What are platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections?

PRP injections contain a high concentration of platelets (cells in your blood) mixed with plasma (the liquid part of your blood). Your provider makes PRP by taking a sample of your blood and putting it in a centrifuge that separates the platelets and plasma. Then they draw the PRP into a needle and inject it at the site of your orthopedic condition.

 

How do PRP injections promote healing?

Platelets are one of your body’s most vital healing cells. They travel to injured tissues and release proteins called growth factors. The growth factors trigger cellular activities that:

  • Reduce inflammation
  • Speed-up healing
  • Stimulate new blood vessel growth
  • Support new tissue development

PRP also recruits other healing cells that produce new tissues to repair the injury.

 

Why would I need a PRP injection?

You may need a boost of platelets when you have a wound healing slowly or a severe injury that overwhelms your body’s platelet supply.

PRP injections also help if the injured tissues don’t get enough blood. Platelets in your body can’t do their job if there isn’t enough blood to carry them to the injury.

Your age could also be a factor. As you get older, your body’s healing response slows down, and after 50, platelet production drops by 8%.

You can overcome all these issues with a PRP injection. After your provider injects the platelets, they do their usual job, releasing growth factors that improve healing.

 

What orthopedic conditions improve with PRP injections?

Your provider may recommend PRP for inflammatory conditions like tendonitis and bursitis and nearly any type of orthopedic injury or condition. PRP is especially beneficial for orthopedic conditions because it helps rebuild damaged muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, bones, blood vessels, nerves, and skin.

 

Does PRP make a good joint injection?

The North Valley Orthopedic Institute team often injects PRP into injured and damaged joints. PRP supports treating joints with inflammation and damaged cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. The team also recommends PRP joint injections for arthritis.

 

What happens during a PRP injection?

After preparing your PRP, your provider applies a topical anesthetic at the injection site. They use ultrasound imaging to see the injured area and guide the needle to the damaged tissues. Then they inject your PRP.

Book an appointment online or call the nearest office today to learn if PRP injections can ease your pain.

 

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