What to Expect During a PRP Injection Appointment: A Patient Guide

Before Your Appointment

Your PRP injection begins with a brief consultation to review your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. Your provider will explain the procedure, answer any questions, and ensure you are a good candidate for PRP therapy. Most patients do not need to fast or stop medications, but you may be asked to avoid anti-inflammatory drugs before the appointment.

Step 1: Blood Draw

The first step is a simple blood draw, similar to routine lab work. A small amount of your blood is collected and placed into a sterile tube. This blood sample will be used to create the platelet-rich plasma needed for your injection.

Step 2: Preparing the PRP

Your blood sample is placed into a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speed to separate the platelets from other components. This process concentrates the platelets, creating a powerful PRP solution rich in growth factors that support healing and tissue repair.

Step 3: The Injection Process

Once the PRP is prepared, your provider will clean the treatment area and may use ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement of the injection. The PRP is then injected directly into the injured or painful tissue. You may feel mild pressure or discomfort, but the procedure is typically well tolerated.

After the Injection

Most patients can return to normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. Mild soreness or stiffness is common for a few days as the healing process begins. Your provider may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise temporarily and may provide guidance on activity levels, stretching, or physical therapy.

When to Expect Results

PRP works gradually as your body responds to the growth factors in the injection. Many patients begin noticing improvement within 4–6 weeks, with continued progress over several months. Some conditions may require more than one treatment for optimal results.