PRP Injection for Knee Pain in Manchester
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses a preparation derived from the patient's own blood to support the body's natural healing processes in damaged joint tissue. At Ortho Remedy Clinic in Manchester, PRP knee injections are carried out by Dr Armughan Azhar, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with specialist training in regenerative joint treatments.
The Manchester clinic at High Lane Medical Centre, Stockport, serves patients from across south and east Greater Manchester - including Hazel Grove, Bramhall, Cheadle, Cheadle Hulme, Poynton, Marple, Disley, Whaley Bridge and the wider Macclesfield and Wilmslow areas. No GP referral is required, and patients can self-refer directly to the clinic.
About Dr Armughan Azhar
Dr Armughan Azhar is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). He completed his core orthopaedic training in the UK and has undertaken specialist fellowship training in musculoskeletal medicine and regenerative joint treatments. Dr Azhar holds membership of the British Orthopaedic Association and has a particular clinical interest in non-surgical management of joint and soft tissue conditions, including ultrasound-guided injection therapy and regenerative treatments. He consults at both the Manchester and Glasgow clinics and is committed to patient-centred, evidence-informed care.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP is prepared from a small sample of the patient’s own blood. The blood is centrifuged to concentrate the platelet fraction, which contains growth factors involved in tissue repair. The resulting preparation is injected into the affected area of the knee under ultrasound guidance, allowing precise placement.
Because PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or rejection is very low. All PRP procedures at the Manchester clinic are carried out under real-time ultrasound guidance by Dr Azhar.
Which Knee Conditions May Respond to PRP?
PRP therapy is considered in patients with the following knee conditions, subject to individual clinical assessment and suitability:
Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
A number of published clinical studies have reported improvements in pain and function following PRP injection in patients with early to moderate cartilage degeneration. Results vary between individuals, and the treatment does not reverse established cartilage loss.
Degenerative meniscal changes
Early meniscal wear in patients who are not surgical candidates may be considered for PRP. Evidence in this area is still developing.
Patellar tendinopathy
PRP is an established option for persistent tendon pain at the front of the knee when conservative measures have not provided adequate relief. Evidence from several trials supports its use in this indication.
Dr Azhar will assess each patient’s suitability at the initial consultation and will advise honestly on whether PRP is likely to be of benefit in the individual case.
The Evidence for PRP
A growing body of clinical research has examined PRP as a treatment for knee osteoarthritis. A number of randomised controlled trials have reported that PRP injections may produce improvements in pain and function when compared with placebo or corticosteroid injection in patients with mild to moderate knee arthritis. Results appear more consistent in younger patients and those with earlier-stage disease.
The evidence base is still developing, and national guidelines reflect that PRP is not universally recommended for all knee conditions. Dr Azhar will discuss the current evidence relevant to each patient’s specific diagnosis at the consultation, including the realistic likelihood of benefit and the limitations of the treatment.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
- A blood sample of approximately 15 to 20ml is taken from the patient’s arm.
- The sample is placed in a centrifuge and processed for approximately 15 minutes to concentrate the platelets.
- The concentrated PRP is drawn into a sterile syringe.
- Under real-time ultrasound guidance, the PRP is injected into the affected area of the knee. The ultrasound allows Dr Azhar to confirm needle position before the injection is administered.
The appointment, including preparation and injection, typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes. Most patients are able to drive home afterwards. Some mild discomfort around the injection site is normal for a few days and is part of the expected tissue response.
After the Injection
Anti-inflammatory medication is generally avoided in the days following PRP, as it may interfere with the healing response. Dr Azhar will provide specific aftercare guidance at the appointment. A structured physiotherapy programme is usually recommended alongside PRP to support recovery.
In clinical studies, many patients have reported an improvement in symptoms over the weeks following the injection, with further changes over two to three months. Individual responses vary considerably. Some patients benefit from a repeat injection after a period of clinical review. Dr Azhar will discuss the expected timeline and follow-up plan at the consultation.
Is PRP Suitable for All Patients?
PRP is not appropriate for all patients. It is generally not recommended for those with active infection, bleeding disorders or patients taking anticoagulant medication without specialist review. Patients with very advanced knee arthritis may derive limited benefit and may be better considered for an alternative approach. Dr Azhar will assess suitability carefully and provide an honest opinion on the likely benefit at the initial consultation.
Pricing and Insurance
Pricing information, including consultation and procedure fees, is provided in full at the initial appointment. Patients are encouraged to contact the clinic directly to enquire about fees or to check whether their private health insurance policy covers PRP treatment.
Working Hours
- MONDAY 9AM – 6PM
- TUESDAY 9AM – 6PM
- WEDNESDAY 9AM – 6PM
- THURSDAY 9AM – 6PM
- FRIDAY 9AM – 6PM
- SATURDAY 9AM – 4PM
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
Response times vary between patients. In clinical studies, improvements in pain have been reported over a period of weeks to months following PRP injection. Dr Azhar will discuss a realistic timeline at the consultation.
The injection may produce a brief sensation of pressure or mild discomfort. Local anaesthetic is applied beforehand, and the procedure is generally well tolerated.
This depends on the diagnosis and the individual response to treatment. Many patients have one injection, with a clinical review to assess response. Dr Azhar will advise at the consultation.
Yes. PRP is often used alongside a physiotherapy programme. Dr Azhar will advise on the recommended combination for each patient’s specific situation.
For PRP knee treatment in Glasgow, see our PRP injection for knee pain in Glasgow page. For information about other PRP indications, visit our main PRP therapy page.
Book Your Consultation
To arrange an appointment at our Manchester clinic, please contact us by one of the following methods:
No GP referral is required. Patients are welcome to self-refer directly. A member of the team will respond within one working day to confirm your appointment.