When knee pain starts limiting your daily activities, walking, climbing stairs or simply getting out of a chair, it’s natural to wonder whether surgery is the only option. Fortunately, for many patients in Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland, non-surgical options like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) knee injections Seattle are gaining traction as alternatives to invasive procedures. This blog explores what PRP knee injections are, how they work, who might benefit, and what to expect when seeking this treatment.
What Are PRP Knee Injections?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is derived from a patient’s own blood and contains a concentrated mix of platelets and growth factors that facilitate tissue repair. In a knee injection, the practitioner draws a small amount of blood, processes it in a centrifuge to isolate the PRP, then injects the concentrate into the knee joint under guidance. Because the fluid comes from your own body, risks like allergic reaction or rejection are minimal.
Why Consider PRP for Knee Pain in Seattle?
Knee arthritis, cartilage wear, and chronic joint pain are common in active adults and older patients alike. Traditional treatments include medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections or ultimately surgery. But PRP offers a regenerative, non-surgical option that may reduce inflammation and support tissue recovery. For residents of Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland who lead active lives, want to avoid downtime and seek minimally invasive solutions, PRP is increasingly on the radar.
Conditions Commonly Treated with PRP Knee Injections
- Mild to moderate knee arthritis
- Pain around the kneecap from overuse (runner’s knee)
- Ongoing irritation of the patellar or quadriceps tendons
- Meniscus injuries or soreness after meniscus surgery
- Swelling or slow healing after knee procedures
How the Procedure Works
- Initial Evaluation & Planning
Your surgeon or sports medicine specialist will review knee symptoms, imaging, prior treatments and overall health. - Blood Draw & Processing
A small sample of blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets and growth factors. - Injection into the Knee Joint
Under sterile conditions and often using ultrasound guidance, the PRP is injected into the affected area of the knee. - Post-Injection Recovery
Patients may be advised to limit weight-bearing, modify activity and follow a rehab protocol. A gradual return to motion and strengthening often begins within days. - Follow-Up & Monitoring
Results may evolve over weeks to months; multiple injections are sometimes recommended depending on response.
What Are the Benefits of PRP Knee Injections?
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions, less downtime compared to surgery.
- Uses Your Own Tissue: Lower risk of immune reaction.
- Reduced Inflammation & Potential Improved Function: Patients may show improved mobility and joint comfort.
What to Keep in Mind (Limitations & Safety)
- Results vary widely.
- PRP is not a cure for advanced joint destruction; structural damage may still require surgery.
- Mild after-effects may include temporary swelling and discomfort at the injection site.
- Need to keep realistic expectations. Joint improvement is gradual and often combined with physical therapy.
Is PRP Right for You?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have knee pain from early to moderate arthritis or tissue injury
- Want to explore non-surgical options before considering joint replacement
- Are in good overall health and willing to commit to post-injection rehab
- Understand that results may take weeks and multiple treatments may be needed
A consultation at PRP In Seattle includes an assessment of your knee joint, imaging review and discussion of realistic goals for PRP.
Considering PRP Knee Injections?
If knee pain is slowing you down and you want to explore non-surgical options, PRP knee injections may be the next step. Whether you are in Seattle, Bellevue or Kirkland, call us at (206) 279-2112 to schedule a consultation for evaluation and personalized treatment planning. Let’s determine whether PRP is a fit for your knee health and mobility goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PRP injections will I need?
The number of injections varies. Some patients may improve with one session; others may require two or three spaced weeks apart based on joint response and provider protocol.
Is PRP safe for knee arthritis?
Yes, when performed by a qualified provider, PRP is generally well tolerated because it uses your own blood. Mild side-effects are possible, and serious complications are rare.
Can PRP replace knee replacement?
In some early or moderate cases PRP may help delay the need for knee replacement, but it is not a guaranteed substitute if the joint damage is advanced.
