PRP: The Details Matter. Give Us 3 Minutes
/More practices than ever are offering platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to their patients, especially those with osteoarthritis, tennis and golfer’s elbow, partial rotator cuff tears, Achilles and patellar tendonopathy and plantar fasciitis, just to name a few.
We often say, “not all PRP is the same.” There are so many details that go into the success rate of the injections. On that subject, how do you define success? Less pain, better function, healing of damaged tissue and/or the slowing of the deterioration of cartilage, especially in osteoarthritis. PRP can truly be a disease-modifying treatment, not just something to make you temporarily feel better.
Now, what details really matter?
Experience of the physician: how long has he/she been giving PRP injections
Accuracy of the injection: ultrasound-guidance is paramount
Amount of blood used to produce the PRP: we’ve learned that a higher volume of blood is likely necessary to produce the optimal number of platelets
Creation of the PRP: constructing the optimal amount of PRP to inject for each condition. Creating a mixture either rich in leukocytes (white blood cells) or poor in leukocytes
Providing the best recommendations regarding what medications and supplements should be temporarily stopped before and after the injections
Providing the best recommendations regarding restrictions (use of a boot, crutches, bracing, type of rest) after the PRP
Deciding upon the optimal number and frequency of injections to give
Working with a physician who is frequently involved in medical education on the topic of orthobiologic injections, including PRP
Working with a physician who is transparent and communicative regarding outcomes, expectations and cost
If truth be told, only a few physicians in Middle Tennessee implement all of these details when it comes to PRP injections.
So, if you think you are candidate for this very natural, quite effective, and minimally-invasive treatment, then come see us!