8 June 2026 · By Dra. Alba Solís
PRP for sports injuries: what to expect (and what not)
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) has become very famous because it's used by elite athletes, and that has created sometimes unrealistic expectations. Let me be honest: it is neither miraculous nor suitable for any injury, but, well indicated, it is a very valuable tool.
What exactly is it?
It is obtained from your own blood: we centrifuge it to concentrate the platelets, which release growth factors, and inject it guided by ultrasound into the injured area. As it's your own biological material, the risk of rejection is minimal. You can read more on the treatment page: PRP.
Which injuries it usually helps
- Chronic tendinopathies (patellar, Achilles, tennis elbow).
- Some muscle injuries and sports injuries.
- Mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis, as supportive treatment.
When I would NOT recommend it
If what you have is a tear that needs surgery, very advanced osteoarthritis or an injury that would benefit more from another treatment, I'll tell you. I'd rather not offer you a PRP that won't help you. The key is the prior ultrasound diagnosis: without knowing well what's wrong, injecting is going in blind.
PRP doesn't work alone
A common mistake is thinking the injection fixes everything. PRP creates the opportunity for the tissue to recover, but good results come when it's combined with exercise and reconditioning. That's why I work alongside your physiotherapist.
Frequently asked questions
Is PRP doping?
No. PRP is not prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency when used for therapeutic purposes. Even so, if you compete at a high level, it's worth mentioning it to make sure everything fits your federation's rules.
How many sessions do I need?
It depends on the injury. Some improve with a single injection and others need a small course. After assessing you with ultrasound, I give you a realistic estimate, without selling you extra sessions.
Does it hurt and when can I train again?
It's an ultrasound-guided injection, uncomfortable but well tolerated. There are usually a few days of local reaction; the return to sport is gradual and we set it according to your injury, almost always alongside exercise.