What is PRP?

Commonly asked questions:

What is PRP?

• A non-surgical option to help promote healing and to relieve pain. PRP injections help promote healing from damaged tendons, cartilage, muscles, and joint pain from osteoarthritis.
• The body’s natural response when an individual experiences an injury is to send platelets to the damaged area. Platelets contain growth factors that promote healing and trigger the body’s repair process as well as enlist the help of your stem cells to relieve pain & heal the injury.

What is PRP used for?

• Inflammation
• Infections
• Post-surgical healing
• Musculoskeletal injuries
• Tennis or golfer’s elbow
• Carpal tunnel
• Rotator cuff tears
• Frozen shoulder
• Osteoarthritis
• Knee injuries (ACL, MCL tears)
• Joint degeneration

Are there any side effects with PRP injections?

• Mild soreness, bruising at the injection site
• Because PRP comes from your own body, there is no risk for allergic reaction or transmission of infection

How are PRP injections administered?

• A small sample of your own blood is drawn in the office.
• The blood is then placed in a machine called a centrifuge that separates the platelets from the other components of your blood.
• The doctor injects the platelet portion of the blood into the injured part of the body using ultrasound technology in order to ensure the PRP goes to the area that it will provide the most relief.

Is there any down time with PRP injections?

• There is a short recovery period with PRP injections. Some patients experience mild pain and soreness after the injection.
• Individuals may resume daily activity after a few days but it is recommended you avoid any intense physical activity for at least 4-6 weeks after the procedure.
• Physical therapy is recommended after the injection in order to maximize healing.