What is PRP?

PRP is Platelet-Rich Plasma.

 A small sample of your blood is collected and placed into a centrifuge.

 The centrifuge separates the different parts of your blood.

 The platelet-rich portion is collected for treatment.

 PRP is autologous, which means it comes from your own blood.

PRP: Your blood contains tiny "first responders" that help begin the healing process

When you cut your finger, your body immediately sends platelets to the area.

 Most people think platelets only stop bleeding.

 They do much more than that.

 Platelets also release hundreds of natural signalling molecules that help coordinate the body's repair process.

PRP simply concentrates those platelets from a small sample of your own blood and places them where your healthcare provider believes they may be most helpful.

What are platelets?

Platelets are tiny cells that circulate in your bloodstream.

Their first job is to help stop bleeding.

Their second job is to release natural growth factors and signalling proteins that help organize tissue repair after an injury.

Think of platelets as construction managers, they don't become new tendon or cartilage themselves, instead they tell the repair crew where to go and when to start working.

What are growth factors?

Growth factors are natural proteins released by platelets, which act like text messages between cells. Some tell cells to divide, some encourage new blood vessels, some help attract repair cells, some influence collagen production.

These signals are already part of normal healing.

PRP simply places more of those signalling molecules into one area.

If my body already has platelets, why would I need PRP?

Imagine trying to repair a section of highway with only three workers. Now imagine sending thirty workers instead. The repair process may become more organized and efficient.

PRP works on a similar idea. Instead of relying only on the number of platelets normally circulating through an area, PRP concentrates many more platelets into a much smaller volume.

The goal is to increase the number of natural healing signals available where they are needed.

Does PRP instantly replace damaged tissue?

No, PRP is not an instant fix and it does not instantly rebuild damaged structures.

PRP provides signalling molecules that may help support the body's own repair response.

If your injury is chronic (meaning older than 12 weeks) it will take longer for the healing process to occur. In cases where the injury is several years or decades old, it must first go through a deconstruction process to remove old damage before healing can occur. The damage from this injury did not happen overnight, and it cannot be repaired overnight either.

Results vary depending on the severity of the injury, the type of tissue, how long the injury has been present, overall health and many other factors.

Does PRP hurt? Why does the treatment area sometimes feel worse before it feels better?

Most people describe PRP injections as uncomfortable rather than painful, although this varies depending on the area being treated. It is also common for the treatment area to feel more sore for a few days afterward. This is because PRP is designed to stimulate your body's natural healing response, it is not a tool of symptom control designed to numb pain (like Cortisone). As that process begins, temporary inflammation may occur before improvement is noticed. Your clinician will explain what is considered a normal recovery and what symptoms should prompt you to contact the clinic.

Can PRP regrow cartilage or cure arthritis?

PRP is not a cure for arthritis, and it should not be expected to completely regrow damaged cartilage. Its purpose is to support the body's natural healing processes and, in some people, help improve pain, long-term function, and extended quality of life. The degree of improvement varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of joint changes, overall health, activity level, and rehabilitation, as well as adherance to protocol instructions.

What are the differences between PRP, Prolozone, cortisone and hyaluronic acid?

Although all four treatments may be be used for joint or soft tissue conditions, they work in very different ways and are intended to achieve different goals.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses concentrated platelets from your own blood to deliver natural growth factors and signalling proteins that support the body's healing response. Of all treatments it has the least amount of side effects, and there is no chance of allergic reaction to your own blood. Chance of infection is also greatly reduced when post-care instructions are followed precisely.

Prolozone creates controlled cellular signalling, local oxygen utilization, and the body's natural repair processes. Emerging research suggests that calcific tendinopathy, may result in the gradual breakdown and resorption of calcium deposits while reducing pain and improving function.

Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory medication used to reduce pain and inflammation. It can provide symptom relief during flare-ups, but it is not intended to repair or regenerate damaged tissues. Research has also raised concerns about the potential effects of repeated corticosteroid injections on cartilage and other joint tissues, so the potential benefits and risks should be carefully considered for each individual.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component of healthy joint fluid. When injected, it may improve lubrication and cushioning within the joint and help reduce symptoms. Current evidence suggests that its primary role is symptom management rather than stimulating tissue repair. It coats the joint surface, which means it cannot be used at the same time as PRP since PRP must come in contact with tissues in order to be effective.

Our clinic focuses on therapies that aim to support the body's natural healing processes whenever appropriate. However, no single treatment is right for everyone. During your consultation, we'll discuss the current evidence, the potential benefits and limitations of each option, and help you determine which approach best aligns with your condition, goals, and overall health.