Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
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A game-changer for many, platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy can successfully eliminate the discomfort of a variety of orthopedic conditions. Whether you suffer from torn tendons, degenerative joints, or ruptured discs, PRP can provide an exciting option for relief.
All of this sounds probably great. But, you’re likely wondering: What is platelet rich plasma therapy? And, how exactly does it work? Let’s take a more careful look below!
The Basics of Blood
Your blood is composed of three main components: blood cells, plasma, and platelets. However, your red and white blood cells constitute the element of blood that receives the most fanfare. These cells circulate through our arteries and veins as they fight infections, deliver oxygen to the body, and remove CO2. However, although vastly important to our health and well-being, these components do not participate in platelet rich plasma therapy. For that, we look solely to our plasma (the watery component of blood) and our platelets (plate-shaped blood cells).
More specifically, plasma—composed of a mixture of water, sugar, salt, protein, and fat—forms the liquid component of blood. Our plasma facilitates the movement of blood cells and acts as the vehicle to deploy nutrients to the body.
In addition, we can find our platelets—particles even smaller than blood cells—floating around in this plasma. Totaling only 1% of blood content, these platelets nonetheless fulfill two important goals. Our platelets clot blood when we experience a bleed, and they promote the healing of our wounds. Correspondingly, because of their healing properties, modern science has harnessed these therapeutic benefits through the use of PRP.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy Technique
Specifically, PRP harnesses the restorative power of your body’s platelets to create a healing serum. To obtain this Platelet Rich Plasma, your surgeon and their team of clinicians will employ the following steps:
- Your doctor will draw a small amount of blood—about the same as for a regular blood test—from your body.
- A laboratory technician will spin your blood through a centrifuge to isolate each component of blood. This will separate out the desired platelets from the red and white blood cells.
- Next, your technician will remove blood cells from the solution while retaining your plasma, now dense with platelets.
- Your doctor will inject this “platelet rich” plasma into the affected joints or tissues that require healing. Depending on the location of the injection, your doctor may use a local anesthetic to numb any pain.
- For injections near the spine, your doctor will likely use x-ray guidance to ensure proper placement of the plasma. Additionally, to treat joints or your extremities, your doctor may use ultrasound technology for improved visualization.
From start to finish, PRP typically only requires an hour of time to execute and perfect. And, with very few associated side effects, many individuals can resume their daily activities in no time. Some individuals, however, may require multiple injections to achieve the full benefits of this procedure.
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What Are The Advantages Of Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?
Modern advances in medical technology and treatment have introduced longer term healing options to more and more individuals. Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy is one of these state-of-the-art options. Through the use of this minimally invasive procedure, you can take advantage of the following benefits:
- Minimally Invasive Treatment: This minimally invasive procedure requires the use of needles and noninvasive imaging techniques. No incisions are required, which means that healing is accelerated.
- Sourced From Your Own Body: Furthermore, PRP utilizes blood drawn from your own body, eliminating the need for artificial materials or lab-developed injections.
- Expedient Treatment: From the initial drawing of your blood to injection, the entire PRP process typically requires only an hour.
- Long-Term Relief: Platelet Rich Plasma promotes the regeneration and reparation of tissues, allowing for true long-term healing. Compared to short-term pain relief options, and invasive surgical techniques, PRP can provide lasting results with little to no side effects.
The benefits of PRP speak for themselves. And, the proof is in the results: Innumerable patients who suffered from injuries or tissue degeneration have been able to achieve longer lasting relief. Without even having to step foot inside a hospital or operating room, you too could reap these benefits. Interested in learning more? Call New Jersey Spine & Orthopedic today to set up your first consultation.
Who can Benefit from Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?
Platelet cells work in conjunction with your body’s adaptive immune system to promote healing throughout your body. For this reason alone, the implications of platelet rich plasma therapy for orthopedics are far-ranging. Primarily used by professional athletes to treat sports injuries, PRP can also benefit individuals who suffer from any of the following:
- Herniated or Bulging Discs
- Facet Joint Disease
- Degenerative Arthritis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Shoulder Bursitis
- Shoulder Instability
- Tennis Elbow (aka Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Sciatica
- Knee Sprains or Instability
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Ankle Sprains
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, spine, or joints
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Sacroiliitis
However, please bear in mind that this list is not exhaustive. Only your physician can decide if Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy can help you. Ready to explore the PRP process? Dr. Katzman and his team at New Jersey Spine & Orthopedic possess the knowledge and skills to help you reclaim your life from chronic pain. Contact NJSO today to schedule an appointment with one of our board certified orthopedic and spine experts!
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How Do I Know If I Qualify For Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?
If you suffer from any of the orthopedic conditions listed above, Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy could benefit you. Especially if you have been unable to find relief through more conservative treatment options…
If you have life-threatening symptoms, especially with spinal cord involvement, then PRP may not benefit you. Furthermore, if you have an infection in the targeted location or a compromised immune system, then you may not qualify for PRP.
To evaluate your candidacy for Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy, please contact a medical professional for further examination. Looking for a board-certified specialist in PRP? Our expert team at New Jersey Spine & Ortho can help you navigate your treatment and recovery process. Contact NJSO today to set up your consultation and get the ball rolling to a happier, healthier, and pain-free future!
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