PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (JOINT PRP)                                                  

What is PRP Therapy?

A small percent of blood is made up of platelets. These cell fragments help with clotting and have growth factors that promote tissue and cell healing. When injected into the affected area, PRP may speed up the healing of injuries. PRP injections contain a concentration of platelets that may be 5-10 times greater than what's normally in blood.

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) first gained attention because of use by many top athletes for the purpose of speeding up the healing process, especially with joint-related injuries. Involving the use of blood that's processed to include a higher concentration of beneficial platelets, the therapy may help ease pain linked to various joint problems and chronic tendon injuries.

How PRP Injections Work?

It's believed platelet rich plasma works by encouraging faster tissue healing. The injections are prepared by using the patient's own blood. The collected blood is spun (centrifuged) to create a mixture that's rich in platelets. Often delivered with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort, the injection is placed directly into the injured area.

Platelet Rich Plasma Alternative for Surgery

Platelet rich plasma (PRP therapy) is a non-surgical procedure, which means that it does not require general anesthesia or an incision. This makes it a safer option for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery due to underlying health conditions or other factors. Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy has several advantages over surgery, including a shorter recovery time, fewer complications, and lower cost.

Results from PRP Therapy

When used in injection form, pain in the affected area may actually increase slightly during the first few weeks after it's given. The beneficial effects of the injection often become apparent beyond that point as tissues heal.

Conditions Managed with PRP Therapy

Chronic tendon injuries are the most common conditions PRP has been use for at this point. Such conditions may include Achilles tendonitis, patellar tendon inflammation ("jumper's knee"), and tennis elbow, a common overuse injury. Additional conditions treated with PRP therapy may include:

• Acute muscle and ligament injuries
• Knee and thigh sprains
• Sports-related injuries
• Knee, shoulder, spine, and hip arthritis/tendonitis
• Fractures (limited use)
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Tennis elbow
• Plantar fasciitis
• Low back pain

When to Consider PRP Injections

PRP injections may accelerate the healing of both acute and chronic joint and tendon injuries. While not for every condition that may affect joints, the treatment tends to be more effective on patients who are generally in good health. PRP therapy may help professional and amateur athletes get back into the game faster.

Unlike medications, which may just mask pain or lessen inflammation, regenerative medicine treatments work to activate the healing process in the body. This innovative approach helps to relieve symptoms by restoring healthy cells and tissue at the treatment site — healing the body from the inside out.

PRP therapy may produce results lasting anywhere from several months to indefinitely, depending on how well tissues heal. Risks associated with the injections are minimal.

Interested in Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Cosmetic? Click the link to learn more about how PRP is used for facial rejuvenation!