Posted on November 13, 2010 by summit
Summit Orthopedic Specialists is one of the only facilities in the region to offer platelet rich plasma therapy. PRP therapy is a non-surgical technique that harnesses your body’s natural healing ability to repair stubborn muscle and tendon injuries. This innovative treatment can reduce or even eliminate pain and get you back to your pre-injury activities in a matter of weeks without long-term medication or surgery.
PRP is most effective in treating chronic muscle injuries that have not responded to traditional treatments such as icing, anti-inflammatory medications, massage and physical therapy. Examples include:
What is PRP Therapy?
When an injury occurs, our body responds by immediately sending platelets and growth factors to the injury site which stimulates repair and regeneration of the damaged tissue. PRP concentrates those valuable platelets from your blood which can then be inserted directly to the injured areas to supercharge your body’s natural healing ability.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
Before treatment, your physician will evaluate your injury and examine the area using diagnostic ultrasound to determine whether PRP treatment is right for you. If you are a candidate for PRP, we recommend that you avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication or aspirin for at least one week prior to your treatment.
PRP is an office-based procedure without the risks of surgery or anesthesia and generally takes about 30 minutes. The treatment starts with a standard blood draw. The platelet rich plasma is then separated and concentrated by a special centrifuge. You are given a local anesthesia to minimize discomfort and the physician uses ultrasound to guide the injection of PRP directly into the injured area.
Everyone responds differently depending upon the nature and severity of the injury, but many individuals begin to feel relief within two to three weeks and a majority of patients require just one or two treatments. Following your PRP treatment, you will likely start a physical therapy program. Your physician will work with your therapist to determine when you can resume regular physical activity.
For more information on platelet rich plasma therapy or to schedule an appointment, call Summit Orthopedic Specialists at (916) 965-4000.
6620 Coyle Avenue, Ste 303, Carmichael, CA 95608
In-office arthroscopy. Robotic-assisted surgeries. Versatile non-surgical alternatives. At Summit Orthopedic Specialists, we offer our patients in Sacramento orthopedic surgery and solutions at the leading edge of the industry. Learn how peak care leads to peak performance with a consultation today.
