Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is an innovative regenerative treatment that significantly speeds up the healing of musculoskeletal conditions. For many patients, PRP can provide exceptional relief from pain, discomfort, and limited mobility without the need for surgery. But given that PRP is a new treatment option, many patients don’t know a lot about it. Below, you’ll find a few key points to know about PRP as a treatment option for many conditions and injuries.
PRP Is Derived From Your Own Blood.
One of the main misconceptions about PRP is that it’s an injection of platelets from a foreign source. That’s not the case! In PRP treatment, the doctor extracts blood directly from the patient. That blood is treated to concentrate the platelets. These platelets are then injected back into the patient at the site of the injury. The growth factors in the platelets can then get to work to speed up the healing process and provide long-lasting pain relief.
PRP Is Safe and Won’t Cause Complications.
Since the blood components used in PRP treatment come from the patient, there’s essentially no risk for complications. While the patient may at first feel some soreness and swelling at the site of the injection, these effects will go away after a few days. PRP is a safe, effective treatment option for conditions including osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, ACL injuries, tendonitis, rotator cuff tears, chronic neck or low back pain, and more.
The Full Healing Effect of PRP May Take 4 to 6 Weeks.
It may take some time after the PRP treatment for the injury to fully heal. As the platelets speed up healing, stimulate cell proliferation, and prompt tissue reconstruction, the treated area will gradually recover. Patients generally feel the effect of PRP treatment four to six weeks after the injection, and the results are long-lasting.
To learn more about PRP treatment and how it may help you recover from a musculoskeletal injury or condition, contact us today to schedule an appointment.