PRP Injections Pain Management & Procedure Guide
If you’ve suffered an injury, have arthritis, or a muscle strain, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy can help jump-start healing by using your own blood. Here’s a detailed look at what PRP injections do, how they’re done, and why most of Dr. Matthewson’s patients tolerate them comfortably—with numbing options available if needed.
What Is PRP and How Does It Help?
PRP is created by drawing a small blood sample, spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets and growth factors (3–5× levels), and injecting it directly into the injured area—like a tendon, joint, or muscle. This process:
- Boosts soft tissue repair and inflammation modulation
- Supports healing in areas with limited natural blood flow, such as tendons or cartilage
What to Expect During the Procedure
- A blood draw (similar to a routine lab test)
- Centrifugation to separate PRP
- An injection of PRP into the treatment site, often guided by ultrasound for precision.
The whole process typically takes 30–60 minutes, with most patients tolerating it well.
Will It Hurt?
Most patients report only mild discomfort—such as pressure or ache during the injection—not severe pain. Swelling or soreness is common for 1–5 days afterward, as expected from a controlled healing response
Numbing Options (for Extra Comfort)
If you’d prefer to minimize any discomfort:
1. Topical Numbing Cream
- Applied 30–60 minutes before the injection
- Contains lidocaine, benzocaine, or tetracaine
- Reduces needle-stick pain on the skin, ideal for those with low pain tolerance
2. Local Anesthetic Injection
- A small amount of lidocaine can be injected under the skin to numb deeper tissues
- Studies show lidocaine (at small doses) does not impair PRP effectiveness
Many clinics offer both, but most patients manage fine with just the topical cream or even no numbing at all.
Why Dr. Matthewson May Suggest Numbing
- Easier to remain still for an accurate injection
- Helps patient comfort and confidence
- Particularly helpful if PRP is being used in more sensitive areas like the elbow or shoulder
What Happens After the Injection
- Rest for 24–48 hours; avoid NSAIDs for up to a week since they may reduce PRP activity
- Start gentle range-of-motion exercises after a day or two
- The rehabilitation plan typically begins 1–2 weeks out to rebuild strength and function.
Why Choose PRP?
- Non-surgical alternative with lower risk than surgery or steroid injections
- Harnesses your body’s natural growth factors
- Ideal for tendon, ligament, and chronic joint conditions
PRP injections are a safe, minimally invasive option for musculoskeletal healing. Most patients find it tolerable—even without numbing—but topical and local anesthetics are available for extra comfort when needed. PRP can offer a healing boost without the downtime or risks of surgery.