Does PRP actually work?

PRP has the strongest supporting evidence for certain conditions — for example, chronic lateral epicondylitis and mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis — and weaker or mixed evidence for others. Dr. Levine will tell you honestly whether PRP is likely to help your specific problem.

Is PRP a substitute for surgery?

Sometimes. For advanced structural problems (large rotator cuff tears, advanced arthritis, torn ACL in an active patient), PRP is not a substitute for surgical repair. For early or moderate conditions, it can delay or avoid surgery for some patients.

How many PRP injections will I need?

It depends on the condition. Some patients respond after a single injection; others benefit from a short series. Dr. Levine tailors this to your response.

Because PRP uses your own blood, allergic reaction is not a concern. Injection-site soreness and temporary flare-up are the most common effects. Serious complications are rare.

Non-Surgical Option

PRP & Regenerative Injections — San Diego

Name: North County Orthopedic Medical Group
Address: 8929 University Center Ln, Ste 100, San Diego, CA, 92122, US
Telephone: (858) 457-4040
Price range: $$

Platelet-rich plasma and other regenerative options for the right patients — a non-surgical alternative that concentrates your body's own healing factors at the site of injury.

Request Appointment (858) 457-4040

Overview

A closer look

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a non-surgical treatment that uses a concentrate of your own blood platelets, rich in growth factors, to help stimulate healing in injured tendons, ligaments, and joints. PRP has become a valuable addition to orthopedic care in San Diego for patients with early arthritis, chronic tendon injuries, and persistent joint pain that has not responded to first-line treatment. Dr. Sidney H. Levine offers PRP as one option within a broader treatment plan — never as a stand-alone product. Because he sees you before, during, and after treatment, PRP is chosen only when the diagnosis and clinical picture suggest it's likely to help.

Conditions we treat

What we see most often

Mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis

Chronic tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)

Chronic Achilles tendinopathy

Rotator cuff tendinopathy

Patellar tendon injuries (jumper's knee)

Plantar fasciitis (select cases)

Hip osteoarthritis (select cases)

Treatment options

Surgical and non-surgical care

Non-surgical options

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection
Corticosteroid injections
Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid) injections
Guided injections when indicated
Physical therapy prescription
Activity modification and bracing

Surgical options

Surgical alternatives when PRP is not indicated
Adjunctive PRP with select surgical procedures

What to expect

Your first visit

A PRP visit starts with a diagnostic evaluation to confirm PRP is appropriate. On treatment day, a small blood sample is drawn and processed in office to concentrate the platelets. The injection itself takes only a few minutes. Mild soreness at the site for 24–72 hours is expected. Most patients resume normal daily activity the next day, with a graduated return to more demanding activities as directed.

Recovery

What healing looks like

PRP is a biological treatment — it works with your body's healing timeline, not against it. Many patients notice gradual improvement over 4–12 weeks, and some conditions benefit from a series of injections spaced weeks apart. Because response varies by condition and individual, Dr. Levine sets realistic expectations up front and adjusts the plan based on your response.

Insurance & coverage

Getting you seen

PRP is typically not covered by insurance and is offered as a cash-pay service. A fee schedule is provided during your evaluation so you can decide with full information. PLACEHOLDER — confirm current pricing and any package options.

Patient info & forms

FAQ