PRP – A Revolutionary Way to Help the Body Heal Itself
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is a therapy that uses your own plasma (blood) to help heal and regenerate damaged tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues. When tissues are torn or sprained, the body naturally sends extra blood to the area to amp up the development of new collagen fibers. However, when this process is interrupted by inflammation, scar tissue or inadequate circulation, the body’s own repair system may be insufficient to repair the damage quickly and properly.
In PRP therapy, your blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge so that its platelets and growth factors can be captured in their concentrated form, creating a potent tissue growth stimulant that your FMI physician can inject directly into the injured area, speeding up the body’s natural healing process. Because PRP contains no additives or preservatives, only your body’s own concentrated plasma, there is absolutely no risk of allergic reaction.
Although relatively new in the US, PRP has been widely and successfully used throughout Europe for years, and can be an effective solution for people suffering from osteoarthritis, chronic tendonitis, tendinosis or tendinopathy, or an unhealed torn tendon or pulled muscle.
Says orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Carl Ollivierre, “In addition to those with a chronic injury, PRP is also a boon to athletes who want to accelerate the healing process so they’re not out of the game for the standard 8-12 weeks. It can help ensure proper healing so there’s less likelihood of excessive scar tissue formation, which can further reduce adequate blood flow and cause long-term issues.”
PRP treatment is quick, safe, minimally invasive and cost-effective, making it an exciting advance in the treatment of soft tissue injury and certain chronic pain conditions. For more information on how PRP may help treat your painful injury or condition, contact FMI.