Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections involve taking a sample of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting it into the shoulder joint or tendon. The high concentration of platelets and growth factors helps promote healing and reduce inflammation, particularly for conditions like tendinopathy or mild arthritis.
Mild discomfort can occur during the injection. Temporary pain or swelling may be experienced at the injection site after the procedure.
PRP injections are effective for reducing pain and promoting healing, especially when combined with other treatments like physiotherapy. It is a good option for patients seeking non-surgical relief for shoulder conditions.
Yes, like any medical treatment, PRP injections for shoulder pain can have side effects, although they’re generally mild and short-lived. Because PRP uses your own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or serious complications is very low. That said, it’s normal to experience some soreness, stiffness, or swelling in the shoulder after the injection—especially in the first 24 to 48 hours. This is part of the body’s natural healing response and usually settles without any need for treatment. In rare cases, patients might develop bruising at the injection site or feel increased discomfort for a few days. There’s also a very small risk of infection, as with any procedure involving a needle, but this is uncommon when proper sterile technique is used. Some people worry about tendon or joint damage, but when performed correctly by a skilled specialist like Dr. Oliver, PRP is considered a safe and well-tolerated treatment. If you notice increasing pain, redness, warmth, or fever after the injection, it’s important to seek medical advice, as these could be signs of infection. Most people, however, experience only minor side effects and go on to benefit from reduced shoulder pain and improved mobility over time.
Yes, there are some important activity restrictions after a PRP injection for shoulder pain. Immediately following the injection, most patients are advised to rest the shoulder for at least 24 to 48 hours. During this period, it’s best to avoid any lifting, overhead reaching, or strenuous movements that could place stress on the area. Some mild soreness, swelling, or stiffness is common, and this usually settles on its own within a day or two. While you’re recovering, it’s important not to take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin, as these can interfere with the inflammatory healing process triggered by the PRP. Paracetamol is generally considered safe if you need something for pain relief. Cold packs can also be used for comfort in the early phase. As the days progress, your doctor may suggest gradually reintroducing gentle movement or beginning physiotherapy, depending on how you’re feeling and the nature of your shoulder condition. Returning to full activity too soon can undermine the benefits of the injection, so pacing your recovery is key. Dr. Oliver will give you specific advice based on your condition and goals, helping ensure you heal properly and gain the most from your PRP treatment.
Yes, you can take painkillers after PRP injections, but it’s important to avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin for at least 7–10 days before and after the injection. That’s because PRP works by triggering a controlled inflammatory response—part of how it promotes healing. Taking NSAIDs can blunt this effect and potentially reduce the treatment’s effectiveness. However, if you experience discomfort or soreness after the injection (which is common and usually mild), you can safely use paracetamol (Panadol) as an alternative. Cold packs and rest are also helpful in managing any post-injection pain. The discomfort usually settles within a day or two, and many patients find they don’t need strong pain relief. If pain persists beyond a few days or worsens, it’s best to check in with your doctor to rule out other causes. Dr. Oliver will provide clear aftercare instructions tailored to your needs, including which medications are safe to take and when. Following these guidelines helps ensure the best possible outcome from your PRP treatment.
PRP injections can, in some cases, help patients avoid or delay shoulder surgery—especially when used early in the course of treatment for conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy, shoulder bursitis, or partial tendon tears. By promoting natural tissue healing and reducing inflammation, PRP may improve pain and shoulder function enough to allow patients to return to daily activities without needing an operation. It’s important to understand, however, that PRP isn’t a cure-all and doesn’t replace surgery in every case. For example, if there’s a **full-thickness rotator cuff tear**, **significant joint degeneration**, or **structural damage that won’t heal on its own**, surgery may still be the most effective option. In these situations, PRP might be used to support recovery after surgery rather than avoid it altogether. For people who aren’t surgical candidates—or who want to try conservative treatments first—PRP offers a minimally invasive option with relatively low risk. Many patients experience meaningful improvement, particularly when PRP is combined with physiotherapy and proper load management. Dr. Oliver will assess your shoulder condition carefully and help you understand whether PRP could realistically reduce the need for surgery, or whether other interventions might lead to a better long-term outcome.
