When it comes to Platelet Rich Plasma (also known as PRP), many have questioned whether or not it works- even though many patients (and professional athletes) have benefited from this treatment.

Now even more research confirms that it works. In fact, high level evidence (level 1a evidence - for those science nerds) exists for its use!

Check these research results out:

“Several randomized clinical trials have investigated the capacity of PRP to repair tendons, ligaments, muscles and cartilage, and to date there is level 1a evidence to support its use for lateral epicondylitis, osteoarthritis of the knee, plantar fasciitis and rotator cuff tendinopathy; and level 1b for patellar tendinopathy and osteoarthritis of the hip”.

The main take away is that for some specific types of injuries, PRP can and does work. The key to getting relief from PRP is finding a provider who knows “what and where” to treat.

What Is Injured?

One thing that comes into play is comparing what area of the body is being treated with PRP. For example, Achilles injuries obviously will have different healing rates than elbow injuries. Some areas of the body tend to heal better with these types of treatments than others.

The severity of the injury also matters. Basically large tendon injuries in general will not improve as fast as small injury areas. Smaller injury sites may respond much better. This makes perfect sense.

How Does The Body Respond?

Another thing to consider is the healing potential of the injury. If you have low growth factors in the body, low hormone conditions, or a disease such as diabetes, you may not heal or respond to a PRP type treatment.

It is IMPORTANT to optimize your healing potential. Your body needs to have the ability to respond to the PRP injection.

We have designed a special protocol that we use following PRP injury injection, to help your body to respond following the PRP treatment. As with any treatment, results will vary.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact the office. We also have a free newsletter that provides the latest in cutting edge medical information. Please sign up below if you are interested.

Best,

Brian Anderson, D.O.

*information is not to be used as formal medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any treatment. All results may vary.

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