Platelets are small cell fragments present in the blood. They are formed in the bone marrow. When an injury occurs, the platelets gather at the injury site to release special proteins and various growth factors. PRP is a concentration of these platelets, proteins, and growth factors. New research has indicated that administration of PRP to the injury site may promote faster and more comprehensive healing.

Healing after an injury involves a well-orchestrated and complex series of events where proteins in the blood act as messengers to stimulate and regulate the healing process. Many proteins directly involved in this process are derived from platelets. They are formed in the bone marrow and are freely passing through the bloodstream. When an injury occurs, the platelets become activated and start to gather at the injury site to release beneficial regulatory proteins and growth factors. This is the beginning of the healing process. The use of platelet rich plasma has created growing interest for its use in orthopedics and sports medicine procedures. New research and technology has expanded the application of this therapy for use during the intraoperative as well as the postoperative/recovery phase.

PRP Indications:

PRP stimulates the body’s natural ability to heal. It can be used in any stage of your treatment and recovery. PRP can be used as an effective and natural alternative to oral medications or steroid injections. There are indications for its use during certain procedures such as rotator cuff surgery and ACL reconstruction. It can also be used as a postoperative recovery tool to accelerate your healing.

.     ACL Reconstruction

.     Meniscus Repair

.     Rotator Cuff Injuries and Surgery

.     Tendonitis

.     Osteoarthritis (Knee and Shoulder)

.     Muscle Strains and Tears

.     Joint Pain

.
    Neck & Back Pain


PRP Procedure:

In the office setting, your healthcare provider will obtain a small amount of blood using sterile technique. The blood is placed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets and growth factors. This usually takes approximately 20 minutes. The PRP is then injected to the area of injury using a small gauge needle. A period of rest for 10-14 days and the discontinuation of anti-inflammatory medications may be advised.

PRP Results:

Many studies of individuals with sports related injuries have confirmed significant improvement in pain, function and healing time with PRP injections after an injury.
Results vary from individual to individual. Some patients experience increased benefit from multiple injections.

What you should know:

PRP uses natural properties of your own body to treat your injury. Side-effects utilizing PRP systems are very uncommon.
PRP was first introduced in the 1970's however, the FDA and many insurance companies still consider PRP experimental and deny coverage. Risks include infection, increased temporary pain and swelling, bruising and recurrent symptoms. No risk of disease transmission has ever been reported.



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