Platelet-rich plasma therapy, also known as PRP therapy, brings relief to many people worldwide. This non-surgical technique is highly effective for many conditions and can be a successful alternative to opioid prescriptions.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy?
During PRP therapy, a medical professional will draw your blood (just as they do for routine medical tests) and place it in a centrifuge machine. This device will separate the platelet-rich plasma from the other components of the blood. Then, your practitioner will inject your platelets into the site that needs healing.
Why Is PRP So Effective In Pain Management?
Platelets contain growth and healing factors that speed up your body’s natural healing process. Because your injection will be richer in platelets than your blood normally is, your body should be able to repair its injuries and heal far more quickly than usual.
How Long Do PRP Treatments Take?
The procedure will take forty-five minutes to two hours, and most patients return immediately to work or other activities. You should be able to feel your pain decreasing within a few weeks or even a few days. However, some patients will require a series of two or three treatments.
What Conditions Can PRP Help Treat?
While PRP therapy may seem like a niche procedure, many patients can enjoy it for various health and wellness reasons. Existing reports show many successes in resolving pain caused by several chronic ailments and conditions.
- Ankle Sprains
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries
- Back & Neck Pain
- Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
- Knee & Hip Pain
- Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
- Muscle Strains & Tears
- Osteoarthritis
- Pelvic Pain
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Spine-Related Issues
- Tendonitis
- Tennis Elbow
Who Should Consider PRP Therapy Treatments?
PRP therapy is an excellent treatment option for people dealing with several ailments. However, you may want to consider treatments if you meet a few key conditions.
- Experienced pain for more than three months.
- Have not found success with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications.
- Want to find an alternative to surgery.
- Do not have severe anemia, a low platelet count, or systemic infection.
How Long Will PRP Injection Relief Last?
Many people report that the relief lasts for months. However, some patients need pain injections every four to six months. Ask your pain doctor what your expectations should be for your specific condition.
Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy Painful?
You can expect to feel some soreness around the injection site, but most patients find that it passes in a day or two.
Are There Risks Associated With PRP Treatments?
Because your blood will be used in your treatment, there is no risk of catching a blood-borne disease from anyone else, and your risk of an immune reaction is very low. You will probably experience discomfort and bruising around the injection, but this should pass in a day or two. Being hydrated before your treatment will help you avoid light-headedness during the blood draw.
Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment Right For You?
Advanced Pain Medical Group can help determine if PRP injections for pain will benefit you. We have eight pain clinic locations in Los Angeles, Kern, and Ventura counties. Call us today to make an appointment to schedule your consultation.