Platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP injection) can help injured joints and other problems. It uses parts of your own blood to reduce pain and speed up healing. PRP may help if you have: meniscus tears in your knee. Rotator cuff tears in your shoulder. Plantar fasciitis in your foot. And injuries in your spine, hip or elbow.
Some parts of your body, such as ligaments and tendons, have difficulty healing. These tissues, which connect bones and muscles, receive limited blood flow, slowing down the healing process. As a result, injuries like sprains and strains to these areas can take a long time to recover. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment designed to speed up the healing process by utilizing your own blood. PRP works by harnessing the natural healing properties of platelets, which are rich in growth factors that stimulate tissue regeneration.
PRP Injection Procedure
The process starts by drawing a small sample of your blood. The blood is placed into a centrifuge, which spins it at high speed to separate the various components. This separates the blood into red and white blood cells, plasma, and platelets. The platelets are then concentrated and mixed with some plasma, creating platelet-rich plasma. The doctor injects this mixture directly into the site of your injury. Once the PRP injection is adminstered, the immune system is activated, and specialized white blood cells known as macrophages rush to the area. These cells clean up damaged tissue, setting the stage for the body’s natural healing process.
In the days and weeks that follow, stem cells and other repair cells start to multiply, gradually rebuilding the injured tissues. The result is faster recovery and potentially a reduction in pain. Many patients see significant improvements in their healing, although some may require multiple treatments before full recovery occurs. One of the key benefits of a PRP injection is that the process is relatively quick, and most patients can go home the same day.
If you’re suffering from an injury that is slow to heal or are experiencing chronic pain from ligament or tendon damage, you might consider PRP therapy. For more personalized care, visit University Pain and Spine Center for expert evaluation and treatment. We offer advanced therapies and treatments, including PRP, to help patients recover from injuries, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life. At University Pain and Spine Center, our specialists diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues, ensuring that you receive the best care tailored to your specific needs.