Platelet-rich plasma in hamstring muscle injuries in professional soccer players. A pilot study

Abstract

Background. This study evaluated the efficacy of a single injection of Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the management of hamstring injuries (grade 2a and 2b according to the British Athletics Muscle Injury Classification) in professional soccer players. Methods. Forty professional male soccer players with an acute hamstring injury, verified by MRI, were randomly treated either conservatively (physiotherapy, exercises) or with a combination of conservative methods and injections of PRP. Results. The time to return to sport (RTS) in the PRP group (11.4 ± 1.2 days) was significantly shorter than in the other group (21.3 ± 2.7 days; p < 0.05). There were no episodes of reinjury in both groups at a minimum of 6 months of follow-up. Conclusions. The use of PRP exerts a beneficial effect on pain relief and allows earlier return to sport.