What Is PRP Or Platelet Rich Plasma?

Platelet-rich plasma is a concentrate derived from whole blood. Using a variable centrifuge machine this blood is spun down to separate out and concentrate the platelets and growth factors essential for tissue healing. One of the great benefits about PRP treatment is that the blood used for the treatment is drawn from the patient. This limits the possibility of allergic reaction or infection.

How is PRP used for Pain Management?

PRP injections are effective treatment of chronic tendon injury. Of particular note are elbow injuries such as tennis elbow and golfers elbow. These common injuries affect tendons of the affected joints, and their effects can spread to the whole arm. Studies show that PRP helps promote healing of injured joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Inflammation affecting joints can also be addressed by directed PRP injections.

When treating osteoarthritis with platelet-rich plasma, a doctor injects PRP directly into the affected joint. The goal is to:

• Reduce pain
• Improve joint function of the knee, hip, elbow, ankle and hands
• Possibly slow, halt, or even repair damage to cartilage

PRP is seen as an alternative to other typical solutions for injured joints and osteoarthritis. Surgeries potentially cause further damage to joints affected by injury or arthritis, and multiple surgeries may be required to full correct an issue. Cortisone shots, another popular pain management solution, have side effects that include potentially damaging healthy ligaments and tendons. Additionally, cortisone treatments must be limited to avoid possible health issues.

Is The Procedure Painful?

Patients typically experience significant reduction in pain after the first or second injection. PRP injections are not painful and its easily done by a pain specialist at our office.

How Long Does It Take For PRP To Work?

Most patients notice some element of improvement by 2-6 weeks after PRP. Usually a second treatment is needed 6 weeks after the first session. Professional athletes who have undergone PRP injections have seen a full return to activity within months of treatment.

What are the Contraindications for the Procedure?

• Medical conditions that could worsen or spread with injections, such as an active infection, a metastatic disease, or certain skin diseases
• Have certain blood and bleeding disorders
• Are undergoing anticoagulation therapy
• Are anemic
• Are pregnant

MD ageless PRP Pain Management Services include:

• PRP for Knee Pain
• PRP for Back Pain
• PRP for Hip Pain
• PRP for Shoulder Pain
• PRP for Skin Rejuvenation
• PRP for Acne