What is PRP?

PRP, or Platelet-Rich Plasma, is an innovative treatment that alleviates pain by harnessing your body’s natural ability to regenerate healthy tissue, which replaces damaged or diseased tissue. PRP is derived from a sample of your own blood and contains a highly concentrated mix of platelets and growth factors that naturally occur in your blood, facilitating the healing process when injected into the affected area.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for PRP Treatment?

The eligibility for PRP treatment is determined by your specialist at Alleviate Institute of Spine and Pain following a comprehensive assessment. This therapy is offered to address pain stemming from conditions such as:

  • Arthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Tendinitis
  • Ligament injuries
  • Facet arthropathy

PRP treatment is considered safe due to its use of your own blood, and it presents few contraindications.

What Can I Expect During PRP Treatment?

Typically, PRP treatment at Alleviate Institute of Spine and Pain takes about an hour to complete. Initially, your specialist collects a blood sample from your arm, which is then processed in a centrifuge to create the PRP.

To minimize discomfort during the PRP injections, your specialist administers a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. In some cases, intravenous anesthetics may be employed if necessary.

Next, your specialist positions you for the injection, with the procedure performed under direct visualization using fluoroscopy and/or ultrasound, depending on the injection site.

The PRP is then injected deep into the affected tissue. Following the procedure, you spend a brief period, typically 10-30 minutes, in a recovery area. It’s common for the treated area to remain numb for up to an hour.

After the PRP treatment, you may experience temporary increased pain and swelling at the injection site. Improvement in pain and function usually becomes noticeable within four weeks post-injection, with continued enhancements over the subsequent six months.

Do I Require Multiple PRP Treatments for Optimal Results?

To achieve the maximum benefits, you may need multiple injections. The determination of the number of treatments required is made by your specialist at Alleviate Institute of Spine and Pain after your consultation. Typically, individuals receive 1-3 injections spaced at intervals of 4-6 weeks.

While PRP isn’t a quick fix, it aids in the restoration of damaged tissue, providing long-term relief from pain. To gain a deeper understanding of PRP treatment and its potential benefits for you, please contact our office today or request an appointment online.