3+ Months)
When rest, therapy, footwear adjustments, and medications haven’t helped, PRP can provide real relief—often avoiding the need for more invasive surgery.
When PRP May Not Be the Best Choice
❌ Early/Mild Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow
If ultrasound only shows minimal tendon changes and pain is mild, conservative options like therapy, rest, bracing, and medications usually work well without the need for PRP.
❌ Severe Knee Osteoarthritis With Significant Misalignment
If the knee is badly worn down with severe pain, bowing, or disability, knee replacement is usually the best option. PRP won’t reverse severe structural damage.
❌ Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears in Younger or Middle-Aged Patients
If there’s significant loss of strength and motion, surgical repair is the better route—PRP won’t replace the benefits of fixing the tendon directly.
❌ Advanced Hip Osteoarthritis
When the hip joint is severely damaged, total hip replacement remains the gold standard.
Our Approach at Impact Sports Medicine
At Impact Sports Medicine, our goal is simple: to help you get the best possible outcome—even if that means recommending a treatment we don’t provide ourselves. We want every patient to be cared for as if you were part of our own family.
PRP is a powerful tool, but like all tools, it works best when used at the right time, in the right situation. If you’re struggling with joint, tendon, or ligament pain, we’d be glad to help you figure out whether PRP—or another treatment—will get you back to doing what you love.
