Nov 17
Platelet Rich Plasma Injections
What is PRP?
Platelet Rich Plasma therapy is an injection therapy that uses components of a patient’s own blood to treat areas of injury. Plasma is the fluid that our blood cells are suspended in. Platelets are a component of our blood that are essential for initiating blood clotting and signaling. They communicate by releasing growth factors to stimulate tissue healing. Once isolated, the platelet rich plasma in injected into the injured area where it can moderate inflammation and re-initiate the healing process. It can be very helpful for tissues that do not have a rich vascular supply of their own (tendons, ligaments, cartilage).
How is PRP isolated?
Blood is drawn from the patient, similar to getting a blood draw for lab work. The whole blood is spun in a centrifuge. This spins the blood at high speeds, allowing the different components to separate in layers based on density. Once separated the platelet rich plasma is collected from the tube carefully, and prepared for injection. The PRP is injected using a narrow (25 gauge) needle, and is injected into the site of chief complaint pain.
Platelet Rich Plasma has been being used safely for decades. It is a brief procedure with minimal disruption to daily activities.
Benefits of PRP
PRP comes from the patient’s own blood
- Uses the body’s natural healing ability
- Long term solution, aimed at repairing
- injured or damaged tissue
- brief in-office procedure
- Low risk
- Cost effective compared to surgical repair
What does PRP Treat?
PRP can be used to treat the following, among other things
Osteoarthritis Tendonitis affecting the:
Shoulder (e.g. rotator cuff tendonitis)
Ankle (e.g. Achilles tendonitis)
Knee (e.g. “Jumper’s knee”)
Elbow (e.g. “Tennis elbow”)
Plantar fascia injuries, fasciitis Ligament sprains, laxity, tears Meniscal injuries
Labrum tears
Schedule a consult today by calling 503-783-8543 or schedule an appointment by going to www.thewellnesscenterpdx.com to learn more