What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
Platelet-rich plasma is a concentration of your own blood platelets. A sample of your blood is collected and centrifuged to separate the plasma layer from the white blood cells and red blood cells. This platelet rich plasma or PRP contains a high concentration of platelets which in turn contain high levels of growth factors important in healing. Platelets play a critical role in the body’s natural healing mechanisms and injection of PRP into an injured joint, muscle, tendon, or ligament has shown promise in healing tissues faster and more effectively. The PRP is thought to ignite the body’s own healing response. The PRP can have an anti-inflammatory effect so some patients report pain relief in addition to rapid healing.
What Conditions can be treated with PRP?
- Joint Sprains
- Muscle Strains
- Achilles tendonitis or other form of tendonitis
- Early degenerative joint disease (arthritis)
- Partial ligament tears
- Plantar Fasciitis
PRP Procedure
First, a blood draw is performed and the blood is spun in a special syringe in a centrifuge to separate out the PRP. The area to be injected is sterilized and sprayed with a topical anesthetic. The PRP (typically 2-4cc) is injected into the area of concern. The injection is initially accompanied by some discomfort, but the effect of the PRP begins to take effect over the course of 2-6 weeks.
Dr. Gamradt uses Arthrex Autologous Conditioned Plasma (ACP). This form of PRP is widely used in the NFL. It works well as it is low volume and has an excellent anti-inflammatory effect. The PRP is sometimes injected in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory (toradol) especially when treating arthritis.
