PRP for Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries can be frustrating, limiting everything from lifting to sleeping comfortably. Whether you're dealing with rotator cuff tendinopathy, bursitis, or labral pain, you're not alone—and there's a promising treatment gaining traction: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

If you’ve heard about PRP but aren’t quite sure what it is or whether it works, this blog breaks it down for you.

🧬 What is PRP?

PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma—a concentrated portion of your own blood that’s rich in platelets and growth factors. These are the natural "first responders" in your body’s healing process.

Here’s how it works:

1. A small amount of your blood is drawn.

2. It’s spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components.

3. The concentrated platelets are injected into the injured shoulder area under ultrasound guidance.

🦴 Conditions PRP Can Help in the Shoulder

PRP is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it’s been shown to be particularly effective for certain chronic or hard-to-heal shoulder injuries, such as:

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy (chronic tendon pain or degeneration)

• Partial-thickness rotator cuff tears

•  Post-operative healing support

PRP is often considered when:

• Physical therapy has plateaued

• Anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids have failed

• Surgery is not desirable or necessary (yet)

📊 What Does the Research Say?

• Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: Multiple studies show PRP may reduce pain and improve function better than corticosteroids over the long term—with fewer side effects.

• Partial Rotator Cuff Tears: PRP may help promote tendon healing and delay or avoid surgical intervention when used early.

• Recovery Enhancement: PRP may support tendon remodeling and reduce inflammation post-operatively.

🧠 While not all studies are conclusive, growing evidence supports PRP as a promising tool for managing persistent shoulder pain.

✅ Benefits of PRP

• Uses your own cells—no synthetic drugs

• Minimally invasive, performed in-office

• May reduce the need for repeated cortisone injections or surgery

• Accelerates healing in select chronic injuries

• Can be combined with physical therapy for a comprehensive approach

❗Things to Consider

• PRP is not for complete tendon tears or structural instability

• Results may take 2–6 weeks to be noticeable

• Best outcomes occur with appropriate rehab guidance

🕒 What to Expect During and After Treatment

1. Preparation: You'll stop anti-inflammatory medications 5 days before treatment.

2. Procedure: It takes about 30–45 minutes total, including prep and injection.

3. Recovery: Mild soreness is common and guided rehab is important.

4. Follow-up: PT is a great adjunct for the injection - keep it up.

💬 Final Thoughts

PRP is not a magic bullet—but for many shoulder injuries, it can be a powerful catalyst.
It’s especially valuable for active individuals who want to support healing, reduce pain, and potentially avoid surgery.

Interested in PRP for your shoulder?
Schedule a consult with our team to find out if you're a good candidate.

 💻 www.cloganmd.com