Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy stands at the forefront of innovative medical interventions, offering athletes and individuals alike a groundbreaking approach to healing and recovery. But what exactly is PRP therapy, and how can it benefit you?

If you would like to know how PRP therapy can help you during recovery, schedule your consultation with Brotzman Sports Medicine in Austin, Texas. Our experienced team is committed to providing personalized care and innovative solutions tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today and embark on the journey to enhanced healing and optimal performance.

S. Brent Brotzman, MD

Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Specialist located in Austin, TX

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What is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from a person’s blood. Platelets are a type of blood cell found in the blood that plays a role in blood clotting. These platelets are concentrated and prepared as a platelet-rich plasma injection.

The injection is then administered into an injured or diseased part of the body to accelerate the healing process. Plasma-rich plasma injections are used to treat various body tissue types, such as muscles, bones, ligaments, and joints.

PRP injections are known to be able to reduce the use of opioids and anti-inflammatory medications. This is largely because PRP treatment optimizes the inflammatory response during the initial stage of healing.

How are PRP Injections Made?

PRP injections are made from one or more tubes of your blood. The blood is put in a centrifuge machine, which spins your blood. This process separates the blood into its main components: Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

The platelets are removed, making a concentrated solution that contains 2 to 8 times more than normal. The platelets are then mixed with blood plasma to make the PRP injection. The injection is sometimes administered into the affected area using ultrasound guidance.

How is Platelet-Rich Plasma Administered?

Platelet-rich plasma injections can be administered directly into the injured area. This may be the case when treating tendinitis. The condition causes the tendon to become painful, inflamed, and swollen. PRP is mixed with a local anesthetic and injected directly into the tendon.

PRP injections may also be applied to injured tissues during surgery. If you require surgery on an injured tendon, your surgeon may prepare the PRP differently and stitch it into the torn tissues.

How Does PRP Therapy Work?

PRP has a high concentration of growth factors. It is thought that these growth factors are responsible for the faster healing times.

When is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy Used?

PRP therapy could theoretically be used for any kind of orthopedic injury. Some common applications include the following:

Tendon Injuries

PRP therapy is very effective in treating chronic tendon injuries. Common applications include the following:

  • Tennis Elbow: A repetitive strain injury on the tendons situated on the outer side of the elbow.
  • Achilles Tendinitis: Acute inflammation of the Achilles tendon due to repetitive use.
  • Patellar Tendon Inflammation (Jumper’s Knee): Inflammation of the tendon that attaches to the kneecap.

Soft Tissue Injuries

PRP injections can be applied to soft tissue injuries, such as ligament and muscle injuries. Many who participate in sports have benefited from PRP therapy in this way. Injuries such as hamstring strains and knee sprains are some examples of where this treatment has been used.

Knee Osteoarthritis

PRP therapy has proven to be very effective in managing low to moderate cases of knee osteoarthritis.

Surgery

PRP therapy can be used post-surgery. It is currently being used in rotator cuff repairs (shoulder surgery) and following knee ligament surgery and meniscus repair.

Risks and Side Effects of PRP Therapy

PRP injections are made from your blood, so you are not likely to have an adverse reaction to them. However, there is a slight risk of infection, as there is with any type of injection.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you ready to experience the transformative benefits of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy? Take the first step towards accelerated healing and enhanced recovery by scheduling your consultation with Brotzman Sports Medicine in Austin, TX.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or seeking to optimize your athletic performance, our expert team is here to provide personalized care and innovative solutions tailored to your specific needs. Don’t let injuries hold you back—contact us today and unlock your full potential with PRP therapy at Brotzman Sports Medicine.

TESTIMONIALS

Words from our patients