Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP has become very popular with chiropractors and other practitioners of alternative medicine. Many people assume that the term refers to a blood product drawn from the spleen. This assumption is wrong. PRP is not blood, but it is a highly concentrated solution of platelet rich plasma. This solution is injected into injured joints to promote healing.
When injured tendons and ligaments are cared for with this unique mixture of blood, the body’s natural defenses act to rebuild the tissue. This process of self-rejuvenation promotes growth and healing. The results of platelet rich plasma therapy can be very effective for injured joints. Some people experience improvements after only one platelet injection.
Stem cells are the building blocks of many of the organs in the body. When the immune system is healthy, the body can fight off infection and disease. As the body is healed, these same cells promote healing and recovery. Platelet Rich Plasma procedures use these cells to encourage healing in the body.
To make a positive platelet injection, the medical technician mixes a large quantity of donors’ blood. The platelets are then separated from the blood before being injected into the joint. First, a harmful control platelet concentrate is used to prevent the excessive production of platelets. Next, the blood is placed into a microcentrifuge machine to separate the platelets from the plasma.
The effects of this natural healing system are seen within days of receiving the injections. There is a noticeable improvement in any chronic joint or muscle pain. There is a noticeable increase in range of motion as well as strength when standing or walking. Patients that have undergone a platelet rich plasma procedure report an increase in energy and mental clarity.
Facial swelling and redness may occur from time to time with this treatment. This is common because of the increased platelet levels. The platelet level must be monitored frequently throughout the therapy to maintain adequate levels. Up to one pint of blood may be drawn at regular intervals for monitoring purposes. Keeping the white blood count at a high level will reduce the risks of infections.
Pain medications are not needed when undergoing a platelet rich plasma procedure. The risk for an allergic reaction is usually minimal when compared to other methods. However, if a muscle spasm or other uncomfortable symptom does occur, extra attention should be given. Pain medications are not typically needed after the initial injection. One should attempt to get over the awkward sensation as quickly as possible. Pain medications should only be administered on an outpatient basis and never in a situation where the needle is exposed to the face.
There are many benefits to this type of therapy. The increased platelet levels in the treated area promote a natural healing response. In addition, there are few adverse side effects. Some patients report slight bruising, dehydration, and facial swelling, but these are usually temporary and do not prevent the platelets from being injected into the affected area.
A benefit of platelet-rich plasma therapy is that it does not cause significant fluid loss. There is some loss of plasma and hemoglobin during the procedure. The amount lost is typically less than a quart of normal saline. This reduces the need for additional oral dialysis or other treatment options for greater trochanteric pain syndrome.
An essential benefit of platelet rich plasma procedure is that it can repair tissue damage and reduce pain. Some of the potential problems from this procedure include soft tissue injury, the delayed healing process, infection, and nerve damage. In addition, when a patient has a previous spinal injury or osteoporotic disease, the injection may increase the risk of complications. However, there is a decreased chance of mortality when compared to other procedures. In addition, recovery time is faster, and the patient experiences less pain and discomfort.
For those who have kidney failure, a platelet prosperous plasma procedure may be indicated. A study published by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists showed that it is highly effective in reducing pain and other symptoms when injected into the affected areas. The procedure takes approximately ninety-five seconds, and there is a one-hour downtime after the procedure. Patients who have had prior treatments at their health care provider’s office or the cardiologist’s office may experience mild dehydration. This is easily corrected by drinking plenty of liquids.
There are many reasons to consider platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy if you have had previous surgeries. However, it is essential to note that there is a significant risk of bleeding and infections when using anesthesia on an ongoing basis. Therefore, it is highly recommended that any individual undergoing a PRP injection undergoes at least one additional PRP injection. This should be done no more than once per year to reduce the risk of serious complications. The FDA approved this procedure and should be considered an alternative to IV fluids when necessary.
