What it is
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Platelets are small blood cells best known for helping blood clot, and they also carry natural signaling proteins. Plasma is the liquid part of blood. In PRP therapy, a small sample of your blood is drawn and spun in a device called a centrifuge so the platelets are concentrated in a smaller amount of plasma.
The resulting preparation is then used by a clinician, sometimes by injection and sometimes applied in other ways, depending on the setting. Because it comes from your own blood, it is often called an autologous preparation. That is different from a stem cell treatment, even though PRP is often mentioned in the same conversations about regenerative medicine. PRP is not a stem cell product.
Regulatory status matters here. The devices used to prepare PRP are generally cleared by the FDA for making the concentrate, but that does not mean the FDA has approved PRP as a treatment for any particular joint, tendon, skin, or hair condition. Many uses are considered off-label or investigational, and the evidence for them varies and is still developing. A licensed clinician can explain how this applies to you.
How it’s traditionally been approached
PRP has most often been discussed in orthopedic and sports medicine practices, where clinicians have explored it for certain tendon, ligament, and joint concerns. It has also been used in aesthetic and hair-restoration settings and in some surgical contexts. How and why it is used differs widely from one practice to another.
Traditionally, PRP is considered one option among many. Other approaches people commonly discuss with their clinicians include rest, physical therapy, exercise, medications, bracing, other injections, and surgery. Each has its own considerations, and none is right for everyone.
Researchers continue to study PRP, and results have been mixed or still emerging for many uses. Because preparations differ in how they are made and used, it can be hard to compare one result with another. This is why it helps to talk with a licensed clinician rather than rely on general claims.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help you understand whether PRP is even a reasonable thing to explore for your situation. A visit generally starts with a conversation about your history, your symptoms, and your goals, often followed by a physical exam and possibly imaging or other evaluation. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you, and no outcome is promised.
A good provider will explain things plainly, including what is known, what is uncertain, and what the alternatives are. You can ask about the regulatory status of the preparation and device, whether your use would be off-label, and what the possible risks are. You can also ask for written informed consent that covers risks and alternatives.
Helpful questions to bring: Is this use supported by evidence, and how strong is it? Is any study I am being offered registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight? Is your license active with the state medical board? What would you recommend if I decide not to do this? Providers listed through Providers.plus are licensed, but it is still wise to verify credentials yourself.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect one another. Ongoing pain or a limiting injury can raise stress, disrupt sleep, and change how you move, and stress can in turn make the body feel more tense or sensitive. Looking at the whole person, including movement, rest, emotional well-being, and daily habits, may give a fuller picture than focusing on one area alone.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helps them tune in to tension and stress held in the body. Others value talking through worry, frustration, or the stress of recovery with a counselor, such as through Therapists.plus. These are complementary ways of caring for yourself and are not replacements for medical evaluation.
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 only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation.
- PRP is not a stem cell product. 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, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, adipose, and exosome products are not FDA-approved, no exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products.
- 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. Calling something 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status.
- For serious conditions, licensed professionals should guide your care. For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Frequently asked questions
What is PRP therapy?
PRP therapy uses platelet-rich plasma, a concentrate made from a person's own blood, which a clinician may use in certain orthopedic, sports medicine, aesthetic, or hair-related settings. Blood is drawn, spun to concentrate the platelets, and then used by the clinician. Many uses are off-label or investigational, so it is best to discuss it with a licensed clinician.
Is PRP therapy the same as stem cell therapy?
No, PRP is not a stem cell therapy. PRP concentrates platelets and plasma 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, used in specialist transplant settings.
Is PRP therapy FDA-approved?
The FDA has cleared certain devices used to prepare PRP, but that is not the same as approving PRP as a treatment for a specific condition. Many uses are considered off-label or investigational. Ask your provider to explain the regulatory status of both the device and the intended use.
Where does the PRP come from?
PRP is typically made from your own blood, drawn by a clinician or trained staff member. This is called an autologous preparation. The exact way it is prepared can differ between practices, so it is reasonable to ask how it is made.
Does PRP therapy work?
The evidence varies by use and is still developing, and results are not guaranteed. Some uses have been studied more than others, and findings have been mixed or limited for many. A licensed clinician can explain what is known and not known for your situation.
How do I find a qualified PRP provider?
Start by looking for a licensed clinician, such as through Providers.plus, and confirm their license with your state medical board. Ask about evidence, risks, alternatives, and written informed consent. Be cautious of cure-all claims, testimonials in place of evidence, or pressure to pay quickly or travel for care.
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.