Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP Injections Explained

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Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP injections and its potential effectiveness have been the topic of many discussions in the treatment of several musculoskeletal injuries. 

Elite athletes in several fields of sports have received these injections for conditions like tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis just to name a few.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

Our blood contains small, solid components mainly red and white cells as well as platelets. These platelets contain proteins called growth factors which research studies have shown to be essential for injury healing.

After blood is drawn from the patient, it is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood cells. This is then prepared for injection to the injured site.

Several laboratory studies have shown that the increased concentration of grown factors in PRP injections can actually speed up the healing process of an injured tissue. 

In PRP treatment for tennis elbow, the area in the elbow where the extensor carpi radialis brevis starts can become inflamed and painful due to overuse. PRP and a local anesthetic can be injected to this area.

It has also been shown to speed up the healing process after surgical repairs of certain injuries like the Achilles tendon. A special preparation of PRP is attached to the tissue being repaired during surgery.

What conditions can be treated with Platelet Rich Plasma?

The effectiveness of Platelet Rich Plasma injections can vary depending on several factors like the area being treated, the overall health of the patient and whether the injury is acute or chronic. 

Research studies are currently being conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in the following injuries:

• Acute ligament injuries like sprains and tears.
• Acute muscle injuries like hamstring strains/ pulls.
• Chronic tendon injuries like tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis and jumpers’ knees.
• Surgery to repair the ligaments of the knee like the anterior cruciate ligament as well as rotator cuff repair surgery of the shoulder.
• Knee arthritis.

The Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute is the source for all of your orthopedic issues. Talk to your JOI provider if you have any questions regarding PRP injections. 

To schedule a physical therapy appointment at a JOI Rehab Center, please call 904-858-7045.

Fracture Care 

JOI in Jacksonville is Where The Pro’s Go for their care and so should you.  To make an appointment, click below or call 904-JOI-2000. 

By: Drew Heideman, MPT, ATC, PES