Platelet Rich Plasma Treatment

What is it? 

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a revolutionary procedure that uses components of the body’s own blood cells to stimulate the natural healing process in certain orthopedic conditions.

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Which conditions is it used for?

Many orthopedic conditions can be treated with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, including chronic pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. If you have pain, limited mobility, swelling, or sports injuries, chances are PRP therapy can benefit you. It has shown promising results in treating these common conditions:

• Osteoarthritis

• Rotator cuff tear

• Plantar fasciitis

• ACL tear

• Tennis elbow

• Ankle sprain

• Tendonitis

• Sprains and strains

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How does it work?

The body’s first response to any soft tissue injury (ligaments, tendons, and cartilage) is to deliver platelet cells. Filled with healing and growth factors, the platelets jump-start the repair process with the help of stem cells.

 

The platelets are separated from the rest of the blood cells and put through a process called centrifugation, which increases the platelets’ concentration. These platelets are then mixed with the remaining blood cells, as PRP therapy speeds up the body’s healing process, by delivering a higher concentration of platelets through an injection. This quick procedure can provide effective pain relief, eliminating the need for surgery and prolonged recovery.

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How is it done?

PRP Injections are short office procedures.

Inititially, a sample of your blood is drawn (similar to a lab test sample) and the blood is then spun at high speeds, separating the platelets from the other components. The concentrated platelet rich plasma (PRP) is then injected into and around the point of injury. No stitches are necessary since just a needle was used.

The procedure takes around 20 minutes, including preparation and recovery time. Performed safely in the office, PRP therapy relieves pain without the risks of surgery, general anesthesia, or hospital stays and without a prolonged recovery. In fact, most people return to their jobs or usual activities right after the procedure.

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Can it be repeated?

Up to three injections may be given within a 3-month time frame, usually performed two to three weeks apart. You may, however, gain considerable to complete relief after the first or second injection.

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Does it work?

The goal of PRP therapy is to resolve pain through healing. Initial improvement may be seen within a few weeks, gradually increasing as the healing progresses. Studies have shown PRP therapy to be effective at relieving pain and returning patients to their normal activities and daily lives. Both ultrasound and MRI images have shown definitive tissue repair after PRP therapy, confirming the healing process. The need for surgery can also be greatly reduced by treating injured tissues before the damage progresses and the condition is irreversible.

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