The Truth About PRP Injections and What to Expect Long-Term

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has gained attention as a non-surgical option for joint pain and orthopedic injuries. At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington (IOW), we prioritize evidence-based, personalized care to help patients make informed decisions. This article breaks down what PRP is, what it treats, how long it lasts, and whether it’s worth the cost especially for those considering alternatives to surgery.

What Is PRP Therapy?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses components from your own blood to support healing in injured or degenerative tissues. It works by concentrating platelets (cells that release growth factors) and delivering them precisely where your body needs them most.

At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington (IOW), PRP therapy is performed with clinical precision and designed for therapeutic impact:

• Blood draw: We draw 250–480 ml of your blood (significantly more than the 30–60 ml used by many clinics). Why? Because higher blood volume produces properly dosed PRP, which is essential for effectiveness.

• Centrifugation: Your blood is processed in a specialized centrifuge to separate and concentrate platelets and growth factors.

• Image-guided injection: Using real-time ultrasound or fluoroscopy, the concentrated PRP is injected directly into the targeted joint, tendon, or ligament ensuring accuracy and safety.

The result? A biologic therapy that aims to reduce inflammation, stimulate tissue repair, and restore function without surgery or masking symptoms.

What Conditions Can PRP Treat?

PRP therapy is used to treat a wide variety of orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions including:

• Chronic tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis)

• Knee osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint conditions

• Plantar fasciitis

• Rotator cuff injuries

• SI joint and lower back pain

• Ligament strains and muscle injuries

PRP is especially useful when conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or NSAIDs haven’t worked and before committing to surgery.

Myth-Busting PRP: What You Might've Heard (and What's Actually True)

Misconception #1: "PRP Is Too Expensive"

PRP isn't usually covered by insurance, which leads some to assume it's not worth the investment. But unlike pain meds or cortisone shots, PRP targets the root cause of pain and may reduce your need for long-term interventions.

What to know about cost:

• Price: Typically $1,500–$5,000 per area treated at IOW

• Long-term value: Can reduce need for surgery, medication, or repeated cortisone

• Is it worth it? If PRP helps delay or prevent a joint replacement, many patients say yes

Misconception #2: "PRP Is Only for Athletes"

While PRP gained popularity in professional sports, it's not reserved for the elite. At IOW, we treat active adults, retirees, weekend warriors, and people simply trying to walk without pain.

The Reality:

PRP is effective across age groups. What matters most is the quality of your tissue and the specifics of your condition, not your fitness level.

Misconception #3: "There's an Age Limit for PRP to Work"

PRP doesn't come with an expiration date. While age can influence healing, it’s not the primary factor that determines success.

Key factors in PRP success:

• Severity of your condition

• Blood platelet quality

• Adherence to post-injection protocols

• Overall metabolic and hormonal health

We evaluate all of this in your consultation, not just your birthdate.

How Long Does PRP Last?

This is one of the most common questions we hear about PRP for joint pain. While results vary, most patients experience:

• Improvement within 2-6 weeks

• Peak benefit at 8-12 weeks

• Relief lasting 6-12+ months

Results are optimized when PRP is combined with the right rehabilitation, nutrition, and hormone balance, areas we support as part of your care plan.

Is PRP Therapy Safe?

Yes. Because PRP uses your own blood (autologous), it carries a low risk of adverse reaction.

Potential (but rare) side effects:

• Temporary swelling, soreness, or bruising at the injection site

• Minor risk of infection or irritation, especially with non-guided injections

At IOW, all PRP injections are performed under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance, ensuring precision, safety, and the best chance of a positive outcome.

Why PRP Might Seem Expensive (But Isn't in the Long Run)

While PRP injections may not be covered by insurance, they can be cost-effective when compared to:

• Joint surgery and rehab

• Repeat cortisone shots

• Long-term medication use

• Lost productivity due to downtime

Long-term Benefits:

• Promotes real healing and not just symptom relief

• Helps avoid surgery

• Supports long-term joint function and mobility

What to Expect at Interventional Orthopedics of Washington

We take a precision-guided, diagnostics-first approach to regenerative care. Your PRP treatment at IOW includes:

• Image-guided injection with ultrasound or fluoroscopy

• Care from fellowship-trained physicians:

1. Dr. Otoño Silva, M.D. – Founder of IOW, Board-Certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Fellowship-Trained in Interventional Orthopedics

2. Dr. Balaji Sridhar, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. – Specialist in Orthobiologics and Regenerative Medicine, Expert in Musculoskeletal Health and Stem Cell Research

• A personalized plan based on your health history, injury severity, and goals

• Post-injection care: rehab planning, nutritional support, and progress tracking

The Bottom Line: Should You Try PRP for Joint Pain?

PRP therapy is not a miracle, but for the right patient, it’s a powerful alternative to surgery and long-term medication. Like all treatments, it’s most effective when delivered with expertise, guided by imaging, and supported by whole-body care.

Key takeaways:

• It's evidence-based: Especially for knee arthritis, tendon issues, and certain back pain

• It's not instant: Results build over weeks to months

• It's personalized: Success depends on your health, injury, and adherence to recovery

• It's safe and minimally invasive

Ready to see if PRP therapy is right for you? We offer free discovery calls and in-depth consultations to help you explore your options without pressure.