PRP Injections (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
What Are PRP Injections?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses your body's own healing power to repair damaged tissue, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery. By concentrating the platelets from a small sample of your blood and re-injecting them into the affected area, PRP stimulates natural tissue regeneration without the need for surgery or synthetic drugs.
At Robina Town Medical Centre, Dr Alison Hartwell provides PRP injections as part of a comprehensive, personalised approach to musculoskeletal health and wellness.
How Does PRP Work?
A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine blood test. The sample is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins it at high speed to separate and concentrate the platelets. This platelet-rich plasma is then carefully injected directly into the site of injury or pain under sterile conditions.
Platelets contain growth factors that signal your body to begin healing, making PRP especially effective for chronic or slow-healing conditions.
What Can PRP Treat?
PRP therapy is used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis – knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle joints
- Tendon injuries – Achilles tendinopathy, patella tendinopathy, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer's elbow
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ligament sprains and tears
- Chronic muscle injuries
- Post-surgical recovery support
What to Expect
Before your appointment: Your doctor will review your medical history, imaging, and current treatments to determine if PRP is right for you. You may be advised to pause certain medications (such as anti-inflammatories) in the days leading up to your injection.
During the procedure: The entire process typically takes 30 minutes. Blood is drawn, processed, and injected in the same visit. A local anaesthetic may be used to keep you comfortable.
After the injection: Mild soreness, swelling, or stiffness at the injection site is normal for a few days. Most patients return to light activity within 24–48 hours. Full benefit is usually seen over 6–12 weeks as the healing process progresses.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of injections varies depending on the condition and its severity. Many patients experience significant improvement after one or two sessions. Your GP will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and monitor your progress throughout.
If you're planning for multiple sessions, it's also worth reading our guide on understanding the Medicare Safety Net to help manage your out-of-pocket costs over time.
Is PRP Right for Me?
PRP is a minimally-invasive option for patients who:
- Have not responded adequately to physiotherapy or anti-inflammatory medications
- Wish to avoid or delay surgery
- Are looking for a minimally-invasive treatment approach
PRP may not be suitable for patients with certain blood disorders, active infections, or those taking blood-thinning medications. An initial consultation will determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
Book an Appointment
If you're living with joint pain, a sports injury, or a chronic tendon condition, PRP therapy may offer the relief you've been looking for. Contact Robina Town Medical Centre to book a consultation with Dr Alison Hartwell and find out if PRP is the right next step for your recovery.
Why Choose RTMC
Caring, friendly doctors
New patients welcome
Easy parking
Quality accreditation
Unique expertise
Patient-centered care
Phone Us to Book Your Appointment
This is a service that needs to be booked by phoning the practice. Please do not book an appointment online for this service.
Robina Town Centre Practice: 5578 9000
Easy T Centre Practice: 5503 6333
Robina Town Centre
Easy T Centre