PRP for joints

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a prepared autologous blood concentrate with increased blood platelets and growth factors. In orthopedics, PRP can be injected specifically into the affected joint to support the body's own repair processes - especially in cases of stress-related irritation and early to moderate arthrosis. As a conservative, non-surgical procedure, PRP complements proven measures such as exercise therapy, weight management, pain regulation and everyday adjustments that are gentle on the joints. We will advise you personally in our practice at Dorotheenstrasse 48, 22301 Hamburg, whether PRP makes sense in your situation and what alternatives exist.

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Regenerative, movement-oriented and evidence-based.
Contents
  1. What is PRP and how does it work?
  2. When can PRP be useful for joints?
  3. Which joints is PRP used for?
  4. Process of the PRP treatment in our practice
  5. Preparation and aftercare
  6. Evidence and guidelines
  7. Risks and side effects
  8. When is PRP not suitable?
  9. Conservative alternatives and supplements
  10. Costs and reimbursement
  11. Why PRP treatment with us in Hamburg-Winterhude?
  12. More PRP topics and subpages
  13. Quick checklist: Is PRP right for me?

What is PRP and how does it work?

PRP (also called “platelet-rich plasma”) is obtained from a small amount of your own blood. After brief centrifugation, the plasma contains concentrated platelets with growth factors and cytokines that can modulate healing and regeneration processes. When used in the joint, PRP aims to reduce inflammatory activity and support tissue homeostasis.

  • Autologous blood procedure: without exogenous additives
  • Local injection into the affected joint
  • Goal: Inflammation modulation, pain relief, functional improvement

Important: PRP does not replace missing cartilage tissue and cannot “cure” advanced osteoarthritis. However, if the indication is appropriate, it can relieve symptoms and make activities easier.

When can PRP be useful for joints?

PRP is primarily used as a supplement in orthopedics when basic conservative measures have already been started and further relief is desired. The decision is made individually based on the anamnesis, examination and imaging.

  • Early to moderate osteoarthritis (e.g. knee, hip, shoulder, ankle)
  • Joint irritation after overload without acute serious injury
  • Persistent pain despite training therapy and everyday adjustments
  • Patients who want to avoid or delay surgery

Before each PRP treatment, we examine alternatives, contraindications and realistic expectations. If the joint destruction is advanced, other therapeutic options are usually more useful.

Which joints is PRP used for?

In principle, PRP can be used in large and small joints. The evidence varies depending on the joint and stage of the disease. We discuss benefits and limitations transparently.

  • Knee: most common indication for early to moderate gonarthrosis
  • Hip: selected cases of coxarthrosis
  • Shoulder: e.g. B. with accompanying osteoarthritis and irritations
  • Ankle joint: for post-traumatic irritation syndromes and early osteoarthritis
  • Wrist and finger joints: in individual cases, after careful indication

Specific PRP concepts are used for ligament, tendon and muscle problems (see subpages).

Process of the PRP treatment in our practice

Often 2-3 injections are given 1-4 weeks apart. The scheme depends on the joint, symptoms and progression.

Preparation and aftercare

  • Before: no febrile infections; Only change blood-thinning medication after consultation.
  • 24-48 hours of protection of the treated joint; then gradual increase in load.
  • Accompanying: targeted physiotherapy, muscular compensation training, weight management.
  • Cooling for irritation symptoms; Anti-inflammatory medications only after consultation.

Evidence and guidelines

Studies show a relevant symptomatic improvement in some patients compared to placebo or hyaluronic acid for PRP in early to moderate stages of knee osteoarthritis. Results vary depending on the PRP protocol (leukocyte percentage, number of injections), degree of osteoarthritis and concomitant therapy. For other joints the data is more heterogeneous.

Guidelines sometimes assess PRP as an option with limited or moderate evidence, but emphasize the need for careful indication and its integration into an overall conservative concept. We are guided by current evidence and openly discuss opportunities and limitations.

