Question 1

What is PRP and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from your own blood. A small sample is drawn and processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and growth factors they carry. That concentrated solution is then injected precisely into the affected joint, tendon, or ligament using ultrasound guidance. PRP works with your body's own healing mechanisms to reduce inflammation and support tissue repair over time.

Question 2

Is PRP covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

PRP is not typically covered by insurance. It is considered investigational by most insurance carriers in the United States, including Medicare and most commercial plans in California. Our practice is cash-pay, with no insurance billing or referral required.

Question 3

How many PRP injections will I need?

Accepted Answer

For knee osteoarthritis, the evidence supports a three-injection protocol spaced two to four weeks apart, followed by reassessment. Some patients do well with a single injection. Treatment is individualized based on severity, imaging, and your response to the first treatment.

Question 4

How long does PRP last compared to a cortisone shot?

Accepted Answer

Cortisone relief typically peaks at four to six weeks and fades by three months in most patients. PRP relief tends to build gradually and, in good responders, lasts 12 to 24 months. A five-year follow-up study found that PRP patients had a significantly lower rate of needing re-treatment at 24 months compared to hyaluronic acid.

Question 5

Am I a good candidate for PRP?

Accepted Answer

The best candidates are people with mild to moderate osteoarthritis or soft tissue injuries such as tendons and ligaments who have not responded adequately to conservative care and are not yet at the point of needing surgery. Advanced arthritis (bone-on-bone) is less likely to respond well to PRP. A thorough evaluation including review of your imaging is necessary before recommending treatment.

Question 6

What is BMAC therapy?

Accepted Answer

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) is an orthobiologic treatment where bone marrow is drawn from your pelvis, concentrated, and injected into a damaged joint or tissue. BMAC contains stem cells, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory proteins. It is typically used for moderate to advanced joint degeneration where PRP alone may not be sufficient.

Question 7

What is A2M therapy?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M) is a naturally occurring protein in your blood that inhibits the enzymes responsible for cartilage breakdown in arthritic joints. A2M therapy concentrates this protein from your own blood and injects it into the affected joint to help protect remaining cartilage and slow further deterioration.

Question 8

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a cash-pay practice. There is no insurance billing, no referral required, and no wait for prior authorization. Regenerative medicine treatments including PRP, BMAC, and A2M are not covered by most insurance plans and are offered on a self-pay basis.

Walnut Creek Concierge-Style Pain Rehabilitation Practice

❀1270 Springbrook Rd, Suite E Walnut Creek, CA 94597❀

Dr. Murakami’s Newsletter

Frequently asked questions

Contact Dr. Murakami