Understanding PRP Therapy for Shoulder Pain: A Regenerative Approach to Healing

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints seen in clinical practice, affecting people of all ages. Whether it stems from overuse, injury, or degenerative conditions, chronic shoulder discomfort can significantly impact quality of life. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a promising regenerative treatment, offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgery or long-term medication use.

What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?

Platelet-Rich Plasma is an autologous (self-derived) treatment made by drawing a patient’s blood, processing it in a centrifuge, and concentrating the platelets and growth factors naturally found in plasma. Platelets are best known for their role in clotting, but they also release bioactive proteins that:

• Stimulate tissue repair

• Modulate inflammation

• Support new blood vessel formation

• Encourage regeneration of tendons, cartilage, and ligaments

Once concentrated, the PRP is re-injected into the target area—such as the shoulder joint or surrounding soft tissue—where it stimulates the body’s own healing mechanisms.

How PRP Supports Shoulder Healing

The shoulder is a complex joint made up of bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles that allow for a wide range of motion. Because of its mobility, it’s also vulnerable to injury and wear. PRP is often used to treat:

• Rotator cuff tears or tendinopathy

• Biceps tendinitis

• Shoulder impingement syndrome

• Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

• Shoulder osteoarthritis

• Labral tears or SLAP lesions

When injected into these injured areas, PRP can enhance tissue repair, reduce chronic inflammation, and promote more complete and durable healing.

What Does the PRP Procedure Involve?

1. Blood Draw – About 10-20 mL of your blood is collected, similar to a routine lab test.

2. Centrifugation – The sample is spun at high speed to separate the platelet-rich layer.

3. Injection – Under ultrasound guidance, the PRP is precisely injected into the affected shoulder structure.

   
   

The entire process takes around 45–60 minutes and is performed in-office. There is no need for general anesthesia or extended downtime.

Evidence-Based Benefits of PRP Therapy for Shoulder Pain

• Improved healing: PRP enhances tendon and ligament repair compared to rest or steroid injections.

• Reduced pain: Clinical trials show significant pain reduction, particularly for rotator cuff injuries and osteoarthritis.

• Non-surgical option: Many patients use PRP to delay or avoid surgery altogether.

• Low risk: Since PRP is derived from your own blood, the risk of adverse reaction is minimal.

Several studies have demonstrated positive outcomes with PRP for chronic shoulder conditions. A 2021 meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine concluded that PRP was more effective than corticosteroids in improving pain and function over the long term in rotator cuff tendinopathy.

What to Expect After PRP Treatment

Some mild soreness, stiffness, or swelling is normal for a few days post-injection. This is part of the inflammatory response that initiates healing. Most patients resume light activity within a few days, though high-impact or overhead movements may be restricted temporarily.

Improvement typically occurs over 2–6 weeks, with continued gains in strength and mobility over several months. Depending on the severity of the condition, 1–3 sessions may be recommended.

Is PRP Right for You?

PRP is best suited for individuals who:

• Have chronic shoulder pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy or rest

• Want to avoid or delay surgery

• Are seeking a more natural, regenerative approach to healing

• Are not good candidates for corticosteroid injections or want to avoid their side effects

At our clinic, we assess each patient holistically—considering biomechanics, posture, systemic inflammation, and nutritional status—to support comprehensive musculoskeletal recovery.

Interested in PRP Therapy for Shoulder Pain?

If you're struggling with persistent shoulder discomfort, PRP therapy may offer a safe and effective path to recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if this regenerative treatment is right for you.