What Is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy and What Can It Treat?

Many patients are contacting our office to learn more about platelet-rich plasma therapy after hearing about it in the news. With famous athletes using this treatment like Tiger Woods, this innovative solution has become more mainstream. This is a good thing because it can be highly effective for everyone, not just professional athletes. In fact, the majority of people who visit our office are not athletes at all. Instead, they are adults looking to promote healing, increased mobility and strength and to live their best life. With that in mind, here is what you need to know about platelet-rich plasma or PRP treatments.

What is platelet-rich plasma?

To understand platelet-rich plasma therapy, it is important to know a little bit about biology and how the body works. Everyone knows that blood is essential to the body. The heart has to pump enough of it for the body to continue functioning. However, few people realize what the blood is made of. The liquid portion of the blood is called plasma, and this makes up the majority of the blood. In addition, blood contains platelets which are necessary for clotting blood. They also contain growth factors. Growth factors are proteins and they are critically necessary for giving the body the ability to heal itself. Without enough of these growth factors, it can be difficult or impossible for the body to heal itself internally. So, when we speak about platelet-rich plasma therapy, we are talking about plasma (the liquid portion of the blood) that contains a higher level of platelets and growth factors than what the body would normally produce. With the additional growth factors, it is easier for the body to heal itself.

Is the procedure invasive?

In the traditional sense, no. This is not surgical. However, blood will need to be removed from a patient so that platelets can be separated from the other blood cells. This is necessary for reaching the level of concentration required to inject more growth factors into the body. So, the only thing invasive about this is the removal of blood and then needing to put blood back into the body.

Where is the blood injected?

Typically, it is injected into the area that has been injured. For example, if someone has inflamed tissue in their heel, inserting blood into that area may help to speed up healing.

How do I know if this treatment is right for me?

We recommend calling our office and scheduling a consultation and examination. This will allow us to make a recommendation regarding the best way to treat whatever condition that you are struggling with. If the best option is PRP, we will make a recommendation at that time and answer questions specific to how we will be conducting the treatment.

Learn more about platelet-rich plasma therapy

This is truly an innovative approach to healthcare and pain management because it allows the body to heal itself without the use of medications or invasive procedures. To find out if this option will help you, call and schedule an appointment today.