PLATELET-RICH PLASMA – PRP AND MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS: INFLUENCE ON RECOVERY SPEED IN MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES - LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Musculoskeletal injuries are among the leading causes of sports absence, directly affecting performance and return-to-play time. In this scenario, regenerative therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells have been investigated for their potential to modulate inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. This article conducted a narrative review with systematic elements of studies published between 2021 and 2026, including randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Results show that in hamstring injuries, PRP may reduce return-to-play time by an average of five to eight days, although findings are not consistent across studies. In tendinopathies, moderate improvements in pain and function are observed, but without a clear impact on sports performance. In ligament injuries, evidence suggests improved graft integration, but no consistent reduction in return time. Stem cell therapies demonstrate benefits in pain, function, and tissue regeneration in cartilage and tendon, with an acceptable safety profile, but still limited evidence for rapid return to sport. In conclusion, PRP and stem cells show promising potential but remain investigational therapies, requiring standardized protocols and robust multicenter studies for definitive validation in sports medicine.