Platelet-rich plasma therapy is an advanced noninvasive treatment that has become very popular among high-level athletes and sportsmen in recent years helping many individuals recover rapidly from orthopedic injuries and get back to their game with minimal downtime.
The beneficial effects of PRP have been documented in several studies for the treatment of a wide range of sports injures such as runner’s knee, jumper’s knee, plantar fasciitis, early-stage osteoarthritis, hip & hamstring strains, and other types of chronic musculoskeletal injuries.
PRP is obtained by drawing a small quantity of your own blood and processing it in a special centrifuge machine. It is then injected directly into the site of injury (usually under ultrasound guidance to maximize accuracy and effectiveness) where it releases substances called growth factors that stimulate repair and regeneration tissue. The entire procedure can be completed in a single visit.
Advantages of platelet-rich plasma therapy:
- PRP is a very simple and short procedure that can be performed in the physician’s office or outpatient
- There is hardly any risk of allergic reaction or side effects from the procedure as the PRP is derived from your own
- Since PRP therapy enhances the body’s capacity to heal itself, the effect of treatment typically will last longer than steroid injections, pain medications, or cortisone injections.
- You may experience a bit of soreness at the injection site and your doctor may recommend resting the area for a couple of days, but most patients are able to return to routine activities within a day or
The effect of PRP therapy is not instantaneous and it may take a couple of weeks for complete healing of chronic muscle, ligament, tendon, or cartilage injuries. However, the enhanced healing will give you greater confidence as you return to the sporting arena or the activities that bring you joy.
Dr. Frisch is a specialist orthopedic surgeon focusing on minimally invasive hip and knee joint replacement as well as regenerative treatments for enhanced healing. He believes in creating a very personalized experience with the highest level of service. For all appointments & inquiries, please contact our offices located in Rochester, River District, and Tawas City, MI.
