Platelets are tiny components of blood containing special proteins called "growth factors" that play an important role in the body's healing process. In PRP therapy, a sample of your blood is drawn and processed to concentrate platelets, then the concentrated blood is re-injected into your body to spur healing.
First, a small amount of your blood is drawn, just as it is when you undergo a blood test. The sample is placed in a special device that rapidly spins it to separate out the platelets and concentrate them. The resulting product – PRP – contains five times the normal number of platelets or more. Next, the PRP is re-injected into your body near the site of injury to help speed up the healing process and promote the generation of healthy bone and soft tissues.
PRP is used to treat a wide array of injuries, including:
golfer's or tennis elbow
tendinitis
muscle injuries
ligament injuries
damage due to osteoarthritis
joint injuries
PRP can also be used in some types of surgeries to help initiate early healing.
PRP works by sending “signals” directed at stimulating generation of new, healthy tissue at the site of injury. The precise mechanism of PRP is still being studied.
Yes, PRP injections are completely safe, and because they're made of your own blood, there's no risk of allergic reaction or other complications. The entire procedure – from drawing your sample to preparing the PRP to re-injecting it – is performed right on site in a single office visit.
If you don't see your insurance listed, don't worry! Please call or email as this list can change and we accept many insurances out of network.