Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy
Severe acute or chronic pain can drastically reduce your quality of life (QoL) and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL’s). At Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists in Arlington, Virginia, Drs. John Huffman and Talal Ghazal offer Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection therapy to help reduce pain, promote healing and improve function.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma therapy?
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a specialized procedure that involves injecting concentrated platelets from one’s own blood into an inflamed area of the body. Platelets are blood cells responsible for forming blood clots to stop bleeding. Platelets contain stimulating growth factors with significant healing capabilities. PRP injections naturally augment the body’s healing process to treat painful and potentially chronic conditions.
How is the procedure performed?
Blood is withdrawn from the body, like having routine blood work drawn. The blood is then placed into a specialized centrifuge to concentrate the platelets in the plasma. The now platelet rich plasma is then injected into the target area, culminating in the release of concentrated growth factors to help the cells repair and renew. Your doctor may use fluoroscopy (X-ray) or ultrasound guidance to ensure the PRP is injected into the proper target site.
Who is a candidate for PRP therapy?
Drs. Huffman and Ghazal might suggest you try PRP injection therapy if you struggle with these types of painful conditions:
- Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, including osteoarthritis, joint injury, or degenerative joint disease
- Muscle strain or tear
- Tendon injury or inflammation
Your IPRMS Doctor will discuss your medical history and symptoms to determine if you’re a candidate for PRP injection therapy. They will complete a directed physical examination, review X-rays and other diagnostic imaging studies to determine the root cause of your painful condition.
How long does the procedure take?
The entire procedure will take approximately 60 minutes to complete. The preparation time for the PRP is approximately 30 minutes.
Where is the procedure performed?
It is typically done in an office or surgical suite under sterile conditions, utilizing fluoroscopy or ultrasound.
What are the risks and side effects?
The procedure is generally safe. However, with any procedure or medication, there are potential risks, complications, and side effects. The potential risks to a certain degree depending on the region of the treatment. Whenever a needle is introduced through the skin there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and soreness. For this reason, all our procedures are performed under sterile technique, and a careful history is taken to ensure any risks of bleeding are minimized. On occasion, one may develop numbness due to the spread of the local anesthetic. The injection sites are near blood vessels, nerves, and other vital structures, which can be potentially damaged. Great care is taken when placing the needle(s) to minimize the risk of complications.
Can I return to work the same day?
Generally, yes, unless you experience prolonged pain or soreness at the injection treatment site(s).
Don’t live with severe or ongoing pain that can make everyday tasks unbearable. Call Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists to schedule an appointment or book online today to determine if PRP injection therapy may be an appropriate choice for you.
