PLATELET RICH PLASMA INJECTIONS
What Is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment is becoming a more popular option for giving a biological boost to the healing process. The PRP injection uses each individual patient’s own healing system to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints. PRP is produced from your own blood and consists of a concentration of a patient’s platelets. Platelet’s concentration can be 5 to 10 times greater or richer than usual and contain many factors that are essential for the cell recruitment, multiplication and specialization that are required for healing.
What conditions are treated with PRP?
PRP can treat various problems including a sprained knee, chronic tendon injuries, acute ligament and muscle injuries, knee arthritis and more. Factors that can influence effectiveness of PRP treatment include area of body being treated, the overall health of the patient, and whether the injury is acute or chronic. PRP therapy stimulates and enhances healing of soft tissue, such as damage caused by:
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Joint and cartilage degeneration
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Labrum tears
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Ligament sprains and tears
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Loose ligaments
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Mild osteoarthritis
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Muscle tears
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Patellar tendinosis
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Plantar fasciitis
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Tendonitis
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Tendinosis
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Tendon tears
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Tennis elbow
Is PRP effective?
Several research studies are currently being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of PRP. The results suggest favorable findings that have led to the widespread use of PRP treatment for a variety of conditions. The risks associated with PRP are minimal and can also reduce the need for anti-inflammatories or strong medications like opioids. Your physicians will discuss the potential benefits and risks of PRP treatment.
Please note, that patients may require more than one injection at the same site over a period of time in order for the therapy to be completely effective.
How does it work?
An hour-long appointment will be scheduled for you in our Beverly office. After a blood sample is obtained from you, the blood is put into a centrifuge, which is a tool that separates blood into many components. Plasma is the liquid portion of whole blood, composed largely of water and proteins and provides a medium for red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Platelets are blood cells that cause blood clots and other necessary growth healing functions. Platelets are separated from other blood cells and their concentration is increased.
Activated platelets are injected directly into the injured or diseased body tissue. This releases growth factors that stimulate and increase the number or reparative cells your body produces. After the injection, a patient must avoid exercises for a short period of time.
Your physician and physician assistant will give you specific instructions tailored to your specific needs.
At Coastal Orthopedics, you can schedule an orthopedic appointment by phone at 978-927-3040,
submit our online form, or walk in to one of our three locations in Danvers, Gloucester or Beverly, MA.