Platelet rich plasma, commonly referred to as “PRP’, is a non-operative, permanent solution for conditions such as arthritis and ligament/tendon sprains and tears. Utilizing the body’s natural healing process, PRP therapy is a concentration of platelets that are injected into the damaged ligaments, tendons, and joints to promote tissue repair and accelerate healing. Platelets are rich in growth and healing factors which means, on average, an injured individual can get back to a pain-free life in four to six weeks.
Condition helped by PRP
Platelet rich plasma injections are most effective for the following conditions:
- Lumbar spine disk pain
- Rotator cuff injuries, including partial-thickness
- Shoulder pain and instability
- Tennis and golfer’s elbow
- Hamstring and hip strains
- Knee sprains and instability
- Patellofemoral syndrome and patellar tendonitis
- Ankle sprains
- Achilles tendonitis & plantar fasciitis
- Knee, hip, and other joint osteoarthritis
- Nerve entrapment syndromes, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Sacroiliac(SI) joint dysfunction and pain
- Lumbar and cervical facet dysfunction and pain
HOW IS PRP CREATED?
Creation of PRP is simple, painless, and conveniently done at an office visit. The entire process of drawing blood to solution preparation only takes approximately 25-30 minutes. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient, just like a routine blood test.
Once the blood is drawn it is then placed into a centrifuge. The centrifuge is a machine that spins the blood at high speeds in order to separate the blood into red blood cells and concentrated platelets.
Once the blood is separated the red blood cells are discarded, and we are left with concentrated platelet rich plasma (PRP) which is ready to be used in the treatment process.
If you think you may benefit from Platelet Rich Plasma treatment, give us a call at (309)837-2000
0-3 Days Post PRP:
• It is highly recommended that the patient rest the day of the procedure. The next two days the patient should focus on keeping the affected joint(s) immobilized.
• We strongly encourage you to use connective tissue support vitamins and/or cream. It is imperative that you take this as directed by the doctor; it will enhance the healing process.
• Ice can be applied to the area of injection for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day, for the first 48 hours.
• Mild to moderate post-procedure pain can happen. Significant post procedure pain will typically resolve during the first few days after the procedure. If you are experiencing post procedure pain, you can take Tylenol as needed. If necessary, pain medication will be prescribed during your visit.
• If antibiotics are prescribed, please take them as directed. They will only be prescribed if they are needed.
• DO NOT TAKE anti-inflammatory medications such as; Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, and Aspirin, for at least 2 weeks after your procedure.
• DO NOT TAKE blood thinners or any herbs, supplements or vitamins 3-4 days after your procedure.
• DO NOT TAKE corticosteroids for at least 2 weeks following your procedure.
• Do not take hot baths or go to saunas during the first few days following your procedure.
• Avoid showering for 24 hours following your procedure.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages for the first 7 days following your procedure.
• Avoid smoking. Smoking delays healing and can increase the risk of complications.
• Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily to help your heal properly. Water does not mean tea, coffee or soda.
3-14 Days Post PRP:
• At this point you should gradually start increasing your daily activities and increase your exercise. To maximize the effects of the procedure, proper exercise is necessary.
• If you are still experiencing pain, continue you can take Tylenol as needed.
• If prescribed antibiotics please continue to take them as directed. They will only be prescribed if they are needed.
• Continue to use the connective tissue support vitamins and/or cream to enhance healing.
• Continue to avoid alcohol for at least 7 days after your procedure.
• DO NOT TAKE corticosteroids for at least 2 weeks following your procedure.
• DO NOT TAKE anti-inflammatory medications such as; Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, and Aspirin, for at least 2 weeks after your procedure.
14 Days Post PRP:
• A follow up appointment must be schedule for 2 weeks (14 days) after your procedure. During the follow up the doctor will assess your healing and determine the next best course of action.
2-4 Weeks Post PRP:
• Continue to use the connective tissue support vitamins and/or cream to enhance healing.
• At this point after your procedure, we highly recommend starting physical therapy to aid you in the healing process and help your body fully heal the affected joint(s).
If you have any questions, you are welcome to call our office at 309-837-2000.