Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection in Joint Diseases of Dogs

Understanding PRP Therapy in Veterinary Medicine

What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentrated portion of a dog’s own blood that is rich in platelets, growth factors, and healing proteins. These platelets naturally speed up tissue repair and reduce inflammation when injected into damaged joints.

It’s a safe, natural, regenerative therapy—because it comes from the dog’s own body.

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How PRP Is Prepared

1. A small amount of blood is collected from the dog.

2. The blood is placed into a centrifuge.

3. The machine spins and separates the platelet-rich layer.

4. The concentrated platelets are collected and prepared for injection.

This creates a powerful healing solution 3–5 times richer in growth factors than normal blood.

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Why PRP Works

PRP reduces pain and supports healing because platelets release natural substances that:

lower joint inflammation

repair damaged cartilage

improve lubrication

enhance mobility

This makes PRP one of the most effective regenerative treatments for joint disease.

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Joint Diseases Commonly Treated With PRP

1. Osteoarthritis

This is the most common reason for PRP treatment. PRP helps reduce chronic joint inflammation and slows disease progression.

2. Hip Dysplasia

In early and moderate stages, PRP helps relieve pain and improves joint movement.

3. Elbow Dysplasia

PRP can reduce stiffness and improve forelimb mobility.

4. Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Injuries

PRP is beneficial both before and after surgery, accelerating ligament healing.

5. Tendon & Ligament Damage

PRP significantly speeds up tissue repair in strained or partially torn tendons.

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How PRP Injection Works

Mechanism of Action

PRP contains powerful healing molecules including:

Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)

Transforming Growth Factor (TGF-β)

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)

These growth factors:

promote cartilage repair

reduce breakdown of joint tissue

promote new tissue formation

improve blood supply to damaged areas

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PRP Procedure in Dogs

Step-by-Step Process

1. Physical exam + joint evaluation

2. Collecting blood sample

3. Centrifuging to extract platelets

4. Sedation (mild) to keep dog relaxed

5. Sterile injection into affected joint

6. Observation for 15–20 minutes

Total time: 45–60 minutes.

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Benefits of PRP for Joint Diseases

✔ Long-lasting pain relief

✔ Improved mobility & comfort

✔ Reduces inflammation naturally

✔ Minimal side effects

✔ Helps delay surgery in some cases

✔ Reduces need for long-term pain medications

Pets often show improvement within 2–4 weeks, with results lasting 6–12 months.

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When PRP Is Recommended

PRP is ideal for:

Early-to-moderate arthritis

Young dogs with genetic joint issues

Dogs unable to tolerate NSAID painkillers

Post-surgical recovery support

Athletes or active dogs with joint strain

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What to Expect After Treatment

Recovery Timeline

Day 1–3: mild stiffness possible

Week 1–2: noticeable comfort starts

Week 3–6: major improvement in movement

Activity Restrictions

No running or jumping for 7–10 days

Gradual return to normal activity

Follow vet instructions for physiotherapy if needed

How Long PRP Lasts

One injection works for 6–12 months, depending on the severity.

Most dogs need:

1–2 sessions initially

maintenance sessions once a year

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Risks & Limitations of PRP

Possible Mild Reactions

Temporary swelling

Mild discomfort

Rare minor bruising

Limitations

PRP is less effective in:

end-stage arthritis with no cartilage

severe bone deformities

untreated ligament ruptures

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PRP vs Other Treatments

PRP vs Stem Cell Therapy

PRP is cheaper, faster, and easier

Stem cells work deeper but cost much more

PRP vs NSAIDs

NSAIDs control pain temporarily

PRP treats the disease, not just symptoms

PRP vs Joint Supplements

Supplements help maintain joints but cannot repair damage like PRP does.

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PRP Treatment at Shivraj Pet Clinic & Lab

At Shivraj Pet Clinic, PRP therapy is performed using:

advanced in-house PRP centrifugation technology

strict sterility protocols

expert orthopedic guidance

personalized treatment planning based on X-rays, gait analysis, and clinical symptoms

We help maximize joint recovery while keeping your pet comfortable and mobile.

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FAQs

1. Is PRP safe for all dogs?

Yes. It uses the dog’s own blood, so reactions are extremely rare.

2. How soon will my dog feel better?

Most dogs improve within 2–4 weeks.

3. Can PRP cure arthritis?

No, but it slows progression, repairs tissues, and reduces pain significantly.

4. Does PRP replace surgery?

In early stages, it may delay surgery; in advanced cases, it supports post-surgical healing.

5. How long do the effects last?

Usually 6–12 months.

6. Can PRP be combined with other treatments?

Yes—physiotherapy, supplements, weight management, and joint diets enhance results.

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Conclusion

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a powerful, natural, and safe treatment for joint diseases in dogs. It reduces pain, improves mobility, and enhances quality of life without heavy medication. With expert preparation and application, Shivraj Pet Clinic & Lab offers one of the most advanced PRP treatment options for dogs suffering from arthritis, ligament injuries, and mobility issues.