Symptoms we hear about
- Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel/lower calf
- Morning stiffness that eases then returns after activity
- A thickened, tender spot on the tendon
- Pain pushing off when walking, running, or hiking
What PRP can treat here
- Achilles tendinopathy (candid evidence below)
- Other chronic tendon & ligament injuries (case-by-case)
- Sports overuse injuries (we'll grade each honestly)
The honest evidence
This page exists because honesty is the point. A 2024 meta-analysis of randomized trials found no significant difference between PRP and placebo for Achilles tendinopathy on the standard VISA-A function score at 3, 6, and 12 months. Short-term flickers of improvement aren't sustained. For the Achilles specifically, Dr. Hock will walk you through better-supported options, loading-based rehab, and surgery when truly needed. For other tendon problems (elbow, plantar fascia, knee), PRP's evidence is much stronger, and we'll point you there.
Dr. Hock's rule: if the research doesn't support treating your specific problem, he'll tell you, and point you to what actually works.
You may be a good candidate if…
- ·You want an honest, surgeon-led assessment of all your options
- ·You have a different tendon problem with better PRP evidence
PRP is probably not your answer if…
- ·Expecting PRP to reliably fix Achilles tendinopathy, the data isn't there
Frequently asked questions
Does PRP work for Achilles tendonitis?
Honestly, the best evidence says no, randomized trials show PRP is no better than placebo for Achilles tendinopathy at 3, 6, and 12 months. Some people feel brief improvement, but it isn't reliable or lasting. We'd rather tell you that than take your money.
If not PRP, what helps an Achilles problem?
Progressive loading (eccentric) rehabilitation has the best evidence for Achilles tendinopathy, with surgery reserved for specific cases. Dr. Hock will guide you to what actually works for your tendon rather than a treatment the studies don't back.
So when DOES PRP work well?
PRP has solid evidence for knee arthritis, tennis/golfer's elbow, and chronic plantar fasciitis. If your pain is in one of those areas, you're likely a much better candidate, see those condition pages.