If you’re bothered by chronic joint pain or early signs of arthritis, you may be looking for alternatives to surgery or long-term medication. One increasingly popular option is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. This natural, regenerative treatment uses your body’s own blood components to promote healing.
At Momentum Medical, we offer PRP for joint pain in Brandon, FL to help patients find lasting relief without the risks of invasive procedures. Here’s what you need to know about how PRP works, what to expect, and why it’s especially effective for conditions like knee osteoarthritis.
What Is PRP and How Does It Work?
Platelet-rich plasma is harnessed from a small sample of your blood. The blood sample is put in a centrifuge and spun to concentrate the platelets—cells rich in growth factors that help heal damaged tissues.
When injected into a painful joint, PRP helps relieve joint pain by:
- Reducing inflammation
- Stimulating cartilage regeneration
- Accelerating soft tissue repair
- Improving joint lubrication
These results make PRP especially effective for treating arthritis, tendon injuries, and joint overuse conditions.
What to Expect During PRP Injections for Joint Pain
If you’re considering PRP, here’s an example of the PRP injection process at Momentum Medical.
1. Initial Consultation
We assess your joint condition, review any imaging, and determine if PRP suits you.
2. Blood Draw and Processing
A small sample of your blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge. This concentrates the healing platelets.
3. Injection Procedure
The PRP is injected directly into the affected joint using ultrasound guidance for accuracy. The procedure usually lasts less than 30 minutes.
4. Post-Injection Care
You may experience mild soreness for a few days. We recommend rest, icing, and Tylenol for discomfort. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as they may interfere with healing.
5. Recovery Timeline
Many patients begin noticing improvements within 2 to 6 weeks. Depending on your condition, your provider may recommend 1 to 3 sessions.
Is PRP Effective for Knee Osteoarthritis?
One of the most promising uses of PRP therapy is for treating knee osteoarthritis (OA)—a degenerative condition that breaks down cartilage and often leads to joint replacement surgery.
What the Research Shows
Studies show that PRP for knee OA can:
- Reduce knee pain and stiffness more effectively than hyaluronic acid (gel) injections
- Improve joint function and quality of life
- Slow cartilage degeneration
- Delay or prevent the need for surgical intervention
If you’re exploring non-surgical treatment for knee arthritis, PRP may be a safe and effective alternative—especially for mild to moderate cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About PRP for Joint Pain
What is PRP made of?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is made from a small sample of your own blood. It’s processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, 7which are rich in healing growth factors.
How long does it take for PRP injections to work?
Most patients start to experience relief within 2 to 6 weeks after treatment. Full benefits may develop for several months as the tissue heals and inflammation decreases.
How many PRP treatments will I need?
It depends on the condition and severity. Some patients feel significantly better after one injection, while others may benefit from a series of 2–3 treatments spaced weeks apart.
Is PRP effective for knee osteoarthritis?
Yes. Studies have shown that PRP can reduce pain and improve joint function in people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. It may also help delay the need for knee replacement surgery.
Does PRP hurt?
The injection is generally well-tolerated. During the procedure, you may feel some pressure or mild discomfort and temporary soreness afterward. Ice and Tylenol usually help manage any discomfort.
Is there downtime after a PRP injection?
Most people return to regular daily activity within 24–48 hours. However, while the joint begins healing, you should avoid high-impact or intense exercise for several days.
Are PRP injections safe?
Yes. Because PRP uses your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or infection is extremely low. It’s a natural, minimally invasive alternative to medications or surgery.
Will insurance cover PRP therapy?
Most insurance plans currently do not cover PRP because it is viewed as an elective or regenerative procedure. However, many patients consider it a valuable investment for long-term pain relief.
Why Choose Momentum Medical for PRP Therapy?
At Momentum Medical, we specialize in regenerative care, using advanced techniques and personalized treatment plans. Our providers are highly trained in using platelet-rich plasma for arthritis and joint injuries, helping patients return to active lives without surgery.
Ready to Explore PRP for Joint Pain?
If you’re looking for a non-surgical solution to joint pain or knee arthritis, PRP therapy may be the answer. Let’s find out together if it’s right for you.
Call us today or request your consultation online to take the first step toward long-lasting relief.