What is PRP?
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Platelets are the components of your blood that are best known for blood clotting. Blood is made up of 55% plasma, 45% red blood cells, and about 1% white blood cells and platelets. Platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors, which are important in the healing of injuries. PRP is the separation of those platelets and plasma from the rest of the blood, which results in a high concentration of the platelets within the plasma, hence, platelet-rich plasma.
How Does PRP Work? / How do we enhance your body’s natural PRP?
PRP augments your body’s own healing potential and capacity. After an injury occurs, platelets are the first responders to the site and release signaling molecules called cytokines and healing proteins called growth factors. Cytokines are small proteins that allow your cells to “talk” to each other to optimize immune response and healing, whereas growth factors in the body do the work and heal damage. Next, white blood cells, which also release growth factors, are summoned to the injured area to help heal.
PRP takes a higher concentration of platelets and the growth factors circulating in your blood and delivers it right to the site of injury.
PRP helps people with:
- Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis
- Lateral Epicondylitis/Tennis Elbow
- Achilles Tendonitis/Tendinosis
- Patients receiving PRP post-surgically after achilles surgery had decreased time to regain range of motion, and return to their activities (16)
- Patellar Tendinosis/Tendinitis/Jumper’s Knee
- Safer than cortisone injection, and when combined with eccentric exercises, better healing than eccentric exercises or dry needling alone (17)
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Shoulder Impingement
- Hip Bursitis
- Patients treated with PRP for hip bursitis had better outcomes and longer lasting relief compared to patients receiving cortisone injection (22)
- Knee Arthritis
- PRP injection was superior in short and long term pain relief when compared to hyaluronic acid injections (24)
Studies showing improved pain relief, at least for the first 6 months when compared to cortisone injection – a safer alternative to a cortisone injection.
What Is The Procedure For PRP Like?
The procedure starts with a simple blood draw. The blood sample is then placed in a centrifuge that spins at a high speed, separating the platelets from the other components of whole blood. Concentrated platelets and white blood cells are removed and then are injected into the injured tissue. We use ultrasound and/or fluoroscopic guidance for pinpoint accuracy.
High concentration autologous PRP, containing powerful growth factors and cytokines, helps to jumpstart the healing process. It has even been shown to improve the quality of healing when compared to normal healing.
Not all PRP procedures are equal
We use a double spin process that creates a pure PRP and preserves the highest concentration of PRP. Our kits ensure that no outside agents can enter the blood once drawn from our patients, making our procedures better and safer.
What Should I Do To Prepare For The Procedure?
We recommend that you avoid any NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, meloxicam) for at least 4 days prior to your procedure. It is best to avoid receiving a steroid injection in the weeks leading up to your procedure as well. Stay hydrated and try to drink at least 60 oz of water a day in the 2-3 days prior to the procedure.