Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections can be thought of as a gift from our own body to help us heal. PRP is a solution of concentrated platelets made from your own blood. It can be used to decrease pain, stimulate healing and improve tissue function. PRP injections is the leading therapy used to heal injured tendons & ligaments, arthritic joints, muscles and dysfunctional nerves.
How PRP is Prepared
Platelets are found in the plasma of our blood. Our blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets all floating within a fluid plasma. PRP is the plasma and concentrated platelets minus the red blood cells. This is done by spinning your blood in a centrifuge at specific times and velocities. The force generated by the centrifuge segregates the cells from the plasma and platelets. The plasma is then further processed to create a concentrated solution of platelets.
How Does PRP Work?
Platelets are the first responders to any injury, they mobilize the immune system and start the healing process. When concentrated platelets are delivered to the injury site with a PRP injection, they become activated and stick together with fibrin in a glue like fashion. Next, they burst open and release an array of natural growth factors. These growth factors signal to the stem cells and other specialized cells to come to the area of injury and start the process of healing. They also stimulate these cells to replicate and specialize into tissue specific workers. Some of the growth factors can decrease pain, improve blood flow and stimulate nerve regeneration. The glue-like substance of platelets and fibrin can stick around in the injury site for 1-2 weeks providing a sustained release of growth factors.