What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is when plasma from blood, which is rich in platelets, is extracted and injected into the source of pain. Platelets contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors which are very important in the healing of injuries.
To prepare platelet-rich plasma, blood is first drawn from the patient. Then the blood is centrifuged to separate the platelets from other blood cells (red blood cells and white blood cells), therefore increasing the concentration of platelets in plasma. The PRP is then injected back into the patient at or around the point of injury, strengthening the healing process. The platelets will begin to repair and attract the assistance of stem cells. Platelet-rich plasma’s natural healing process intensifies the body’s efforts by introducing a higher concentration of platelets directly into the area needed.
Platelet-rich plasma injections provide a longer-lasting solution as it does not wear off like conventional pain injections.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can treat...
PRP is commonly used to treat:
- Osteoarthritis of the Knee, Shoulder, Hip
- Lumbar and cervical facet joint arthritis and pain
- Arthritis of other areas
- Bursitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- ACL Injuries
- Tendinitis
Due to the patient’s own blood being used, there is no risk of transmissible infection and little to no risk of an allergic reaction.