PRP TreatmentIrvine, CA
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, treatment involves the use of patients’ blood to help heal after an injury. PRP treatment is considered a regenerative procedure as it encourages the body's natural growth to heal injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. Although a fairly new practice, PRP treatment shows increasing popularity and promise in regenerative medicine.
At Harbor Medical Clinic and Wellness Center, we offer PRP treatments for patients who have suffered an injury. Our team can help your body recover in the safest, most natural way possible. To learn more about a procedure or schedule an appointment, call 1-949-551-1234 today.
PLATELET RICH PLASMA EVALUATION AND TREATMENT
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a non-surgical treatment to help regenerate cartilage, tendon, and ligaments. Patient’s own blood contains multiple growth factors enhancing regeneration of tissue. Blood is drawn from the patient. Through advanced PRP technology, the Platelet Rich Plasma and many growth factors are concentrated. This concentrated healing solution of Platelet Rich Plasma is injected to the degenerated site. Platelet Rich Plasma advances are giving hope and optimism to individuals suffering with chronic pain associated with aging process, wear and tear of life, sport injuries, degenerative joint disease, and osteoarthritis.
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AB, PDGF-BB, transforming growth factor-β1, insulin-like growth factor-I, fibroblast growth factor-basic (FGF-b), epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-12 (p40/70), and normal T-cell expressed are the cells that come to site of injury to help regeneration of damaged area. Platelets are the natural response of our body to heal itself. Platelet Rich Plasma is concentrated to include growth factors and cytokines to accelerate and enhance regeneration of the tissue.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) uses your own blood as a healing solution without allergies or negative side effects to a solution. PRP Therapy is popularized by celebrity sportsmen, reduces/eliminates need for surgical procedures in acute and chronic sport injury, chronic arthritis, and wear and tear of musculoskeletal system associated with overuse and the aging process.
Platelet Rich Plasma is also used in cosmetic therapy and hair growth.
What Is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Plasma is a liquid that makes up most of the blood. It contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. Platelets also contain hundreds of proteins known as growth factors, which are crucial in healing injuries.
Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is plasma with a higher concentration of platelets than usual. In turn, the concentration of growth factors may be five to 10 times richer than the average. PRP treatment involves taking a sample of the patient's blood, separating the platelets from the other blood cells, and increasing their concentration during a process called centrifugation.
How PRP Treatment Works
Over 30 healing bioactive proteins and seven healing protein growth factors are present in platelets. PRP also contains three types of proteins that assist cells in adhering to one another, which is an integral component of healing. In other words, PRP treatment can activate various complex healing processes while reducing inflammation cells and enhancing cellular growth.
PRP treatment is still a relatively new procedure; further research is necessary to determine just how the treatment works. Regardless, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), existing literature proves that PRP treatment has the potential to expedite the healing process. This is possible through injection into the injured area. Some patients may also opt for PRP to improve healing after surgery.
Conditions Treated Through PRP
A variety of conditions may benefit from PRP treatment, including but not limited to acute injuries, postsurgical repair, and osteoarthritis. It can help treat shoulder pain caused by rotator cuff tears, Achilles tendon ruptures, and other soft-tissue injuries and reduce pain in people with tendonitis or chronic tendinosis conditions such as tennis elbow.
While patients should keep in mind that PRP treatment is still an emerging therapy, more and more literature has been proving the effectiveness of PRP in treating joint and back pain. However, various factors may affect the effectiveness of PRP treatment, including the area being treated, the patient's overall health, the preparation of the PRP treatment, and whether the injury is acute or chronic.
What to Expect From PRP Treatment
To begin treatment, we must draw a sample of the patient's own blood. We do this using a machine to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. Afterward, we will numb the treated area before injecting it with the plasma.
In some cases, we may also use ultrasound technology to ensure that we are targeting the correct area. Most injections take only 30 minutes, depending on the treated area. Once the platelets are in the treated area, they will disintegrate and release growth factors to help repair and renew cells.
Potential Side Effects of PRP Treatment
PRP treatment is a generally safe procedure, especially when conducted by an experienced professional. However, some side effects are still possible as it involves injecting a substance into the skin. PRP is autologous, encompassing substances derived directly from the patient's body. As such, the risk for allergic reactions is lower than compared to any other medications. Still, the injection itself may carry risks, such as:
- Infection
- Nerve injuries
- Pain at the injection site
- Tissue damage
Our team will discuss any potential risks associated with the procedure and do everything necessary to minimize any negative side effects.
Schedule a Visit Today
PRP consultations and treatments are available at our office. The Harbor Medical Clinic and Wellness Center team looks forward to treating you and helping you on the road to recovery. Call our office at 1-949-551-1234 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP Treatment
What is PRP treatment?
PRP treatment involves using a patient’s blood to treat and heal affected sites due to injury. PRP treatment can help patients recover faster and more naturally. We perform the treatment through injection.
How long is the average recovery time with PRP treatment?
Depending on your case, we may recommend resting the affected area after your injections. However, such recommendations typically have more to do with the injury itself than the injection. Most patients can return to their day-to-day activities after PRP treatment.
Is PRP treatment painful?
It is fairly common for the treatment area to be sore for two or three days, and you may experience some bruising. Still, acetaminophen is typically enough to ease any discomfort. If you are experiencing severe pain, call our office immediately.
How many PRP injections will I need?
It depends on a variety of factors. Most patients require anywhere from one to three injections. Factors to consider can include whether the condition is chronic and the location of the affected area. We can give you a better idea of what to expect during the initial consultation and the day of your appointment.
How do you determine whether a patient is a viable candidate for PRP treatment?
An initial consultation is the first step in determining whether PRP treatment is right for a patient. During this visit, we will discuss your medical history and current complaints with a comprehensive overview. We will also thoroughly examine your injury or condition. Once an official diagnosis has been made, we will discuss your treatment options and determine what is best for your recovery.
Contact Us
Harbor Medical Clinic and Wellness Center is located at 33 Creek Rd., Building C, Suite 310 Irvine, CA 92604.
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