PRP or Platelet-rich plasma is when doctors inject highly concentrated plasma into an injury to promote healing. The treatment has gained interest in recent years after athletes such as Tiger Woods noted the benefits after receiving prp injections.
What is Plasma?
Plasma is a substance in the blood that contains special proteins that promote clotting and cell growth. Platelet-rich plasma is produced by isolating plasma from the blood and concentrating it into an injectable form.
But how do PRP injections promote healing? It’s thought that injecting it into damaged tissue will stimulate the body to grow healthy cells, healing the injury.
PRP treatment in Miami and Homestead – What can this procedure treat?
There are several conditions doctors treat with PRP injections in Miami and Homestead, such as the following:
Tissue Healing
Doctors use PRP treatments to heal soft tissue injuries. For example, it has proven to be very successful in treating tendon and ligament damage. For this reason, it is common for patients to have PRP injections for knee injuries.
Inflammation
Inflammation can cause pain and stiffness in the joints. PRP treatment, including PRP in Miami & Homestead, has become a choice option for patients with arthritis.
Post-surgery
Doctors have used PRP injections on patients after surgery. It is commonly used for surgical repairs of tendons and ligaments.
What is the procedure for PRP treatments?
Doctors can use a topical anesthetic, or a local anesthetic is mixed with the injection to reduce pain. PRP treatments can also be administered during surgery. Typically the procedure is simple:
- Staff draws a small sample of blood
- The blood is spun in a centrifuge (takes about 15 minutes)
- A technologist separates the plasma and prepares the injection
- Doctors inject PRP using the guidance of ultrasound to assist in injecting the affected area
Are there side effects with PRP treatments in Miami & Homestead?
Because doctors inject the patient’s plasma, side effects are unlikely. However, if you do experience any side effects, they are typically minor. Sometimes you may have a small amount of pain, bleeding, or irritation at the injection site.
How long does a PRP treatment take?
PRP injections do not take very long. Usually, doctors can do it in about a half-hour from blood draw to injection. Patients can go home and engage in usual activities right after the treatment.
When will I notice a difference after I have a PRP injection
PRP treatments are intended to promote healing, so you might not notice a difference right away. You will see improvement in the area treated after a few weeks.
Where can I find out more about PRP injections at South Florida Orthopaedics?
PRP treatments in Miami & Homestead are becoming popular because of their success. Providers at South Florida International Orthopaedics can talk to you more about the therapy’s risks and benefits.
If you would like more information about orthopedic regenerative medicine in Miami, contact us or schedule an online appointment.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
