PRP Therapy in Orthopedics: A Natural Solution for Faster Recovery

In the world of modern medicine, there is an increasing emphasis on regenerative treatment methods that use the body’s own resources to accelerate recovery. One of the most prominent methods in this approach is PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma), which has been increasingly used in orthopedics in recent years.

What is PRP Therapy?

PRP therapy uses plasma derived from the patient’s own blood, enriched with platelets—blood cells containing numerous growth factors essential for tissue regeneration. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein, centrifuging it to separate the platelet-rich plasma, and then injecting this plasma under ultrasound guidance into the injured or painful area.

This method stimulates the natural healing process, speeds up tissue regeneration, reduces pain, and restores function without the need for invasive procedures or medications.

When Did PRP Start Being Used in Orthopedics?

PRP therapy has been used in medicine since the 1980s, initially in dentistry and surgery. However, it entered orthopedics in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when doctors began noticing excellent results in treating sports injuries, chronic tendon inflammation, and degenerative joint changes. Today, PRP therapy is considered a standard approach in many orthopedic cases worldwide.

Advantages of PRP Therapy

• Natural method: uses the patient’s own blood, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
• Minimally invasive: performed without surgery and with very little discomfort.
• Faster recovery: promotes healing and tissue regeneration without the need for pain medications.
• Shortens downtime from daily activities: especially important for athletes and physically active individuals.

When is PRP Therapy Recommended?

PRP therapy is most commonly used for:

• Tendon inflammations and injuries (tennis elbow, jumper’s knee, painful Achilles tendon)
• Ligament injuries
• Cartilage and joint damage – early stages of osteoarthritis in the knee, shoulder, hip
• Muscle injuries
• Chronic pain and inflammation resistant to conventional therapy

Who are Candidates for PRP Therapy?

Most patients can be candidates for PRP therapy, but a medical examination is essential. Therapy is not recommended for individuals who have:

• Active autoimmune diseases
• Infections or inflammations at the application site
• Blood clotting disorders
• Caution is advised for pregnant and breastfeeding women

A thorough medical history and diagnostics are conducted before treatment to assess whether PRP therapy is the best option for the patient.

What Does the Treatment Process Look Like?

1. Examination and diagnosis – First, an orthopedic evaluation is performed, usually with additional diagnostics (ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI).
2. Blood collection – About 15-30 ml of blood is drawn from the patient’s vein.
3. PRP preparation – The blood is centrifuged to separate the platelet-rich plasma.
4. PRP injection – Under sterile conditions and ultrasound guidance, PRP is injected into the targeted area.
5. Recovery – Rest for 24–48 hours after the procedure is recommended, after which gradual return to daily activities is possible.

The entire procedure takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

How Often Should PRP Therapy be Repeated?

In most cases, one to three applications spaced several weeks apart are sufficient. Frequency depends on the severity of the injury and patient response to therapy. Results often begin to be felt within 2 to 6 weeks, with improvements lasting for months.

How Long Do the Results Last?

For most patients, the effects of PRP therapy can last from six months to several years, depending on the type of injury, age, general health, and lifestyle. The therapy can significantly delay or even prevent the need for surgery, especially in milder degenerative changes.

Scientific Evidence Supporting PRP Therapy

Several high-quality studies confirm the effectiveness of PRP in orthopedics:

• PRP in Tendinopathy Treatment
  A randomized trial (AJSM, 2014) showed significant symptom reduction in patients with jumper’s knee after PRP therapy.
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24481828/
• Effectiveness of PRP in Athletes
  Triple PRP injections in chronic patellar tendinopathy allowed faster return to sports.
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24519184/
• PRP in Knee Osteoarthritis
  PRP therapy significantly relieved symptoms of early knee osteoarthritis compared to placebo.
  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23299850/

These studies confirm that PRP is not just a trend but a serious and effective therapeutic option in modern orthopedics.

PRP Therapy at EO2 Polyclinic

At our Polyclinic, PRP therapy consultations and treatments are conducted by Dr. Milošević, a respected orthopedic specialist from Poliklinika Ribnjak, known for his expert approach and extensive experience in treating sports injuries and degenerative joint conditions. Dr. Milošević has successfully treated numerous professional athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts, and is known for his individualized patient approach.

Thanks to evidence-based methods, experience, and high expertise, Dr. Milošević provides therapy that is effective, safe, and tailored to each individual.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us. Your recovery can start today—naturally, with PRP therapy and the support of our expert team.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.