What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP is blood plasma with concentrated platelets.  The concentrated platelets found in PRP include growth factors that are vital to initiate and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration.  These bioactive proteins initiate connective tissue healing and repair, promote development of new blood vessels, and help stimulate the wound healing process. 

What are Tendons & Ligaments?

Tendons connect the muscle to the bone making it possible for you to do many everyday physical activities.  Overuse or damage to the tendon over a long period of time causes the collagen fibers in the tendons to form small tears, a condition called tendinosis.  Damage to tendons most often occurs in the knees, ankles, hips, spine, elbows, shoulders, and wrists.

Ligaments are composed of collagen fibers that hold one bone to another, stabilizing the joint and controlling the range of motion.  When a ligament is damaged, it is no longer able to support the bones in the joint, which often leads to pain symptoms. Most times, the instability which causes the pain in your joints does not show up on  high tech imaging equipment.  However, can be diagnosed by a well-trained physician using a hands-on approach.

Tendons and ligaments have a poor blood supply.  Combined with the stress of day-to-day activities, they do not usually heal from damage.  As a result, the tendons and ligaments become inefficient causing degeneration of the joint which leads to chronic pain and weakness.  Many patients who experience chronic pain do not remember ever injuring themselves.

How does PRP work?

To prepare PRP, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient.  The blood is then placed in a centrifuge.  The centrifuge spins and separates the platelet rich plasma.  This increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors up to 500 percent, which increases the healing capabilities of the damaged or weakened connective tissue that is being treated. 

When PRP is injected into the damaged area, it stimulates the tendon or the ligament causing mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade.  As the collagen matures, it begins to strengthen the tendons or ligaments of the damaged area. 

What can be treated?

PRP injections can be performed on tendons and ligaments all over the body.  Sports injuries, arthritic joints, low back, degenerative disc disease, shoulder pain, hip pain, and knee pain can all be treated effectively with PRP.  Dr. Douglas will determine if either prolotherapy or platelet rich plasma are right for you during her initial evaluation.