The Effects of PRP Injections for Runners: Should You Get Autologous Platelet Therapy?

Introduction

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is used by everyone from baseball players to marathon runners, with out-of-pocket costs in Taiwan ranging from NT$15,000 to NT$30,000. However, the gap between success stories and failure experiences online is enormous. What exactly is its scientific basis and evidence-based effectiveness? When is it appropriate for runners to get it? This article integrates the latest research from 2020 onward to give you the answers.

What is PRP?

PRP involves drawing approximately 20–60ml of the patient’s own blood, which is then centrifuged to obtain a high-concentration platelet plasma. Platelets contain multiple growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, IGF-1, etc.), which theoretically promote repair when injected into injured tissue.

Types of PRP

Most clinics in Taiwan use LP-PRP or LR-PRP; be sure to ask for clarification.

Evidence Levels for 5 Common Injuries

When Is It Not Recommended?

• Acute trauma (within 4 weeks of injury)
• Systemic inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Coagulation disorders
• Infection at the injection site
• Severe degeneration (e.g., KL grade 3–4 knee osteoarthritis, where effectiveness is limited)
• Unrealistic expectations of being “cured in one shot”

PRP vs. Other Options

Treatment Process

1. Assessment: Ultrasound examination to confirm the lesion
2. Blood draw: Usually 20–60ml
3. Centrifugation: 10–15 minutes
4. Injection: Ultrasound-guided precise delivery into the lesion
5. Rest: Reduce vigorous exercise for 1–2 weeks after injection
6. Rehabilitation: Combining with eccentric training enhances results
7. Follow-up: Evaluate at 4–6 weeks, top up if necessary

Post-Injection Precautions

• Increased pain within 24 hours is a normal reaction
• Avoid ice and NSAIDs (they counteract the effects of growth factors)
• Avoid vigorous running and deep squats for 1–2 weeks
• Begin progressive activity from week 2
• Evaluate results after 4–6 weeks, top up if necessary

Practical Case Scenarios for Runners

• Chronic Achilles tendon pain for 6 months, unresponsive to shockwave + eccentric training: PRP is a reasonable option
• Chronic plantar fasciitis for 1 year with severe morning pain: PRP has a high improvement rate and is worth trying
• Subacute runner’s knee for 2 months: Do strength training for 3 months first; consider PRP only if ineffective
• Early knee osteoarthritis with desire to continue running: PRP + hyaluronic acid combination may be considered
• Stress fracture healing phase: PRP has evidence supporting bone healing

Practical Advice

• Choose a physician with ultrasound-guided injection capability; precision makes a big difference
• Ask which type of PRP (LP/LR) is used and the platelet concentration multiple
• If budget allows, combining with shockwave therapy can enhance results
• Be sure to follow a 12-week rehabilitation program after injection; injections alone have limited effect
• Don’t be misled by “celebrity-level success stories”; individual variation is enormous
• If there is no improvement at all after 6 weeks, consider other treatments rather than blindly topping up

Conclusion

PRP is not a panacea, but for runners with “chronic conditions unresponsive to conservative treatment,” it is an option worth considering. Treat it as part of an overall treatment plan, combined with rehabilitation and strength training, to maximize the value of your NT$10,000–30,000 investment.

Related Reading

• Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Tendinopathy: A Critical Analysis of Systematic Reviews
• Physical Therapy for Running Injuries: When to Seek Medical Care and When to Self-Manage
• Infrared, Laser, Shockwave: A Scientific Comparison of 3 Major Sports Medicine Devices
• The Science of Compression Recovery Gear: Are Compression Pants and Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Worth Buying?