Platelet Rich Plasma is a blood product containing concentrated levels of platelets and their growth factors. These components are thought to play a role in the body’s natural healing processes and may support tissue repair and regeneration.
The platelet rich plasma injection is created from ones’ own blood.
The blood goes through a proprietary process to separate the platelets into a concentrated plasma – Platelet Rich Plasma.
These platelets are used for PRP injections.
A healthcare clinician draws a small blood sample and places it in a centrifuge.
The centrifuge separates the PRP from the rest of the blood.
The platelets are collected and concentrated to anywhere from 2 to 8 times their normal number.
The platelets are then mixed into a blood plasma liquid base and injected directly into an area of the body. Ultrasound imaging is sometimes used to guide the injection.
The entire process often takes less than 1 hour.
PRP is classified as an experimental regenerative injection therapy.
Research suggests PRP injections have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing and restore function.
Unlike medications, PRP is derived from your own blood and is not regulated by the FDA as a drug. Its effectiveness remains uncertain, and researchers are still working to understand why it may help some people but not others.
The potential benefits of the therapy can include:
F.A.Q
Do the injections hurt?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections cause temporary, manageable discomfort during the procedure and an increase in soreness afterward as the body triggers a natural healing response.
Do PRP injections have side effects or risks?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is generally considered safe because it uses the patient’s own blood, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or infections. However, there are some potential side effects and risks, including:
What is the difference between PRP and stem cell therapy?
Process
A medical professional draws a small sample of blood from the arm, similar to a standard lab test. The sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins it rapidly to separate the blood components and concentrate the platelets in the plasma. It is then injected into the site of pathology.
Duration
The entire procedure takes about 1 hour including time for the blood draw and processing. The injections themselves take about 5 minutes.
Sensation
A local anaesthetic cream is often applied. The injection is said to feel like a pinching or sensation of pressure.
Downtime
There is no material downtime or recovery period. Patents can return to normal activity the following day. Full results can typically occur after several weeks of treatment.
Side Effects
There are no known side effects or complications from the treatment, other than what may occur with any routine injection.
