PRP or Steroid Injection: How They Differ, and Which May Suit You

Written by Sama Samy

If a joint or tendon has been painful for a while, you may be weighing up a steroid injection against PRP. They work in different ways, suit different situations and have different timelines. The right choice depends on the problem, your goals and your history, which is why it starts with a doctor's assessment. At The London PRP Clinic ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750, carried out by a doctor.

Reviewed by the medical team at The Wellness. Last updated 13 November 2026.

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Key points

  • A steroid injection reduces inflammation and often eases pain within days.

  • PRP uses platelets from your own blood and works more gradually.

  • Which suits you depends on the problem, your goals and your history.

  • Ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750.

  • Your doctor will explain the benefits and limits of each before you decide.

Who is this comparison for?

It is for adults with a painful joint or tendon, such as the knee, hip, shoulder or elbow, who have tried rest, exercise and pain relief and are considering an injection. It begins with an assessment, because the right injection depends on what is causing the pain.

What does the doctor's assessment include?

  • A history of your pain, previous injections and other treatments

  • An examination of the joint or tendon

  • An ultrasound or a review of scans, where it helps to clarify the cause

  • A discussion of the options, including physiotherapy, steroid, PRP and surgery

  • A plan agreed with you, with follow-up

How does a steroid injection work?

A steroid injection contains a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. Many people notice their pain easing within a few days, and the effect can last weeks to months. Steroid injections are usually limited in how often they can be repeated in the same place, and they can raise blood sugar for a few days, which matters if you have diabetes. Your doctor will explain the risks for you.

How does PRP work?

PRP is made by spinning a small sample of your own blood to concentrate the platelets, which carry growth factors involved in healing. It is injected into the joint or tendon, usually under ultrasound guidance. It works more gradually than a steroid, so any benefit tends to build over weeks rather than days. Evidence varies between conditions and is still developing.

How do they compare?

  • Speed, a steroid often works within days, while PRP builds over weeks

  • Source, a steroid is a medicine, while PRP comes from your own blood

  • Repeats, steroids are usually limited in how often they are repeated

  • Evidence, both have evidence for some conditions, and neither suits every problem

How much does joint PRP cost?

Ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750 at The London PRP Clinic. This covers the blood sample, preparation of the platelet concentrate and the ultrasound-guided injection, carried out by a doctor.

If you would like us to prepare for your consultation, you are welcome to send any scan reports or letters when you message us, so your doctor can review them beforehand. Your doctor's advice is given at the consultation itself.

What happens on the day of PRP?

A small blood sample is taken and prepared while you wait. The area is cleaned, and the PRP is injected under ultrasound guidance. The visit usually takes around an hour, and most people go home straight afterwards.

What should I expect afterwards?

With PRP, aching for a few days is common. With a steroid, a brief flare of pain can occur before it settles. Whichever you choose, continuing your exercise programme remains an important part of recovery.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send us a message on WhatsApp and we will offer you the earliest appointment with one of our doctors at our clinics in Marylebone or Belgravia. At your first visit the doctor assesses you and agrees a plan with you before any treatment, so you know exactly what is recommended, why, and what it will cost.

After each session you receive clear aftercare advice in writing, and our team books your reviews and any further sessions, so your plan stays on track without you having to chase it.

Frequently asked questions

Is PRP better than a steroid injection?

Neither is better for everyone. A steroid often works faster, while PRP builds more gradually. Your doctor will advise on what suits your problem.

How much is joint PRP in London?

Ultrasound-guided joint PRP is £750 at The London PRP Clinic.

Can I have PRP after a steroid injection?

Often yes, after a suitable gap. Your doctor will advise on the timing.

How often can I have a steroid injection?

Steroid injections are usually limited in how often they are repeated in the same place. Your doctor will advise.

Do I need a scan first?

Not always. Your doctor will advise whether an ultrasound or other imaging would help.

The London PRP Clinic is part of The Wellness, a doctor-led private healthcare group with clinics at 10 Portman Square, Marylebone, and 9 Eccleston Street, Belgravia. All treatments are carried out by GMC-registered doctors after a consultation and clinical assessment. Results vary from person to person and no outcome can be guaranteed. This article is general information and not a substitute for medical advice about your own health.

Message us on WhatsApp on +44 7961 280835 (ref PRP-prp-or-steroid-injection) and we will arrange your appointment.

Sources

Sama Samy
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