Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that utilizes the natural growth factors found in a persons blood to aid in the healing process. It involves extracting a small amount of the patients blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components. The concentrated platelets are then mixed with a small amount of plasma and injected into the injured or diseased area of the body to accelerate the healing of damaged tendons, ligaments, muscles, bones, and joints.
PRP therapy has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including torn tendons, tendinitis, muscle injuries, arthritis-related pain, joint injuries, and even male pattern baldness. It has also been employed in cosmetic procedures to target signs of aging, such as wrinkles, and to stimulate hair growth.
The mechanism behind PRP injections is not completely understood, but it is believed that the increased concentration of growth factors in platelet-rich plasma may stimulate or speed up the healing process, shortening the recovery time for injuries, decreasing pain, and encouraging tissue regeneration.
PRP therapy is considered investigational and has not been officially approved by the FDA for most uses, although the equipment used to produce PRP and the injections themselves have been cleared by the FDA. It is important to note that while PRP is derived from a persons own blood, there are still potential risks associated with the injection, including infection, nerve injuries, pain at the injection site, and tissue damage.
