Hydration:
PRP therapy works better if you stay well hydrated 24 hours beforehand
Avoid NSAIDs for 2 weeks:
These medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and celecoxib affect platelets and can prevent the growth factors in PRP from working properly, which could make the injection ineffective.
Avoid blood thinners 48 hours before the procedure:
These medications are important but can increase bleeding after the injection, Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Plavix, and Pradaxa.
Blood Sample Collection:
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to a routine blood test. This sample is crucial for the subsequent steps.
Centrifugation:
The collected blood is placed in a specialised machine called a centrifuge. This device spins the blood at high speeds to separate and extract the platelet-rich plasma. The process allows for the concentration of growth factors, which are essential for promoting healing.
Injection:
The concentrated ACP (Autologous Conditioned Plasma) is then injected back into the affected knee or hip joint or surrounding tendons. This targeted approach ensures that the healing properties of the platelets are delivered directly to the site of injury.
Treatment Schedule:
Typically, the treatment is administered in a series of three injections, each spaced two to three weeks apart. This protocol maximises the therapeutic benefits and allows for optimal healing.
Since PRP treatment is derived from the patient’s own blood, it carries a very low risk of adverse side effects or allergic reactions. Patients often find the process straightforward and well-tolerated, leading to significant improvements in their condition.
How PRP Therapy Works
The healing of injured or inflamed tissue involves a complex and precisely regulated series of natural processes within the body. Key players in this process are thrombocytes, or platelets, which release growth factors at the site of injury. These growth factors and cytokines initiate the restoration of damaged tissue and inhibit painful inflammatory processes.
PRP therapy is rooted in our understanding of these biological processes. With its high concentration of growth factors, PRP injections act as a natural method of supporting the body’s self-healing capabilities. The rich plasma injections promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and enhance the healing process, making it a valuable option for patients experiencing conditions such as:
Knee and Hip Osteoarthritis:
PRP therapy can alleviate the symptoms of knee and hip osteoarthritis, helping to manage pain and improve joint function.
Tendon Injuries:
Conditions like tendonitis or tendonopathy can benefit from the regenerative properties of PRP, which supports healing and recovery.
Muscle injuries:
PRP can help enhance repair of muscle tissue damaged during sporting activity or overtraining.
Meniscus and cartilage knee surgery:
More and more, PRP is being used to successfully increase the chances for important damaged tissues to heal during reparative surgical procedure by providing a favourable biological environment.
The Role of PRP in Osteoarthritis Management
Knee osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The degeneration of cartilage in the knee joint leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. PRP therapy offers a promising approach to managing osteoarthritis symptoms by addressing inflammation and promoting cartilage repair.
Many studies have shown that patients receiving PRP knee injections report significant improvements in pain relief and joint function compared to those receiving standard treatments. This regenerative approach aligns with current recommendations for managing osteoarthritis, providing a viable alternative to traditional pain management options, including anti-inflammatory medications.
PRP and Regenerative Medicine
As part of the broader field of regenerative medicine, PRP therapy exemplifies a shift towards innovative, patient-centred approaches to healing. The focus on using the body’s own biological materials for repair reflects a growing understanding of the body’s natural healing processes.
The benefits of PRP therapy extend beyond mere symptom relief; it addresses the underlying issues contributing to joint pain and dysfunction. By harnessing the power of rich plasma and its growth factors, patients can experience a more comprehensive healing journey.