Risks and side effects

PRP is an autologous blood procedure and is generally well tolerated. However, side effects are possible.

  • Temporary increase in pain or swelling (irritation phase in the first few days)
  • Hematoma or tenderness at the injection site
  • Very rarely infections or allergy-like reactions
  • Insufficient effect despite correct application

We work under sterile conditions and inject with image support wherever possible to increase safety and precision.

When is PRP not suitable?

  • Acute systemic infections or local skin infections at the injection site
  • Severe coagulation disorders
  • Uncontrolled underlying internal diseases
  • Advanced osteoarthritis with pronounced joint destruction (usually different strategies here)
  • Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use only after strict individual consideration

Conservative alternatives and supplements

PRP is not a replacement for consistent conservative basic therapy. The greatest benefit often comes from combining several building blocks.

  • Physio and exercise therapy (strength, coordination, mobility, gait)
  • Stress control in everyday life and sport, if necessary aids/orthotics
  • Weight management if you are overweight
  • Pain therapy as needed and guidelines (e.g. time-limited NSAIDs)
  • Injection alternatives: hyaluronic acid or preparations containing cortisone (short-term, indication-related)
  • Behavioral training and education for joint-friendly strategies

Costs and reimbursement

PRP is usually a self-pay service (IGeL). Statutory health insurance companies usually do not cover the costs. Private payers partially reimburse depending on the contract and justification.

Before you begin, you will receive a transparent explanation of the costs from us, including possible series treatments. Together we discuss the benefits in relation to the effort and alternatives.

Why PRP treatment with us in Hamburg-Winterhude?

  • Holistic, conservative approach with clear indication testing
  • Experienced team, image-guided injection techniques
  • Individual training and everyday recommendations instead of isolated injection therapy
  • Central location: Dorotheenstraße 48, 22301 Hamburg
  • Transparent information about benefits, risks and alternatives

More PRP topics and subpages

Depending on the symptoms, specialized PRP concepts may make sense. Find out more here:

  • PRP for muscles, tendons & ligaments
  • PRP for intervertebral discs and nerves
  • Hybrid therapy (e.g. PRP combined with hyaluronic acid) – only after a clear indication

We will advise you which option is suitable in your individual case and what alternatives exist.

Quick checklist: Is PRP right for me?

  • Is there early to moderate osteoarthritis or joint irritation?
  • Have conservative basic measures started and will they be continued?
  • Are there no contraindications (infections, clotting, etc.)?
  • Are realistic goals defined (pain relief, better function)?
  • Has the cost issue been clarified?

Related links

PRP for muscles, tendons & ligaments Hybrid therapy PRP for intervertebral discs and nerves Hyaluronic acid injection Conservative treatment of osteoarthritis

Frequently asked questions

Many people feel a change in 2-6 weeks, sometimes earlier, sometimes later. An irritation phase with short-term more pain in the first few days is possible.

Often 2-3 injections 1-4 weeks apart. The protocol is determined individually and depends on the joint, symptoms and course.

PRP cannot fundamentally replace surgery. It can relieve discomfort and save time. In the case of advanced osteoarthritis, surgical procedures are often more effective.

As an autologous blood therapy, PRP is usually well tolerated. However, there are risks such as infection (rare), bruising or temporary increase in pain. Careful technique reduces risks.

Statutory health insurance companies generally do not reimburse PRP. Private reimbursement is possible but depends on the contract. We clarify the costs transparently in advance.

We recommend taking it easy for the first 24-48 hours. Afterwards, it makes sense to gradually return to work with activities that are gentle on the joints, tailored to your symptoms.

Advice on PRP for joints in Hamburg

Together we will check whether PRP makes sense for your joint and which conservative components can also help. Appointment at Dorotheenstraße 48, 22301 Hamburg.

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Information does not replace an individual examination. If there are any warning signs, please seek medical advice.

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