PRP + Musculoskeletal Wellness
A Personalized Approach to Joint & Soft Tissue Care
Explore platelet-rich plasma as a minimally invasive option being studied for selected joint and musculoskeletal conditions, following a comprehensive medical evaluation.
What Is Musculoskeletal PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrated preparation of platelets derived from your own blood. In musculoskeletal care, PRP is being studied as a minimally invasive option that may support the body's natural healing response in selected joint and soft-tissue conditions.
PRP is not a guaranteed treatment and evidence varies substantially across different conditions. It is not a replacement for surgery or established medical treatment when those are indicated. A comprehensive medical evaluation is required to determine whether PRP may be appropriate for your individual situation.
Knee Osteoarthritis & Selected Tendon Conditions
Research into PRP for musculoskeletal conditions is ongoing. Some studies suggest PRP may support symptom management in selected cases of knee osteoarthritis and certain tendon conditions, while other studies show limited or inconclusive results. Your provider will review the available evidence as it relates to your specific condition.
- Knee osteoarthritis, where PRP is being studied as a supportive option for selected patients
- Selected tendon conditions, such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and Achilles tendinopathy
- Certain soft-tissue concerns following individualized clinical evaluation
- Not all joint or tendon conditions are appropriate for PRP — candidacy is determined by your provider
How PRP Is Prepared
PRP is prepared from a small sample of your own blood, drawn at the time of your appointment. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets from other blood components. The resulting platelet-rich plasma is then prepared for injection into the targeted area.
Because PRP uses your own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission from the PRP itself. The preparation process follows established protocols to maintain sterility and quality.
Clinical Evaluation & Candidacy
Not everyone is a candidate for PRP. Your provider will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether PRP may be appropriate for you, or whether established medical treatments, physical therapy, or surgical consultation should be considered.
- Review of your medical history, current medications, and previous treatments
- Physical examination of the affected joint or soft-tissue area
- Review of any available imaging (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) to assess the condition
- Discussion of treatment goals, alternatives, and realistic expectations
- Assessment of whether PRP is appropriate or whether other treatments should be considered first
What Happens During Treatment
If PRP is determined to be appropriate, the treatment is performed in a single visit. After your blood is drawn and processed, the concentrated PRP is injected into the targeted area using sterile technique. Local anesthesia may be used to improve comfort during the injection.
The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Your provider will explain the specific steps, expected sensations, and any post-procedure instructions before beginning.
Potential Benefits, Limitations & Risks
It is important to have realistic expectations. PRP is an emerging therapy, and the evidence supporting its use differs substantially across different musculoskeletal conditions. Your provider will discuss the specific evidence, potential benefits, and limitations as they relate to your individual situation.
- Potential benefits: Some patients report reduced discomfort and improved function, though results vary and are not guaranteed
- Limitations: Evidence varies by condition; PRP is not a cure and may not provide benefit for all patients
- Not a substitute for surgery: PRP is not an alternative to surgery or established medical treatment when those are indicated
- Potential risks: Mild pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site; rare but possible infection or nerve irritation
- Contraindications: Active infection, certain blood disorders, some medications, and pregnancy may preclude PRP treatment
Recovery & Follow-Up
After PRP treatment, you may experience mild soreness or swelling at the injection site for a few days. Your provider will give you specific post-procedure instructions, which may include activity modification, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief as appropriate.
A follow-up plan will be discussed to monitor your progress. Some patients may benefit from a series of treatments, while others may require only one. Your provider will recommend a personalized plan based on your response and individual goals.
Your Joint PRP Journey
01
Consult
Discuss your joint or soft-tissue concerns with a licensed medical provider.
02
Evaluate
A comprehensive medical evaluation, including review of your history and any imaging, to determine candidacy.
03
Treat
If PRP is appropriate, a personalized treatment is performed using your own concentrated platelets.
04
Follow-Up
Recovery guidance and a follow-up plan to monitor your progress and adjust as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
PRP and regenerative wellness treatments are available at our Rancho Cordova clinic, serving clients across Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, and surrounding communities. All treatments are physician-led and require a consultation to determine candidacy.
Need Help Deciding?
General questions about services or pricing?
Want personalized treatment recommendations?
Wondering if PRP is right for your joint or soft-tissue concern? Meet with a licensed medical provider for a personalized evaluation.
$99 applied toward an eligible treatment when you proceed within 30 days.
Schedule a provider consultation to discuss whether PRP may be appropriate for your joint or musculoskeletal concern.