Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection

During a Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection, your own blood cells are drawn and centrifuged to extract platelet rich plasma, which is a concentrated source of healing factors. This is then injected directly back into the affected area to improve healing and reduce pain.

How does a PRP Injection work?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample and place it in a centrifuge from which the PRP is extracted. The entire process takes less than 15 minutes and increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors by up to 500%.

When PRP is injected into a damaged area it triggers a healing cascade. New collagen begins to develop which eventually causes tightening and strengthening of the tendons and ligaments to help with injuries such as knee sprains, pulled hamstring muscles, a torn tendon, and other painful tendon, ligament and muscle injuries.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

PRP is blood plasma with concentrated platelets that contain huge reservoirs of bioactive proteins, including growth factors that initiate and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration. These proteins initiate connective tissue healing: bone, tendon and ligament regeneration and repair, promote development of new blood vessels, and stimulate the wound healing process.

What are the potential benefits of PRP injections?

In addition to returning to normal function, patients can see a significant improvement in symptoms, which could eliminate the need for more aggressive treatments such as long term medication or surgery.

What can be treated with PRP injections?

Platelet rich plasma injections can be performed in tendons and ligaments all over the body. Various conditions that can be treated include:

• Acute sports Injuries
• Rotator Cuff Tears
• Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow
• Jumper’s Knee
• Arthritic Joints
• Lumbar Disk Tears
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Plantar Fasciitis

Are PRP injections right for me?

If you have a tendon or ligament injury and traditional methods have not provided relief, then a PRP injection might be a solution. The procedure is less aggressive than surgery, will heal tissue with minimal or no scarring and alleviates further degeneration of tissue. An initial evaluation with your doctor is required to see if PRP therapy is right for you.

How many PRP treatments are necessary & how often is platelet rich plasma therapy administered?

Responses to PRP treatment vary based on the underlying condition. Most people require 1 or 2 injections. Each set of treatments is spaced at least 8 weeks apart. There is no limit to the number of treatments you can have and the risks and side effects do not change with the number of injections. Physiotherapy is strongly recommended after or between treatments to maximize benefits.

How soon can I go back to regular physical activities?

PRP injections help regenerate tendons and ligaments but it is not a quick fix. This therapy stimulates the growth and repair of tendons and ligaments, such as the patellar tendon or anterior cruciate ligament, and requires time and rehabilitation. Through regular visits, your doctor will determine when you are able to resume regular physical activities.

PRP injections vs. Cortisone injections

Studies have shown that cortisone injections can weaken tissue, and while cortisone shots may provide temporary pain relief and are effective in reducing inflammation, they do not support cell growth or provide long term healing. PRP therapy heals and tendons and ligaments, in some cases thickening and improving tissue strength up to 40%.