Platelet-rich plasma injections are becoming more widely known for their success in helping to heal injuries and manage arthritis pain. The board-certified physicians offer platelet-rich plasma injections as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients managing chronic pain or healing after surgery.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a component of your blood that contains a high concentration of proteins. The plasma in your blood contains platelets that help your blood clot and promote cell growth, so it aids in the healing process. In PRP therapy, you “donate” your blood, which is processed in a centrifuge machine to separate out the plasma.
Platelet-rich plasma injections are typically used to help promote healing in injured joints, or to treat arthritic joints. Your doctor injects the plasma into your affected joints so they can potentially grow new tissue and help you get relief from pain.
What is the Procedure for PRP Injections?
First, one of the skilled providers draws blood from you. Then, your blood is processed to prepare it for your injections. Once the plasma has been separated from your blood, your doctor injects it into the affected joint. You may receive one injection or a series of them over the course of several weeks, depending on your condition.
Since PRP injections require precision to guide the injection directly into your joint capsule, your doctor may use imaging technology or ultrasound for guidance.
Who is a Good Candidate for PRP Injections?
If you suffer from osteoarthritis (a form of disease that often affects your knees), PRP injections may help reduce pain and regenerate new tissue. PRP injections may also benefit acute injuries, including pulled hamstrings or knee sprains. And, if you experience chronic tendon conditions like tennis elbow or tendonitis, platelet-rich plasma may help relieve that discomfort as well.
In some situations, your doctor may recommend platelet-rich plasma injections as part of your post-surgical repair for a torn tendon or ligament. PRP therapy can also promote healing of your rotator cuff in your shoulder or ligaments in your legs so you can get back to living your life without pain.
As with every treatment that the pain management specialists provide, the goal of PRP injections is to relieve your pain, and help you "Restore Function & Relive Life".
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in Richmond Hill – Queens, and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Queens office at (718) 215-1888 or (516) 419-4480 for the Long Island office to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialist, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko.
