PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) DEMO: Knee Injection
- Dr. Tom Rogers
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Welcome to another edition of the Doctor's Note where we talk about what's on our minds when it comes to your health.
In this week’s episode, I put my own knee to the test with a live PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injection, administered by Jill Henritze, PA-C. Jill brings more than two decades of orthopedic experience to the table, making this procedure quick and painless! Having previously benefitted from this therapy, I wanted to give listeners an honest, first-hand perspective on what PRP is really like—both in terms of the procedure itself and the results I’ve experienced as an active, aging adult. We dove into what sets PRP apart, what you can expect during recovery, and addressed common questions and concerns about safety and effectiveness.
We made it a priority to break down both the science and the practical trajectory of PRP: how your own platelets are concentrated, reinjected, and used to promote healing in a way that contrasts with more traditional interventions like cortisone shots. We discussed the slower but deeper benefits of PRP—how it encourages long-term repair rather than just masking pain. Importantly, we touched on how recovery can vary depending on where the injection is given, so patients know when they can get back to their favorite activities and when it’s best to wait.
PODCAST NOTES
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections use a patient's own blood—spun down to concentrate healing platelets—which are then injected directly into a problem joint (like the knee) to support natural tissue repair and reduce pain caused by wear and tear over time.
In terms of safety, PRP injections come with minimal risks because the product used is autologous (from your own body). The most common side effects are limited to mild and temporary post-injection discomfort or a low likelihood of infection at the injection site, but serious complications are rare.
The effects of PRP are not immediate—it’s important to set expectations that meaningful improvement usually unfolds gradually over 6 to 12 weeks. Some patients may notice subtle improvements in the days following the injection, but lasting results typically build with time as the body repairs itself.
Unlike cortisone injections, which provide fast-acting but short-term relief by reducing inflammation, PRP aims for a regenerative effect, stimulating your body’s own healing processes and often resulting in longer-lasting changes, even though they take longer to appear.
After a knee PRP injection, most people can get up and walk almost right away, but it’s normal to feel some fullness or mild pressure in the joint due to the injected volume. Patients are advised to avoid heavy-impact activities, such as running or intense sports, for several days to allow the treatment to settle.
Recovery protocols differ depending on whether the PRP is injected into a joint (like a knee) or soft tissue (like a tendon). Joint injections typically involve less downtime, while tendon treatments may require longer periods of immobilization to protect the healing area.
Research and clinical experience strongly indicate that PRP works best for larger joints, such as knees and hips. There is less consistent evidence for small joints like those in the hand or thumb, where the therapy may not yield the same successful outcomes.
Compared to other injectable therapies such as those intended to build cartilage (i.e., viscosupplementation), PRP has demonstrated superior effectiveness for large joint issues in both research and real-world patient experiences.
In closing, PRP represents a promising, minimally invasive option for individuals seeking to manage joint discomfort and improve function—especially when traditional treatments have fallen short or when long-term solutions are preferred over quick fix pain relief.
If you’re curious about whether PRP could help with your joint pain or want to learn more about regenerative medicine options, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Taking a proactive approach can make all the difference—let’s keep you moving and thriving!
Stay educated. Stay healthy.
Till next week.
