Understanding How PRP Supports Healing in Shoulder Tendonitis
Shoulder tendonitis is a common source of pain and stiffness, especially for athletes, manual laborers, and anyone whose daily activities involve repetitive overhead motion. The condition occurs when the tendons of the shoulder — particularly those in the rotator cuff or biceps — become inflamed or irritated. Left untreated, tendonitis can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even tears in the tendon.
While rest, ice, and physical therapy are often the first lines of treatment, many patients continue to experience symptoms that interfere with daily life. Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief but can weaken the tendon over time. For those searching for a safer and more sustainable solution, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a promising non-surgical option.
What is Shoulder Tendonitis?
Shoulder tendonitis develops when the tendons in the shoulder become inflamed due to overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. Some of the most common causes include:
- Sports that involve overhead motions, such as tennis, swimming, or baseball
- Occupations that require repetitive lifting or reaching
- Poor posture that places added stress on the shoulder joint
- Age-related wear and tear on the tendons
Typical symptoms include pain when lifting or rotating the arm, stiffness, and weakness in the shoulder. Many patients also report difficulty sleeping due to pain at night.
The Limitations of Traditional Treatments
Standard care for shoulder tendonitis usually includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy exercises designed to restore strength and mobility. While these methods can help, they don’t always provide lasting relief — especially for patients with chronic or recurring tendonitis.
Corticosteroid injections are sometimes used to manage inflammation, but repeated use carries risks. Steroids can damage tendon tissue over time, increasing the likelihood of tears. For these reasons, more patients are turning to regenerative therapies like PRP.
How PRP Therapy Works
PRP therapy uses a patient’s own blood to harness natural healing power. The process involves drawing a small sample of blood, spinning it in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma into the injured tendon.
Platelets are rich in growth factors — natural proteins that help regulate healing and repair. When injected into the site of shoulder tendonitis, PRP can:
- Reduce inflammation in the affected tendon
- Stimulate collagen production to strengthen tissue
- Encourage new cell growth and tendon repair
- Improve blood flow in the injured area
The goal is not just to relieve pain but to address the underlying tendon damage that causes symptoms.
What Research Says About PRP for Shoulder Tendonitis
Several clinical studies suggest that PRP may offer significant benefits for patients with shoulder tendonitis. Research has shown improvements in both pain reduction and functional recovery compared to traditional therapies. Some studies even indicate that PRP may reduce the risk of tendon degeneration over time.
While results can vary depending on the severity of the tendonitis and the individual patient, the evidence continues to grow in support of PRP as a safe, non-surgical option.
What Patients Can Expect
A PRP procedure is typically performed in-office and usually takes less than an hour. Because the treatment uses the patient’s own blood, the risk of complications is very low. Patients may experience mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two, but this usually resolves quickly.
Many patients require more than one session, depending on the severity of their condition. Improvements often become noticeable within several weeks as the tendon gradually heals and strengthens.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRP?
PRP therapy may be a good option for patients who:
- Have chronic or recurring shoulder tendonitis
- Have not found relief from conservative care
- Want to avoid corticosteroid injections or surgery
- Are active adults or athletes looking for a safe, natural approach to healing
A consultation with a regenerative medicine provider like LifeStem can determine whether PRP is appropriate based on the patient’s condition and medical history.
Final Thoughts
Shoulder tendonitis can make even simple movements painful, interfering with daily activities and quality of life. While traditional treatments focus on symptom management, PRP therapy offers a non-surgical solution aimed at repairing and strengthening the tendon itself.
At LifeStem, we use advanced regenerative techniques to help patients restore shoulder function and return to the activities they love. If you’re struggling with shoulder tendonitis, call us today to schedule your consultation and learn whether PRP therapy is right for you.