Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP):

  • PRP is a concentration of your own platelets. These platelets normally circulate through the blood and are critical for blood clotting and healing. Platelets and the liquid plasma portion of the blood contain many healing factors. These factors are essential for the cell recruitment, multiplication and specialization that are required for healing.

  • After your blood sample is obtained, it is put into a centrifuge to separate the blood into its many components. PRP can then be collected and delivered to the injured area.

  • Once platelets are in the injured area, they break down and release growth factors, which are compounds that help cells repair and regenerate.


How does PRP work:

  • PRP uses platelets and the corresponding growth factors to mimic your body’s natural healing response.

  • There are several growth factors that are found in platelets including:

    • Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)

    • Platelet-derived angiogenesis factor (PDAF)

    • Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)

    • Transforming growth factor (TGF-β)

    • Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)

    • and several others.

  • The presence of these compounds signals the inflammatory response, which attracts blood flow and therefore accelerates healing. This stimulates cellular growth, tissue repair, and collagen production.


Who can benefit:

  • Knee ligament and meniscus Injuries

  • Rotator Cuff Tears

  • Hip and SI injuries

  • Tennis/Golfers Elbow

  • Ankle sprains

  • Wrist injuries

  • Tendinitis

  • Ligament Sprains

  • Osteoarthritis of the Knee, Shoulder, Hip, and Spine

  • Joint Instability/hypermobility

  • Plantar Fasciitis


Who should not have PRP:

  • Abnormal platelet function

  • Low platelet count

  • If you have an active infection

  • Active Cancers

  • Severe anemia


How many treatments will you need:

  • This largely depends on the specific condition for which you are receiving treatment. Some patients experience significant improvement with just a single treatment. However, between two and six treatments for a single condition is not uncommon.


What to do to prepare for your treatment:

  • Stop taking anti-inflammatory medications for 1 week prior to the injections

  • Drink plenty of fluids 24-48 hours prior to treatment.

  • Eat as clean as possible 4-6 days before treatment.


What to do after your treatment:

  • Keep the injection site clean and dry

  • Do not use ice or cold applications on the injection sites

  • Do not use anti-inflammatory medications for 2 weeks after injections

    • Aspirin

    • Ibuprofen

    • Naproxen

  • You can use Acetaminophen, Paracetamol (Tylenol) as needed. This does not negatively affect the treatment outcomes.

  • Take it easy for 24-48hrs. Be cautious not to aggravate the injection sites with too much movement.

  • Avoid alcohol for 7 days