What Is PRP Therapy?
Are you struggling with pain that just won’t let up, no matter what you try? You’re not the only one. Over 20% of adults in the US live with chronic pain, and it can take a toll on every aspect of your life.
But that’s where platelet-rich plasma therapy comes in. This treatment taps into your body’s own healing power to target pain at its source and reduce inflammation. Learn more about what PRP therapy is and how it works below.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that involves extracting a blood sample, processing it to isolate the platelets, and then re-injecting the platelet-rich plasma directly into the area of pain or injury. Platelets are tiny blood cells that play an important role in the body’s natural healing process.
How Does PRP Treatment Work?
The treatment works by targeting the root cause of your pain — damaged or dysfunctional tissues. Unlike quick fixes like medications or steroid injections, PRP actually helps heal and regenerate the injured area. Here’s how it works:
- Platelet Activation: When PRP is injected into the site of pain or inflammation, the high concentration of platelets becomes activated; this triggers the release of growth factors, which are needed for tissue repair and regeneration.
- Cellular Recruitment: The growth factors in the PRP solution attract stem cells and other regenerative cells to the treatment area. These cells then begin repairing and rebuilding the damaged tissues.
- Tissue Regeneration: Over time, new, healthy cells replace the damaged ones, restoring muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and even bone.
- Inflammation Reduction: PRP also has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the treatment area.
The end result is a natural, holistic treatment that doesn’t just cover up the pain but heals the source. It might take a few weeks to see full results, but many patients report significant improvements after just one or two treatments.
What Conditions Does PRP Therapy Treat?
PRP therapy is incredibly versatile and can treat several types of chronic pain, especially those affecting the muscles and joints. Some of the most common conditions it helps with include:
Osteoarthritis
Plasma therapy has been found effective in slowing the progression of osteoarthritis and relieving joint pain, particularly in the knees, hips, and shoulders.
Tendinitis
It effectively treats chronic tendon problems like tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis, and rotator cuff tendinitis.
Ligament and Muscle Injuries
PRP can speed up recovery from sprains, strains, and muscle and ligament tears.
Degenerative Disc Disease
If you have chronic low back pain due to disc degeneration, PRP may help regenerate the discs and ease your discomfort.
Nerve Pain
PRP has also shown promise in helping manage nerve pain conditions like diabetic neuropathy.
Overall, because PRP therapy is customizable, it’s a flexible treatment option that can target your unique pain points.
PRP Therapy FAQs
Is PRP Treatment Safe?
Yes, PRP therapy is considered a very safe treatment option. Since it uses your own blood, the risk of side effects or complications is extremely low.
Yes, PRP therapy is considered a very safe treatment option. Since it uses your own blood, the risk of side effects or complications is extremely low.
How Long Does PRP Treatment Take?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a quick, in-office treatment that usually takes less than an hour from start to finish. Afterward, you can go home, though you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity for a bit to let the injection site heal.
How Many PRP Treatments Will I Need?
It depends on the severity of your condition and how your body responds to the treatment. Some patients feel better after just one or two treatments, while others may need 3-4 injections spaced over a few weeks. Our East Tennessee pain specialists will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
When Will I Start to Feel Relief?
PRP therapy isn’t an instant fix. You might experience some discomfort right after the injection, but keep in mind the treatment is designed for long-term healing. Most people start to see improvements in their pain levels within 4-6 weeks, with continued progress over the following months.
What Should I Expect After My PRP Injection?
To help manage any post-treatment discomfort, we may recommend that you:
- Rest the treated area and avoid laborious activity for a brief period.
- Apply ice packs to the injection site to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
- Use any necessary medical devices, like crutches or slings, to protect the area while it heals.
As the initial swelling subsides, you’ll start noticing gradual improvements in your pain and mobility. To support your recovery, you may be referred to physical therapy, where you’ll learn gentle, take-home exercises.
Living with Chronic Pain? Contact Our Clinic Today!
If you’re dealing with stubborn, ongoing pain, PRP therapy may be the answer. At Grace Point Pain Management, our caring and experienced team is here to help you find lasting relief.
Call 865-503-6865 or reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and learn how platelet-rich plasma treatment can help you get back to feeling your best.