Platelet Rich Plasma
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injection is an advanced and evidence-based treatment option. PRP is prepared from the patient’s own blood which contains high number of proteins (growth factors) which ultimately promotes fast healing of injured ligaments and tendons. PRP helps in speeding up the healing process. Usually, only one injection is required and is an OPD procedure.
You may have heard about athletes taking platelets rich plasma injections for the speedy recovery of their injuries. These injections are also used to heal wounds after surgery. Some doctors use it as a cosmetic procedure to stop ageing effects such as wrinkles.
Platelets play a major role in our body and are the major clotting tool in our blood. The more platelets the body has more quickly the wounds heal. Platelets play a major role in repairing tissues and regeneration.
Another major part of the PRP injection is plasma. Plasma is a liquid part of our body which is mostly made up of water, salts and protein. It is also the largest part of your blood and more than half (55%) of the blood content is made up of plasma.
To collect PRP, the doctor draws the blood from your body and uses the machine to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the blood. PRP is a light-yellow liquid when separated from the rest of the blood. The doctor then numbs the area of your body to be treated with PRP injection and finally, he uses the needle to inject PRP into your injured area. Once the platelets reach the injured area, they break down and release growth factors which help your cells to repair and renew.
Platelet rich plasma injections are widely used to treat various wounds and injuries. PRP injections are commonly used to treat torn ligaments and tendons, muscle injuries tendinitis and joint injuries.
PRP injections have been used for Plantar fasciitis, Tennis elbow, Knee osteoarthritis, Achilles Tendinopathy, Supraspinatus tears, Discogenic low back pain, Sports related muscle tears, Meniscus injury in knee joint. There are evolving and many more applications of PRP injections.
Studies have shown that PRP injections are effective in speeding up your healing process after surgery. PRP works best for torn or inflamed ligaments and tendons and that’s why many athletes today use PRP injections for their speedy recovery. Some studies have also shown PRP injections are helpful in boosting mobility for people who suffer from rotator cuff injuries.
PRP injections do not cause any side effects as they are fully intended to help the healing and growth of your injured body parts. You will not notice any sudden difference in your body after receiving injections but in several weeks or months, you will observe the changes and the recovery of your injuries. Therefore, PRP is a promising therapy for those who experience tendinopathy, joint pains, and muscle tears.
