Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are becoming more and more common for a range of conditions, from sports injuries to hair loss. Utilising a patient’s own blood cells, the procedure quickens the healing process in a particular area.
PRP – what is it?
The two components of platelet-rich plasma are platelets, a type of blood cell that promotes wound healing, and plasma, the liquid element of blood. The clotting abilities of platelets are widely recognised, but they also include growth factors that can promote tissue regeneration and repair in the treated area. Blood that contains more platelets than usual is referred to as platelet-rich plasma.
Clinicians collect a patient’s blood sample and spin it quickly in a centrifuge to create platelet-rich plasma. This process separates the platelets from the rest of the blood and concentrates them in the plasma.
How does the injection work?
Platelet-rich plasma is produced from a patient’s blood sample and then injected into the desired area, such as an injured knee or a tendon. In rare cases, the practitioner may utilise ultrasound to direct the injection. The objective is to increase the concentration of particular bio proteins or hormones known as growth factors in a particular region to hasten the healing process.
Increased growth factor concentrations in platelet-rich plasma have been found to accelerate or hasten the healing process, decreasing the time it takes for an injury to heal, decreasing pain, and even promoting hair growth.
What it can treat
PRP injections are used to treat a variety of issues, including pain, injuries, and cosmetic operations.
- Musculoskeletal injuries
PRP injections can be used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Including PRP in your treatment plan will assist to hasten the healing process, lessen pain, and enable you to resume your favourite activities sooner for chronic tendon injuries like jumper’s knee or tennis elbow.
- Post-surgery
PRP was initially used by surgeons to hasten the recovery after jaw or plastic surgery. PRP injections are now utilised after surgery to help with healing muscles, tendons, and ligaments where recovery durations are often longer.
- Osteoarthritis
By changing the environment around the joint and reducing inflammation, osteoarthritis PRP injections help relieve the pain and stiffness associated with the condition.
- Damaged hair
For both men and women who have pattern baldness, PRP injections can help stop hair loss and encourage the growth of stronger hair. Following hair transplants, PRP can aid in stimulating hair growth.
- Skin resurfacing
When PRP is applied to the face, it makes use of your own growth factors to encourage the production of new cells and collagen, which helps to improve your skin’s texture and complexion.
Dangers and adverse effects
PRP injections are a technique with little risk and few side effects. Individuals should drink plenty of water and eat before the procedure to prevent becoming lightheaded because the procedure calls for a blood sample. Following the injection, there can be some pain and bruising.
PRP injections, which are composed of the patient’s own cells and plasma, are much less likely to result in a negative reaction than other injectable medications like corticosteroids. Individuals might suffer a few small negative effects.
