Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for Acute Ligament Injury
The human body has a natural ability to heal itself. However, this requires that the body is in peak condition with all of its structures functioning properly. When this does not happen, intervention may be necessary. The team at The Wellness Center PDX can help with that. They have served the people of Oregon from two locations – Portland and Beaverton – for years and they can help you too.
One way that we can help with acute ligament pain is through the injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Read on to find out more about this revolutionary treatment option and how we can help you to overcome pain and loss of mobility.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
The body forms new cells all the time to replace old or damaged tissues. However, as we grow older this ability lessens. When conditions that cause acute ligament pain arise, conventional medicine often falls short of a solution. Generally, the best that can be done is to mask the pain rather than provide actual pain relief. With the help of regenerative medical options – such as PRP therapy – this is changing.
Blood is made up primarily of plasma but also contain small components known as platelets, among other things. These platelets are important for clotting blood. In addition to their clotting function, platelets also contain hundreds of growth factors – proteins which are essential to healing.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
With PRP blood is drawn from the patient and the platelets are separated out. They are then spun on a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. These super concentrated platelets are then combined with the remaining blood. This concentration can be more than ten times than the original amount. Although it is not entirely certain how PRP works, studies have indicated that an increased concentration of growth factors might speed up the healing process.
It may be necessary for patients to go through a series of up to three PRP injections. Generally, there is a four to six-week break between these injections. Furthermore, physical rehab can add to the speed of recovery and pain relief.
Acute Ligament Injury
Ligament and muscle injuries – such as those incurred during sporting activities – are the most widespread injuries treated by PRP therapy to date. It has been utilized for years by professional athletes to treat sports injuries such as knee sprains, pulled hamstring, and more acute ligament injuries.
At this time, studies are being conducted to determine the reliability of this treatment option.