A Cutting-Edge, Less Invasive Option in Orthopedics
Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, has become a popular regenerative procedure in orthopedics, offering a minimally invasive approach to healing damaged tissues. Derived from your own blood, PRP contains a concentrated dose of platelets, which are rich in growth factors and proteins essential for tissue repair and regeneration. This concentrated solution is then injected into the injured area, stimulating the body’s natural repair process.
Unlike traditional treatments that merely mask symptoms, PRP aims to address the root cause of orthopedic pain and promote long-term recovery. This makes PRP an appealing option for individuals seeking alternatives to surgery or those looking to enhance post-surgical healing.
What is the Process of a PRP Procedure?
The process of a PRP orthopedic procedure is relatively straightforward. When doing a PRP procedure at Regenexx at New Regeneration Orthopedics of Florida (NROFL). We first take a small amount of blood, 20-30 tubes from the patient, which is similar to a routine blood test. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins the blood at high speeds to separate the platelets from other blood components. The resulting PRP is then manually extracted in our sterile hood system and prepared for injection.
Then, using ultrasound and/or live X-ray guidance, the NROFL physician precisely injects the PRP into the targeted area, such as a damaged tendon, ligament, or joint. The blood draw takes 15-20 minutes, the processing time of the blood productt can take a few hours and the procedure will typically last 30-45 minutes.
What Can I Expect After a PRP Procedure?
Following a PRP injection, patients can expect some discomfort or soreness at the injection site. This is a normal reaction and usually subsides within a 3-5 days. Your NROFL Physician typically prescribes pain relievers to manage any discomfort. It’s important to avoid strenuous activity for a brief period of time, as directed by your physician, to allow the PRP to work effectively.
After the initial inflammatory period passes, the NROFL physician will prescribe physical therapy with qualified PTs when applicable. While some patients experience immediate pain relief, the full benefits of a PRP procedure typically takes 3-4 months to become apparent. This is because the growth factors in PRP stimulate gradual tissue regeneration, which requires time.
What is an Advantage of Choosing PRP versus Traditional Orthopedic Options?
One of the key advantages of a PRP procedure is its safety profile. Since it utilizes the patient’s own blood, there is minimal risk of allergic reactions or adverse side effects. However, like any injection procedure, there is a small risk of infection or bleeding at the injection site. The long-term effects of a PRP procedure are still being studied, but many patients report significant and lasting pain relief, improved function, and enhanced healing. PRP is often used to help with conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries, and muscle tears.
Conditions that respond favorably to PRP procedures are, but not limited to:
- Ankle Sprains
- Disc Herniations
- Elbow Tendiopathy
- Gluteal Tendinopathy
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Neck Pain
- Morton’s Neuroma / Foot Pain
- Back Pain
- Hand and Wrist Pain
The Takeaway?
Ultimately, a PRP procedure offers a great option for individuals seeking a natural and effective approach to orthopedic issues. While it may not be suitable for everyone, consulting with a NROFL physician can help determine if PRP is the right procedure for your specific condition. By understanding the procedure and what to expect, patients can make informed decisions about their orthopedic care and take proactive steps towards a pain-free and active lifestyle. If you or someone you love is struggling with an orthopedic issue, give us a call so we can serve you in Tampa, Orlando, St. Petersburg, or Sarasota, Florida.
