Description

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment option for chronic pain in ligaments, tendons, and osteoarthritis, where a concentration of a patient's own platelets is injected into the affected area to stimulate healing and potentially reduce pain by promoting tissue regeneration through the release of growth factors within the platelets; this is considered a non-surgical approach to managing these conditions, although research is still ongoing to fully understand its efficacy in all cases. How PRP works: Blood extraction: A sample of the patient's blood is drawn. Centrifugation: The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components, concentrating the platelet-rich plasma. Injection: The concentrated platelet-rich plasma is then injected directly into the affected area, like a joint or tendon, using ultrasound guidance for precision. Potential benefits of PRP therapy for chronic pain: Pain reduction: PRP may help alleviate pain associated with ligament sprains, tendinitis, and osteoarthritis by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Improved function: By stimulating healing, PRP may improve joint mobility and function in patients with osteoarthritis. Non-surgical option: PRP is considered a minimally invasive procedure, offering an alternative to surgery for some patients. Conditions where PRP may be considered: Ligament injuries: Ankle sprains, knee ligament tears Tendonitis: Rotator cuff tendinitis, Achilles tendinitis Osteoarthritis: Knee osteoarthritis, hip osteoarthritis Muscle injuries: Chronic muscle strains