The relief from PRP injections for shoulder pain can last **several months to over a year**, depending on your condition, the severity of the injury, and how your body responds to the treatment. Many patients experience noticeable improvement within the first 4 to 6 weeks, with the benefits continuing to build over time as the tissue heals. For mild to moderate shoulder issues like tendinopathy or bursitis, a single PRP injection may provide sustained relief for 6 to 12 months or longer, especially when combined with physiotherapy and activity modification. In some cases, a short series of injections may lead to even longer-lasting results. However, the effects aren’t permanent, particularly if the underlying cause—such as repetitive strain or biomechanical imbalances—isn’t addressed. If shoulder pain returns after initial improvement, a repeat PRP injection may be considered, but only after a careful reassessment. While PRP can delay or even avoid surgery for some people, it's not always a lifelong solution. Dr. Oliver will monitor your progress and guide you on maintaining long-term results through rehabilitation, strengthening, and lifestyle changes tailored to your specific shoulder condition.
There’s no universal limit to how many PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections a patient can receive for shoulder pain, but most people respond within 1 to 3 sessions, spaced a few weeks apart. The exact number depends on your condition, how well you respond to the first injection, and your doctor’s advice. For issues like rotator cuff tendinopathy, shoulder bursitis, or partial tears, some patients notice improvement after just one injection. Others may need a short series of injections to achieve lasting relief. If there's no benefit after two or three treatments, further PRP might not be worthwhile. Repeat injections are typically only recommended if symptoms return or if a previous injection provided noticeable, but temporary, relief. PRP isn’t meant to be used indefinitely or in place of other treatments such as physiotherapy, activity modification, or—in some cases—surgery. Always speak with your treating specialist before planning multiple rounds of PRP, especially to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific diagnosis. While PRP is generally considered low risk (as it uses your own blood), overuse without clear benefit can delay more effective treatments. Dr. Oliver will discuss the most suitable treatment frequency based on your response and goals for recovery.
The number of PRP injections needed for shoulder pain varies depending on the severity of the condition, how your body responds to the treatment, and the specific diagnosis being treated. For many patients, a single injection is enough to achieve noticeable relief, especially in cases of mild to moderate tendinopathy or bursitis. Others may benefit from a short series of two or three injections, typically spaced a few weeks apart. Dr. Oliver will usually start with one injection and monitor your progress over the following weeks. If you experience a good response—such as reduced pain, improved range of motion, or better shoulder function—additional injections may not be necessary. However, if improvement is only partial or temporary, further PRP sessions may be considered. It’s important to remember that PRP is not a quick fix but part of a broader treatment approach. Physiotherapy, load management, and lifestyle changes often play an essential role in supporting recovery. The aim is not just pain relief, but also long-term shoulder health and function. Ultimately, the number of injections you need will be determined through ongoing assessment and open discussion with Dr. Oliver, ensuring the treatment is tailored to your individual progress and goals.
Results from PRP injections for shoulder pain don’t usually appear immediately. Most patients begin to notice improvement within 2 to 6 weeks after the injection, although this can vary depending on the condition being treated and the severity of the injury. Unlike cortisone injections, which can provide quick but often short-term relief, PRP works by stimulating the body’s natural healing process. This means it takes time for inflammation to settle, for new tissue to form, and for pain to gradually reduce. Some people may experience a slight increase in discomfort in the first few days after the injection—this is usually a normal part of the healing response and tends to resolve quickly. In many cases, patients report steady improvement in pain levels, shoulder movement, and overall function over several weeks. The full benefits may not be felt until around 6 to 12 weeks after treatment. Ongoing physiotherapy and activity modification can enhance the effects and help maintain long-term results. Dr. Oliver will monitor your recovery and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If PRP is working well, further injections may not be required. If progress stalls, other treatment options may be explored to ensure you're moving in the right direction.