PRP Injection Specialist

What are Platelet Rich Plasma Injections?

Platelet activation plays a crucial role in recovery and healing. The use of platelet rich plasma, or PRP, injections is to stimulate the body’s natural healing ability. The treatment involves a portion of the patient’s blood, treated to contain a platelet concentration above the baseline is injected to promote healing of injured ligaments, tendons, muscles, and joints. The PRP injections are prepared from a few tubes of the patient’s blood using strict antiseptic techniques. The blood is then centrifuged to separate out the PRP. The activated platelets are then injected into the injured or damaged tissues, releasing growth factors increase production of repairing cells. Occasionally, ultrasound imaging is used to guide the injection into the correct position. This treatment is very new and more and more developments are being made each day.

What Conditions Are Treated with PRP Injections?

The first thing the body does in response to injuries to soft tissue such as muscle, tendons, ligaments and fascia is to send platelets and their natural healing properties to the injuried area. By injecting platelet rich plasma directly to the injury site, the doctor is able to further stimulate the healing process. Foot and ankle conditions which can be treated with PRP injections include:

• Ankle Sprains
• Tendonitis
• Fractures
• Post-surgical Healing
• Osteoarthritis
• fasciitis

How Long do Platelet Rich Plasma Injections Take?

The procedure normally takes roughly 2 to 3 hours, including the preparation and recovery time. Performed safely in the doctor’s office, PRP therapy alleviates pain without the risks of general anesthesia, surgical procedures, or hospital stays and without a extended recovery period. Usually, most patients can return to their jobs or normal activities just after the procedure has been completed.

How Often Should the Procedure Be Done?

The doctor will discuss this with patients because it can vary. Up to three injections can be given within a six-month period. However, a large number of patients obtain significant to total relief after the first few injections.