Platelet-rich Plasma or PRP is a cutting-edge treatment for many musculoskeletal problems. Your blood has a liquid matrix called plasma which carries red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. Platelets aid in blood clotting. Platelets also contain growth factors that help in wound and injury healing.
The PRP treatment is administered through a PRP injection. Blood is drawn from the patient and centrifuged to separate platelets. These platelets are injected back into the patient, sometimes using ultrasound to precisely guide the injection into the site of tissue damage.
How does PRP Treatment Work?
Concentrated platelets, with growth factors, can fasten the healing process. Medications, like Advil, that reduce inflammatory response are avoided after a PRP injection since they inhibit healing. PRP and local anesthetic mixture is injected into an injured area. Patients may initially experience a slight increase in the pain before tissue generation kicks in and healing begins.
Who can Benefit from PRP Treatments?
A variety of conditions can be treated with PRP. PRP is the most effective treatment for athletes, arthritis patients and those recovering from surgery –
- chronic tendon injuries, like tennis elbow or Achilles tendonitis
- acute ligament injuries
- muscle injuries
Since the platelet rich plasma is developed from a patient’s own blood, the PRP treatment carries almost no risk of infection or rejection. In addition, the treatment stimulates natural healing in the damaged tissues. This makes PRP a rare treatment option that treats the root cause instead of simply alleviating the symptoms.
