Can Platelet-Rich Plasma Treat Musculoskeletal Disorders?

Patients suffering from chronic Musculoskeletal Disorders oftentimes find themselves at their wits-end when repeated conventional therapies fail to yield positive results. When countless injections, medications, and physical therapeutic methods fail, you may start to lose hope that the pain will ever go away. If the above situation is similar to something you have experienced, you may be an excellent candidate to receive platelet-rich plasma therapy.

What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma?

Although a seemingly new treatment, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has been studied and effectively used for approximately 20 years. With media popularization, the usage of PRP has emerged from the shadows after reported success in many American athletes. Take for example, Kobe Bryant, who is among one of the many high-level athletes who has utilized PRP to minimize inflammation and faster promote healing. As a minimally invasive, low-risk treatment option, PRP Therapy is becoming purportedly popular in treating both chronic and acute musculoskeletal disorders, including:

– Tendonitis

– Ligament strains

– Muscle strains

– Osteoarthritis

– Intervertebral discs

How Is Platelet-Rich Plasma Created?

PRP is created by taking a small sample of the patient’s own blood. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient and then it is placed into a centrifuge where it is separated into three layers, and a concentrated sample of PRP is collected. After centrifugation is completed, the PRP is placed into a syringe and prepared for administration.

How Does Platelet-Rich Plasma Work?

After preparation is complete, the patient’s PRP serum is injected directly into the specific area of complaint. The injected PRP contains a high-concentration of growth factors and cytokines that are essential for wound repair. By introducing PRP serum into sites of musculoskeletal pain, the healing process is stimulated and works at a faster pace.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Platelet-Rich-Plasma?

Because PRP is derived completely from the patient’s own whole blood, there is little known risk for infection, progressive tissue atrophy, or rupture of tendons, which is often seen with corticosteroid injections.

Learn More About Platelet-Rich Plasma at The Medical Center of Body Rejuvenation

If you are considering PRP therapy, or would like more information about treatment, the team at The Medical Center of Body Rejuvenation is here to help you. We offer an extensive list of services, including platelet-rich plasma treatments for musculoskeletal disorders and more. We would be happy to answer any questions you have on the phone and or schedule a consultation with Dr. Nestor to learn if PRP therapy is right for you.