What it is
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from a small sample of your own blood. The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins it to separate its components, and the portion with a higher concentration of platelets is collected. Platelets are small blood cells best known for helping blood clot, and they also carry natural signaling proteins called growth factors.
The concentrated plasma is then used by a clinician, sometimes with imaging guidance, at a chosen area of the body. Because it comes from your own blood, it is often described as autologous. That does not mean it is risk-free, and the details of preparation can differ widely between clinics and devices.
PRP is not the same as stem cell therapy. It does not contain stem cells as its active focus, though it often appears in the same conversations about regenerative medicine. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders, used in specialist transplant settings. Most clinic stem-cell, adipose/SVF, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, perinatal and exosome products are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products. No exosome product is FDA-approved.
How it’s traditionally been approached
PRP has been discussed in sports medicine, orthopedics, dermatology and dental or surgical settings for many years. People most often hear about it in connection with tendon problems, joint discomfort such as knee arthritis, and hair thinning. Evidence differs by use, and for many uses it is described as limited, mixed or still being investigated.
Clinicians often talk about different PRP preparations, such as leukocyte-poor versus leukocyte-rich PRP, which differ in how many white blood cells remain in the final sample. Which type is used, if any, is a clinical judgment, and researchers continue to discuss how preparation may matter.
Many PRP uses are offered as procedures using FDA-cleared blood-processing devices, but a device being cleared for preparing a sample does not mean the FDA has approved PRP to treat a particular condition. Many uses are considered off-label or investigational. Conventional approaches such as rest, physical therapy, medications, or surgery remain part of the conversation, and PRP is not a replacement for them.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help you understand whether PRP is even a reasonable topic for your situation. A first visit generally includes a conversation about your history, a physical exam, possibly imaging, and a review of conventional options alongside any newer ones. A thoughtful clinician explains benefits, uncertainties and alternatives rather than promising results.
Good questions to bring include: What is the evidence for my specific condition? Is this use FDA-approved, cleared, or off-label? What type of PRP would be used and how is it prepared? What are the risks, and what would the aftercare and follow-up look like? What are my other options, including doing nothing for now?
You can also ask to verify the clinician's license with your state medical board, ask whether any study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight, and request written informed consent covering risks and alternatives. A provider who welcomes these questions is a good sign. Providers.plus lists licensed providers if you want a place to start.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain, a slow recovery or visible changes like hair thinning can weigh on mood and sleep, and stress and poor rest can in turn affect how the body feels and recovers. Looking at the whole person, including daily habits, movement, support and expectations, is a sensible part of any health decision.
Some people find body-based support helpful alongside medical care, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences. Others value talking through worry, frustration or health decisions with a professional, such as through Therapists.plus. These are complementary ways of caring for yourself, not substitutes for medical evaluation.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Most PRP uses are not FDA-approved for specific conditions, evidence varies, and results are never guaranteed; a licensed clinician decides what is appropriate after an evaluation.
- Watch for red flags: cure-all or 'treats everything' claims, paying to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states for treatment. Calling a treatment 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status.
- Serious conditions, including significant joint injury, tendon tears or sudden hair loss, should be guided by licensed professionals. For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
- Always verify a product's FDA status, confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board, and get written informed consent before any procedure.
Guides in this topic
Provider types
Frequently asked questions
What is PRP therapy?
PRP therapy is a procedure that uses platelet-rich plasma, a concentrated portion of your own blood, in an effort to support the body's natural repair processes. Blood is drawn, spun in a centrifuge, and the platelet-rich portion is used by a clinician. Evidence varies by use, and a licensed clinician can explain whether it is appropriate for you.
Is PRP the same as stem cell therapy?
No, PRP is not the same as stem cell therapy. PRP is a concentration of platelets from your blood, while stem cell products involve different cell types. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived HPC products for certain blood and immune disorders, and the FDA has warned about unapproved stem cell and exosome products.
Is PRP injection for tendons proven to work?
The evidence for PRP injection for tendons is described as mixed and still being studied, so no outcome can be promised. Some people and clinicians report interest in it, while others point to inconsistent research. Ask a licensed clinician how it compares with conventional options for your situation.
Can PRP help knee arthritis?
PRP for knee arthritis is an area of ongoing investigation, and it is not a cure or a proven way to regrow cartilage. Research findings have varied, and it is generally considered off-label. A licensed clinician can discuss the evidence, risks and alternatives, including conventional care.
What is the difference between leukocyte-poor and leukocyte-rich PRP?
Leukocyte-poor and leukocyte-rich PRP differ in how many white blood cells remain in the prepared sample. Clinicians sometimes consider this when choosing a preparation, and researchers continue to study whether it matters for different uses. Ask your provider which type they use and why.
What should I know about PRP injection aftercare?
PRP injection aftercare is set by your clinician, so follow the written instructions you are given rather than general advice. Instructions commonly address activity, discomfort and what symptoms should prompt a call. Ask about this before the procedure, and seek urgent care or call 911 for an emergency.
Educational resource. StemCell.biz shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.