PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

When we experience a tear, pull, strain, or sprain of a tendon or ligament, our body responds with increased blood flow to the injured area. This “new” blood has platelets and other growth factors that help the tissue heal by creating new collagen fibers that eventually allowing the injured area to regain its flexibility and strength. Depending on the after-care and the severity of the injury however, sometimes scar tissue forms, which further alters the blood flow so the tissue never really properly heals.

Stem cells are cells with the ability to divide many times and can differentiate into all types of cells for regeneration. A person’s own blood, fat and bone marrow contains stem cells and additional biological materials necessary to facilitate healing, but minimal blood flow prevents joints, ligament and tendons from healing as well as muscle, skin, or bone. A goal of regenerative medicine is to quickly deliver massive numbers of fresh stem cells, platelet-rich plasma and growth factor proteins to tissues that are damaged to repair and grow new cells. Additionally, these procedures are low risk, outpatient, and partly covered by insurance.

Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) is a relatively new and revolutionary method of treatment that evolved along with stem cell research. This process uses your own red blood cells and blood plasma to enhance soft tissue repair, and is particularly useful for repairing tendons and treating osteoarthritis. Your blood is spun in a centrifuge that concentrates your platelets and growth factors, and is then injected into your injured area. As simple as cortisone shots, which merely provide anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain, PRP actively adds regenerative cells to promote healing, even in long-damaged tissues, easing painful inflammation and stiffness.

Another advantage of PRP therapy is that it is a natural and cost-effective alternative to surgery. Because the injected substance is from your own body, there is very little chance of rejection or allergic reaction. Your own body helping your body to heal!

Dr. Thomas Grace has extensive experience with using regenerative medicine for musculoskeletal injuries and arthritis. All procedures offered are FDA-compliant under the current definition of minimal manipulation, and are based on the latest peer-reviewed evidence for both safety and efficacy.