Abstract

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has gained traction as a treatment for various musculoskeletal injuries, though its precise indications and timing of administration remain unclear. This article reviews the biological mechanisms underlying PRP’s action as well as common indications for its use. For lateral epicondylitis, systematic reviews indicate significant improvement in patient-reported outcomes compared to placebo and corticosteroids. Evidence is less clear regarding the efficacy of PRP in plantar fasciitis, patellar, and achilles tendonopathies. PRP demonstrates favorable outcomes in rotator cuff tendinopathy, outperforming traditional rehabilitation methods, though comparisons to corticosteroids show limited superiority. PRP also shows promise in surgical settings, particularly in meniscal repair and rotator cuff repair, where it has been associated with lower retear rates and improved functional scores. In conclusion, PRP represents a valuable conservative option for certain chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly where traditional treatments are ineffective, while further high-quality research is needed to solidify its role across diverse applications.