Other traditional treatments may fail to provide adequate relief. PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, and the injections carry few risks. Other treatments have side effects or drawbacks: Physical therapy is often effective but does not always satisfactorily relieve symptoms or improve function. Cortisone injections can temporarily reduce pain; however, symptoms can recur. In addition, tendons exposed to cortisone may weaken, making the injury worse. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen may effectively reduce pain, but habitual use can cause or aggravate stomach problems, blood pressure, and heart problems. Minor surgeries to treat tendon damage and degradation, such as arthroscopic debridement, do not always work, tend to carry more risks, and have longer recovery times. While more clinical studies are needed, the research so far seems to be promising. Because there is no surefire way to treat damaged tendons, and because PRP injections carry few risks, some doctors believe PRP therapy is worth trying.