Platelet-Rich plasma (PRP) Injections in Castle Rock

What is a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

A PRP injection is a minimally invasive procedure designed to promote healing and reduce inflammation in joints, tendons, ligaments, and discs. This treatment involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting the platelet-rich plasma into the affected area to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.

Dr. Carrera specializes in PRP injections for the hip, knee, sacroiliac (SI) joint, shoulder, and facet joints, as well as tendons and ligaments such as those affected by lateral or medial epicondylitis (tennis or golfer’s elbow), IT band syndrome, and greater trochanteric (GT) bursitis. Additionally, PRP can be injected into damaged spinal discs to promote healing and pain relief.

How do Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Work?

Platelets are rich in growth factors that help reduce inflammation and stimulate the body’s natural healing response. When injected into an injured or degenerative area, PRP can promote tissue repair, improve function, and reduce pain over time. Unlike steroid injections, PRP does not mask pain but instead works to heal the damaged tissue itself.

Scientific studies show that PRP can stimulate the repair of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage in laboratory settings. While animal and basic science studies suggest PRP may regenerate tissue, no firm evidence currently proves regeneration occurs in humans. Instead, PRP is thought to work by modulating inflammation, enhancing healing factors, and improving joint function rather than directly regrowing cartilage or tissue.

Stem cell therapy and bone marrow aspirate injections function similarly to PRP, using the body's cells to stimulate healing. However, these procedures are significantly more expensive while offering similar clinical success rates. Many patients opt for PRP as a cost-effective alternative, achieving meaningful pain relief and improved function without the additional financial burden.

What Conditions are Treated with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections?

PRP injections are commonly used to treat:

  • Joint pain and arthritis in the hip, knee, shoulder, and SI joint

  • Tendon injuries such as lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer’s elbow)

  • Ligament injuries such as IT band syndrome

  • Bursitis, particularly greater trochanteric bursitis

  • Rotator cuff tears and shoulder tendon injuries

  • Spinal facet joint pain

  • Degenerative disc disease and disc injuries

How Should I Prepare for a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

Wear loose clothing to allow easy access to the injection site. Dr. Carrera’s team will advise you on any necessary medication adjustments before the procedure. Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (such as NSAIDs) for at least one week before and two to four weeks after the injection, as these can interfere with PRP’s healing process.

What Happens During a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

  1. Blood Draw: A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm.

  2. Platelet Processing: The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, a process that takes 20 to 40 minutes.

  3. Injection: The PRP is injected into the targeted joint, tendon, ligament, or disc using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance for precision.

The entire visit typically lasts 1–1.5 hours, with the injection itself taking 1–5 minutes.

How Painful is a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

Most patients report mild discomfort during the procedure. When performed by Dr. Carrera, patients typically rate the pain between 1 and 4 out of 10. The injection itself usually feels like a pinch at the skin, minor pinches through muscle layers, and mild pressure as the PRP is injected into the tissue.

Dr. Carrera uses exceptionally small needles, even smaller than those used for flu shots, to ensure maximum patient comfort.

What Should I Do After a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

  • Avoid strenuous activities for at least 48 hours following the procedure.

  • Do not take anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for at least two weeks after the procedure to allow PRP to work effectively.

  • Mild soreness at the injection site is common and typically resolves within a few days.

  • Perform gentle range of motion and body-weight exercises for the first two weeks.

  • Gradually increase weight or exercise duration by 10–20% every few days after the initial two-week period.

When Will I Experience Pain Relief After a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

PRP does not provide immediate pain relief like steroid injections. Most patients begin to notice improvement two to four weeks after the injection, with continued healing over three to six months.

Research shows that 50-60% of patients will report at least 50% improvement in pain between the 6- to 12-week mark. Generally, if PRP works well in one area of the body, it tends to work well in others.

How Long Does a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection Provide Pain Relief?

Pain relief varies among patients, but many experience relief lasting six months to two years, depending on the severity of the condition. PRP can be repeated as often as every 3 months to enhance pain relief.

Are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Covered by Insurance?

Most insurance plans do not cover PRP injections, as they are considered a regenerative treatment. However, Dr. Carrera’s office offers affordable pricing options, with most joint or tendon PRP injections ranging from $850 to $950, while spinal PRP injections generally cost $1200 to $1600.

Who Can Perform a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection Procedure?

PRP injections should be performed by physicians with expertise in regenerative medicine and interventional pain procedures. Dr. Carrera is double-board certified in interventional pain medicine and physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), making him uniquely qualified to perform PRP injections safely and effectively.

Dr. Carrera provides PRP injections in an in-office procedure suite, significantly reducing costs compared to hospital-based procedures. Additionally, he uses advanced imaging guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) to ensure precise placement and optimal healing results.

Should I get a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection?

If you are experiencing chronic joint pain, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, or degenerative disc pain, and are wondering if a PRP injection is the right treatment for you, a consultation with Dr. Carrera and his team can help determine your eligibility.

Patients in Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Highlands Ranch, Parker, Denver, and surrounding areas are encouraged to call the office at 720-455-3775 to schedule a visit and learn more.