What is PRP?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. It is made from a small sample of your own blood that is processed to concentrate platelets, which contain growth factors and signaling proteins involved in normal tissue repair. Dr. Mikolajczak then injects the prepared PRP into a targeted joint, tendon, or soft-tissue area using ultrasound guidance when appropriate.
The goal is not to “regrow” a joint overnight or promise a cure. The goal is to support the body’s own healing response in a carefully selected orthopedic problem. That distinction matters. PRP works best when the diagnosis is clear, the damage is not too advanced, and the injection is part of a broader plan that may include therapy, strengthening, bracing, weight management, activity changes, or surgery if that is the more honest answer.
Who is a good PRP candidate?
PRP may be discussed for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, selected rotator cuff and shoulder problems, chronic tendon irritation, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and some hip or soft-tissue conditions. It is often considered by patients who have already tried anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, rest, or cortisone injections and still have pain that limits activity.
PRP is not appropriate for every patient. Severe bone-on-bone arthritis, major tendon retraction, unstable fractures, infection, certain blood disorders, or medical conditions that affect healing may make another option more appropriate. Dr. Mikolajczak reviews imaging, exam findings, prior treatment, and goals before recommending PRP.
Knee osteoarthritis
Often considered for mild to moderate arthritis when a patient wants to delay or avoid surgery if possible.
Rotator cuff and shoulder pain
May be considered for selected tendon and soft-tissue problems or in surgical-healing discussions.
Hip and tendon pain
Appropriateness depends on the exact structure involved and imaging findings.
Elbow tendon conditions
Chronic tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow may be evaluated for PRP candidacy.
Published clinical research
Published research reviewing 18 randomized controlled trials with 1,995 patients found PRP for knee osteoarthritis exceeded the minimum clinically important difference at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Clinical studies in rotator cuff repair have also associated PRP with approximately 38% lower retear rates compared with control. These are research-level findings, not guarantees for any individual patient.
Evidence quality varies by condition, PRP preparation, injection technique, and patient selection. That is why Wellington Orthopedic Institute does not market PRP as a universal solution. Dr. Mikolajczak uses the research as part of a medical decision, then explains where the evidence is strongest and where it is more limited.
How PRP works at Wellington Orthopedic Institute
The appointment typically begins with confirming the target area and reviewing the plan. A small blood draw is taken, the sample is processed in a centrifuge, and the prepared platelet-rich plasma is injected into the target. Ultrasound guidance is used for precision when appropriate, allowing Dr. Mikolajczak to visualize the structure being treated.
Most PRP visits take about 45–60 minutes. Some patients have temporary soreness after injection. Improvement, when it occurs, is usually gradual over weeks to months rather than immediate. Depending on the diagnosis and response, some patients begin with one injection while others may be advised to consider a series.
After PRP, instructions may include temporary activity modification, avoiding certain anti-inflammatory medications for a period of time, and continuing a structured rehabilitation plan. The goal is not simply to “get a shot,” but to build a recovery strategy around the structure that is painful.
Cash pay and insurance note
PRP is typically considered experimental by many insurance carriers and is commonly a cash-pay procedure. Pricing is discussed during consultation or scheduling. If insurance-covered alternatives may be appropriate — such as hyaluronic acid injections for knee osteoarthritis — Dr. Mikolajczak can discuss those options as part of the decision.
Important PRP disclaimers
PRP is a medical procedure and is not appropriate for every condition. It is not FDA-approved for all orthopedic indications. Individual results vary, and no outcome can be guaranteed. This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace a medical evaluation with Dr. Mikolajczak.
Frequently asked questions
What is PRP therapy?
PRP therapy uses platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood and injected into a targeted joint, tendon, or soft-tissue area to support the body’s healing response.
Does PRP work for knee osteoarthritis?
Published research covering 18 randomized controlled trials and 1,995 patients found PRP exceeded the minimum clinically important difference at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Individual results vary.
Is PRP covered by insurance?
PRP is typically not covered by insurance and is commonly cash pay. The office can review current fees with you.
How many PRP injections will I need?
The number depends on your diagnosis and response. Some patients start with one injection, while others may be advised to consider a series.
How do I schedule PRP therapy in Palm Beach County?
Call 561-670-2010 or use the online booking link to request a PRP consultation with Wellington Orthopedic Institute.