What it is
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from a small sample of your own blood. The sample is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets, which are blood components involved in the body's natural repair signaling. The concentrate is then used by a clinician, sometimes with ultrasound guidance, near the area of concern.
People most often ask about PRP for tendons in places like the elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, and heel. Tendons connect muscle to bone, and they tend to heal slowly, which is why people look into a range of options for them.
PRP is not the same as a stem cell therapy, though the two are often discussed together. Regulatory status can differ by how a product is prepared and used, so ask a provider how the FDA treats the specific product and use being offered. The only FDA-approved stem-cell products in the U.S. 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
Tendon problems have long been approached with a mix of relative rest, activity changes, and guided exercise or physical therapy. Many clinicians also use supportive measures such as bracing, ice or heat, and over-the-counter options when appropriate for the individual.
When symptoms persist, a clinician may discuss other options, which can include injections of various kinds or, in some cases, surgery. Which options make sense depends on the tendon involved, the nature of the problem, and a person's overall health.
PRP has been used in sports medicine and orthopedic settings for some time, and research on it for tendons is ongoing. The evidence is limited and mixed for some uses, and results can vary from person to person. A clinician can explain what is and is not well established.
How the right provider may help
A good provider starts with an evaluation: your history, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging. The goal is to understand what is actually going on before any procedure is discussed. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you, and PRP may or may not be among the options.
A visit is generally a conversation. A provider may explain the options, including non-injection approaches, and the possible benefits, risks, and unknowns. Any benefit is a possibility, never a promise, and a provider who is open about that is a good sign.
Helpful questions to ask: What is the FDA status of what you are offering and how it is prepared? What does the evidence say for my specific condition? What are the risks and alternatives? Is any study registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight? How can I confirm your license with the state medical board? Will I receive written informed consent covering risks and alternatives?
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain can disturb sleep, mood, and motivation, and stress and tension can in turn shape how the body feels and recovers. Looking at the whole person, including daily habits, movement, rest, and support, can be part of a thoughtful approach to tendon concerns.
Some people find body-based support helpful, such as the approaches listed through Somatic Experiences. Others value talking through the frustration of a long recovery with a licensed counselor through Therapists.plus. These are complements to, not substitutes for, medical evaluation, and no approach is better or worse for everyone.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Educational only: this page is not medical advice, and a licensed clinician should guide decisions about your care.
- Verify the FDA status of any product, confirm the clinician's license with your state medical board, and get written informed consent covering risks and alternatives.
- Watch for red flags: cure-all or 'treats everything' claims, paying to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials offered in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states for treatment. 'Holistic' or 'alternative' framing never changes FDA status.
- For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988. Sudden severe pain, inability to move a limb, or signs of infection need prompt medical attention.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a PRP injection for tendons?
A PRP injection for tendons is a procedure in which a clinician concentrates platelets from your own blood and places them near an affected tendon. Whether it is appropriate depends on an evaluation by a licensed clinician. Evidence for tendon use is limited and still developing.
Is PRP the same as stem cell therapy?
No, PRP is a blood-derived concentrate of platelets, while stem cell products involve cells. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived HPC products for certain blood and immune disorders. Most clinic stem cell and exosome offerings are not FDA-approved, so ask any provider about the status of what they offer.
Does PRP for tendons work?
Research is ongoing, and the evidence is limited and mixed for some tendon uses. Experiences vary, and no outcome can be promised. A licensed clinician can explain what is known for your specific situation.
What should I ask before getting a PRP injection?
Ask about the FDA status of the product and its preparation, the evidence for your condition, the risks, and the alternatives. Confirm the clinician's license with the state medical board and request written informed consent. If a study is involved, check that it is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight.
What kind of provider offers PRP for tendons?
PRP is offered by some clinicians in sports medicine, orthopedics, and regenerative medicine practices. Credentials and experience vary, so verify the license and ask about training. You can browse licensed providers through Providers.plus.
What are the red flags with regenerative clinics?
Be cautious of cure-all claims, testimonials in place of evidence, and requests to pay to join a 'clinical trial'. Pressure to travel abroad or across states is also a warning sign. Calling a treatment 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status.
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.