Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine in which your body’s own platelets are extracted from your blood and used to heal new or old injuries. Platelets are a component of your blood that can help heal tissues due to unique proteins called growth factors. Basically, PRP is plasma (the liquid that makes up the majority of your blood) that is rich in platelets, which may help accelerate healing and reduce pain.
How Does PRP Work?
The platelets in PRP therapy are thought to help heal tissues by using one of the body’s own healing mechanisms—platelets—in concentrated forms where chronic or acute injuries exist. The growth factors platelets contain help accelerate the body’s natural healing process.
During your appointment for PRP therapy, your physician will draw blood from your arm as with a normal bloodwork procedure. The platelets will be separated in a centrifuge, and then prepared in a syringe with plasma for injection.
Depending on the site of your injury, your physician will numb the area to prevent any discomfort, then inject the platelet-rich plasma back into your body. An ultrasound is typically used to ensure complete accuracy during the process. The platelets will then work to accelerate healing over the next few weeks.
This outpatient procedure is done at our pain and wellness center and will not take long. You may experience some minor discomfort or bruising at the injection site afterward, but most people can return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure.
What Conditions Can PRP Treat?
An excellent choice for injured tendons, ligaments and muscles, PRP can also help sprains. PRP may also help joints that have been affected by arthritis. Rotator cuff and ACL tears are also
candidates for this procedure. Your board-certified physician at Summit Spine & Joint Centers can determine if you qualify for PRP therapy during your consultation.
What Are the Benefits of PRP Therapy?
One of the best benefits of PRP therapy is that it can treat conditions that otherwise would need medication or surgery to fix, all during a non-invasive, outpatient appointment with minimal side effects.
PRP therapy involves minimal recovery time and is considered safe since it uses your own blood. It can even be used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or physical therapy, to help tissues heal faster and alleviate discomfort.
Make an Appointment at Our Pain & Wellness Center
Are you interested in PRP therapy to help accelerate healing and reduce pain? See if you qualify for this procedure by scheduling an appointment at Summit Spine & Joint Centers. Call our pain and wellness center at (770) 962-3642 or contact us online to find out more!