What this treatment is
See how it is done
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) for the shoulder is made from your own blood. We draw a small sample, spin it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets — which carry the body’s natural healing factors — and inject the concentrate into the shoulder under live ultrasound guidance for needle precision.
The growth factors in PRP encourage the tendon and joint tissue to repair themselves. Most patients notice gradual improvement over 4 to 8 weeks, with the full effect by about 3 months. Relief commonly lasts 3 to 9 months, and the course can be repeated.
We commonly use shoulder PRP for rotator-cuff tendinopathy, partial cuff tears, and other long-standing shoulder tendon problems — often when steroid injections have stopped giving relief.
OHIP coverage
PRP falls outside the OHIP fee schedule. Patients pay out of pocket. We provide an itemised receipt for private-insurance reimbursement where applicable.
What this treats
- rotator cuff tendinopathy
- partial rotator cuff tears
- chronic shoulder tendon pain
- shoulder osteoarthritis
Conditions this treats
Common diagnoses we use this procedure for. Tap one to read more.
Before, during, and after — what to do
Before your appointment
Bring your OHIP card and any imaging reports we asked for. There is nothing special you need to do beforehand for this procedure.
On the day
Wear loose, comfortable clothing — easy to roll up sleeves or pant legs, easy to lie face-down on the table. Plan to be at the clinic about 45 minutes total. You can drive yourself unless we told you otherwise. If you are anxious about the procedure, tell us — we will walk you through every step.
After the procedure
Resume normal activity as you feel comfortable. If anything feels off in the next few days, call us — that is what we are here for.
When to call us: Call us right away — or go to the nearest emergency department — if you develop a high fever, severe new pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, weakness in a limb, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These are rare but worth knowing.
What happens on the day
We use live ultrasound to see exactly where the needle is going. The procedure itself takes about 45 minutes, plus a little time to get you positioned and a short rest afterwards. Most people feel relief lasting 3 to 9 months.