Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses a patient’s own blood components to promote healing and reduce pain in injured or degenerative tissues. PRP is rich in growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, which can lead to reduced pain and improved function. PRP therapy is considered a natural approach to pain management as it harnesses the body’s own healing capabilities.

What Conditions Can PRP Therapy Help With?

PRP therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, especially those involving soft tissue or joint pain, including:

• Osteoarthritis (especially in the knee, hip, or shoulder)
• Tendon injuries (such as tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis, and rotator cuff injuries)
• Ligament injuries
• Muscle strains
• Joint pain and inflammation

PRP can also be used as part of post-surgical recovery or injury rehabilitation plans to enhance healing.

Procedure Overview

The PRP procedure is minimally invasive and is usually performed in an outpatient setting. The treatment takes about an hour, including preparation and recovery time.

Steps of PRP Therapy

1. Blood Draw

A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, similar to a routine blood test. The amount of blood taken depends on the area being treated, typically ranging from 15 to 60 milliliters.

2. Processing the Blood

The drawn blood is placed into a centrifuge, a machine that spins the blood at high speeds to separate the platelets from other blood components. This process concentrates the platelets, creating the PRP solution, which is rich in growth factors essential for healing.

3. Preparation of the Injection Site

The area to be treated is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area and reduce discomfort.

4. Injection of PRP

Using imaging guidance (such as ultrasound) if necessary, the physician injects the PRP solution directly into the injured or painful tissue. This placement allows the PRP to release growth factors at the site, encouraging tissue repair and reducing inflammation over time.

5. Post-Injection Monitoring

After the injection, you’ll be monitored briefly to ensure you’re comfortable and there are no immediate side effects. Most patients feel only mild soreness at the injection site, which is normal.

When Can I Go Home?

Patients can generally go home shortly after the procedure, typically within 15-30 minutes following the injection. PRP therapy is minimally invasive, and most patients can resume light activities the same day. It’s usually recommended to avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for 48-72 hours after the procedure.

After the Procedure

• Pain Management: Mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site is normal and may last for a few days. Ice and over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen or naproxen), as they can interfere with the healing process.
• Activity: Light activities are usually permitted, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 1-2 weeks, depending on the area treated. Your doctor may also recommend a physical therapy plan to support recovery.

Frequency of PRP Therapy

The number of PRP treatments needed varies depending on the condition, the patient’s response to treatment, and the severity of the pain or injury:

• Single Injection: Some patients experience significant relief after just one injection, particularly for mild injuries or early-stage joint conditions.
• Series of Injections: For chronic or severe conditions, a series of 2-3 injections spaced several weeks apart may be recommended for optimal pain relief and healing.

Results from PRP therapy are often gradual, with many patients noticing improvement within a few weeks after the first injection, though full effects may take up to several months.

Final Thoughts

Many patients experience long-lasting pain relief and improved function following PRP therapy. The treatment is especially beneficial for those seeking a natural approach to healing, as PRP uses your own blood components without the need for drugs or surgical intervention. However, as with any treatment, the degree of pain relief and improvement varies among individuals.

If you have any questions about your recovery or if you need further guidance after the procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our office.