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The pace of medical research advancements in the 21st century is remarkable. The urgency of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic highlights the efficiency of the scientific community under pressure. However, this urgency also underscores the need for consistent funding and collaboration across sectors, especially in areas like PRP for Joints, where ongoing research can significantly impact healthcare outcomes.
We’re here to talk about a treatment process that has been under research for some years and that, as we shall see, is useful for many different medical problems. In particular, we want to look at it about joint and tendon issues. It’s called Platelet Rich Plasma – or PRP – and it is quite a fascinating process. Let’s first have a look at what PRP is.
What is PRP?
For some further information, we recommend this link – prp for joints Fort Lauderdale – which should tell you much more than we have space for. So, in brief, what is PRP?
Your blood consists of several elements. Platelets and Plasma are among them. These elements contain proteins that promote tissue growth. PRP, isolated plasma rich in platelets without red or white blood cells, is obtained using a method we’ll describe shortly.
This natural substance is obtained from the patient’s blood, so there is no danger of contamination of external substances. Let’s look at how PRP is obtained, how it works, and what to expect if you decide to undergo such a procedure.
How Does PRP Work?
Here’s another link at which you can see PRP explained in sensible terms. PRP aims to inject a substance into the targeted area, like a joint, to stimulate repair and growth. Here’s how it’s done: a skilled practitioner extracts blood using a syringe from an appropriate site.
The blood goes into a centrifuge for separation, isolating plasma with platelets from the rest. This plasma is then extracted and injected into the joint.
The only discomfort is from the small injection sensation, and the process is quick. It’s an outpatient process and one that may need several visits to keep up with the growth rate needed to deal with the pain or damage to the joint. Remember, it is entirely safe as it is your blood that is going back into your body. Now the big question: does PRP work for joints?
Does PRP Work for Joints?
When it comes to relieving joint pain there is every reason why a process that rejuvenates cell and tissue growth should help with regular joint pain and stiffness, damage to tendons, and other related issues. There are many reports of successful treatment by PRP for joint problems, and it is rapidly becoming more popular.
The major advantage of this natural process is its quick and painless execution without anesthesia. PRP has also been researched for use in other areas, which we’ll briefly cover.
What Can PRP Treat?
Many in medicine find PRP exciting, with ongoing research expected to address the following problems effectively:
- Hair loss. Doctors have injected PRP into the scalp to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.
- Tendon injuries. Tendons are tough, thick bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. They are usually slow to heal after injury. Doctors have used PRP injections to treat chronic tendon problems, such as tennis elbow and jumper’s knee, both commonly experienced by athletes.
- Acute injuries. Doctors have used PRP injections to treat acute sports injuries, such as pulled hamstring muscles or knee sprains.
- Postsurgical repair. Sometimes doctors use PRP injections after surgery to repair a torn tendon or ligament.
- PRP injections in the knee may help people with osteoarthritis.
Not all of these are FDA-approved for PRP treatment, but research shows high success rates with this minimally invasive procedure, offering the potential for various applications.
What Should I Expect with a PRP Procedure?
If you are to undergo a PRP procedure your consultant will explain everything in detail in your initial consultation. They’ll provide prep instructions, including possible local anesthesia and what to expect during the procedure.
The doctor will use ultrasound or imaging to inject the plasma directly into the targeted area for maximum effectiveness. When you talk to the consultant ensure that you tell them of any medical conditions you suffer from and medication you may be taking, as this information is important to them.
After the procedure, resting the treated joint may be advised, depending on the individual and the condition. Alternatively, you might be encouraged to begin light exercise to boost blood flow and tissue healing.
Is PRP Safe?
Although a relatively new procedure a vast amount of research has gone into PRP, and all the data says it is a thoroughly safe, tried, and tested procedure. Using only blood extracted from your body minimizes contamination risks and enhances safety. If you are concerned ask the consultant to explain any area of the process that you want to understand better, and they will be more than happy to put you at ease.