What is the connection between PRP and natural pain relief? You may have heard of platelet-rich plasma, but what is it and how does it help relieve pain? Read on to find out how this natural therapy takes the healing power your body already possesses and magnifies it, sending that boost exactly where you need it most.
Our doctors use PRP to help patients get pain relief from all types of conditions, including:
- Joint pain
- Back pain
- Torn ligaments
- Damaged cartilage
- Neuropathy
- Knee pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Disc problems
- Bone issues
- Elbow pain
- And more
What’s in PRP Injections?
Your blood is made up of different components. The two main components are plasma and platelets. The platelets have a number of incredible healing components, such as proteins and growth factors, that aid tremendously in healing and repairing the body. Our doctors utilize these components in order to promote healing in areas of need.
For PRP therapy, what we do is start with a small blood sample that is drawn directly from the patient in-house. This is then spun at a rapid rate in a machine called a centrifuge, which separates the components of the blood. The concentration of platelets is then taken and added to a small amount of plasma to create the actual serum that is used in the PRP injection.
The final serum is incredibly rich in healing properties, and can not only aid recovery in injured areas but also does wonders in aesthetic procedures as well.
When the platelet-rich plasma is injected into a damaged area, these factors work together to begin repairing the tissue. Within a few short weeks, you should experience the benefits of this natural pain relief. Depending on the severity of the injury, it may require multiple treatments. Many of our patients see full results within 3-6 months.
The procedure itself is quick, minimally invasive, and virtually painless. We can also use a topical anesthetic to keep our patients as comfortable as possible throughout the process. The injection site may be a little stiff for a couple of days following, which is normal. Your body will be adjusting to the introduction of new cells, and hard at work creating new tissue where it is needed.
Platelet-rich plasma injections can help those who:
- Are looking to speed up healing
- Want to get to the root of their pain
- Have an injured tendon or ligament that isn’t healing
- Would prefer to go the route of natural pain relief over risky medication and surgery
Many patients undergo surgery, and many more go down the path of seemingly endless medications and painkillers to manage their painful symptoms. However, these options are not for everyone. You may not be comfortable with the risks and side effects associated with these, or interested in taking the time to go through with surgery and the recovery process.
For those who would like to work with the body’s natural pain relief processes, there is always PRP, platelet-rich plasma. Our medical clinic is here to answer your questions and help you find the treatment that works best for you.