Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a rather new method for accelerating the healing of certain tissues following injury. PRP injections are also employed to rejuvenate the facial skin and encourage hair cell production in areas where patterned baldness is occurring. Platelets contain special growth factors that help signal tissue regeneration or replacement, and platelet activation is key.
Many individuals have heard about PRP injections and wonder if it’s a complicated procedure with a lengthy recovery period. In fact, the process is very simple. The areas affected by platelet activation don’t normally become sore or swollen, and in the case of injury healing, there is no extended downtime for the patient. As a cosmetic procedure, PRP injections don’t result in side effects that would cause a disruption in the normal daily routine.
How It Works
A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient’s arm vein. It’s spun at high speed in a tube, and the centrifugal force separates the plasma and platelets from the red cells. The mix is further spun until the platelet count is extremely high, perhaps 90-93 percent of the total volume.
A chloride solution is mixed with the plasma and platelets, and this activates the release of proteins and other growth factors the platelets contain. The plasma is made into a thin gel and injected into areas where tissue regeneration is underway.
PRP Injections for Injuries
This type of procedure is usually performed when the injury involves damaged tendons or ligaments. The thin gel is injected into the soft tissues, and the activated platelets immediately signal nutrient distribution. These signaling agents include transforming growth factors, fibroblast growth factors, and vascular endothelial growth factors.
This speeds recovery because the tendons and ligaments are now receiving nutrients more efficiently. Other than refraining from strenuous activity for a while, the patient need not be concerned about extended recovery because the growth factors in the PRP are speeding up the overall healing process.
Injuries that can be treated by PRP injections include but are not limited to:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Muscle tears
- ACL injuries
- Tennis elbow
- Osteoarthritis in certain areas
- Tendonitis
Learn More About PRP Injections
We can answer your questions regarding PRP treatment and the expected results. This treatment is becoming more and more popular. Learn how it can benefit you by contacting us and scheduling a consultation today! Phoenix Regenerative Medicine is conveniently located in Phoenix, AZ.
