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Nolan Horner, MD

Patient Resources

PRP injections

Patient-level information about platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for common musculoskeletal conditions.

Sterile PRP syringe and centrifuge vial on a medical tray

Credentials and training

  • Board certified

    Orthopedic surgery

  • Fellowship trained

    Sports medicine & shoulder, Rush University Medical Center

  • Residency

    Orthopedic surgery, McMaster University

  • Professional teams

    Chicago Bulls, White Sox and Fire experience

  • Research

    Over 100 peer-reviewed publications

More about Dr. HornerResearch and academic workPatient reviews

What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is a concentrated portion of your own blood that contains a high level of platelets. Platelets are rich in growth factors and signaling proteins that help the body respond to injury. When precisely injected into a damaged area, PRP may support the body's natural healing process for certain tendon, ligament and joint conditions.

Because PRP is prepared from your own blood, it is considered an autologous treatment. It is often used alongside activity modification, physical therapy and other conservative measures.

How it works

  1. 01

    Blood draw

    A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine lab test.

  2. 02

    Concentration

    The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins it to separate and concentrate the platelets.

  3. 03

    Precise injection

    The concentrated PRP is injected into the affected area under sterile technique, often with ultrasound guidance.

  4. 04

    Recovery and follow-up

    Most patients return to light activity quickly. A structured rehab plan helps optimize results.

Conditions PRP may be used for

PRP is not appropriate for every patient or every condition. After a full evaluation, we can discuss whether it is a reasonable option for your specific problem.

  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Patellar tendinopathy
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Hip/gluteal tendinopathy
  • Hamstring tendon injuries
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Hip osteoarthritis
  • Shoulder osteoarthritis
  • Other chronic tendon or ligament irritations

Pricing

$400

Per PRP injection

PRP injections are not currently covered by insurance plans, which is why they are offered at a self-pay price. Payment is due at the time of the procedure. If additional imaging, follow-up visits or physical therapy are recommended, those are billed separately according to your insurance and standard office policies.

What to expect

The visit typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. You may feel some soreness or pressure at the injection site for a few days afterward, which is a normal part of the inflammatory healing response. Ice, rest and activity modification are usually recommended for a short period after the injection.

Some patients notice improvement within a few weeks, while others require more time. Depending on the condition, a second injection may be discussed at a follow-up visit. Results vary, and PRP is not a guaranteed alternative to surgery when surgery is clearly indicated.

If you are on blood thinners, have an active infection, or have certain medical conditions, PRP may not be appropriate. We will review your full medical history before scheduling.

Related care

Common questions

Is PRP covered by insurance?

No. PRP is not currently covered by insurance plans, which is why it is offered as a self-pay treatment at $400 per injection. If a covered option is reasonable for your condition, that will be discussed first.

How long does the appointment take?

Plan for roughly 45 to 60 minutes. Blood is drawn in the office, spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injected — often with ultrasound guidance — into the treated area.

How soon might I notice a difference?

PRP works gradually. Most patients who respond describe improvement over four to twelve weeks rather than immediately, and soreness for a few days after the injection is common.

How many injections will I need?

Many conditions are treated with a single injection and then reassessed. Some tendon problems benefit from a second injection, but that decision is made after seeing how the first one worked.

Can I have PRP if I am already scheduled for surgery?

PRP is generally used to try to avoid or delay surgery, not alongside an imminent operation. If surgery is already the right answer for your problem, PRP is unlikely to change that.

Who should not have PRP?

PRP is not appropriate during active infection, with certain blood or platelet disorders, or in some cancer and pregnancy situations. Your history is reviewed before any injection is scheduled.

Interested in PRP therapy?

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