Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a wonder of regenerative medicine. It employs the body’s own healing powers to speed recovery from a variety of musculoskeletal and nerve conditions. Thankfully, many people can avoid very invasive orthopedic and neurologic treatments when they opt for PRP therapy. Here’s more on PRP therapy and how it can be used to treat elbow pain and injuries.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP therapy involves isolating and injecting a person’s own blood platelets into an area of acute or chronic injury, a wound, or a surgical site. It has its widest use in orthopedic applications as it can reduce pain and inflammation as well as improve circulation and speedup natural healing.
PRP starts with a blood draw from the patient’s arm. The doctor then spins the sample in a lab centrifuge to separate the plasma from the solid components. Then, the platelets (blood clotting cells) and growth factors are highly concentrated into a single injectable form.
The doctor injects the platelets back into the patient at the site of injury, pain, or surgery. Except for the initial needle stick, the process is painless and well-tolerated so the individual can return to work or other activities immediately. There may be some localized bruising or swelling which resolves fast.
The Results of PRP Therapy
PRP Therapy is used to speed healing and tissue regeneration for a wide array of musculoskeletal problems. It even has aesthetic dermatology applications–it can be used to stimulate hair regrowth on the scalp or to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin on the face.
Usually, patients require more than one PRP injection to sustain the desired therapeutic outcomes. These injections may be spaced weeks or even months apart.
PRP for Tennis Elbow
Many athletes and active individuals wonder if PRP will work for elbow injuries. The answer is yes! Platelet-rich plasma therapy is highly effective in treating a common condition called tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis.
Tennis elbow involves pain and swelling of the forearm tendons as they cross the bony bump, or condyle, on the outer aspect of the elbow. Tennis elbow happens due to repetitive motions involved in:
- Swinging a tennis racket (especially the backhand stroke)
- Painting a wall
- Slicing meats or breads (butchers and cooks)
- Using plumber’s wrenches
- Manipulating a laptop or desktop mouse
Even opening a door or gripping a cup can be difficult due to the swelling associated with tennis elbow.
When rest, ice, compression with an elastic bandage, and elevation of the joint do not alleviate tennis elbow pain, PRP therapy can help. It can provide the necessary pain relief and healing needed to resume normal activities and to avoid surgery. PRP therapy helps people use fewer and less potent pain medications, too. If you’re wondering where you can find PRP for tennis elbow or even PRP for arthritis pain near you, look no further than NIVA Health.
PRP Therapy Near Me at NIVA Health
PRP therapy is just one of the many innovative treatments we use at NIVA Health. Our teamconsists of board-certified doctors and nurse practitioners who will develop an individual treatment plan for your specific condition.
To find out more or to schedule an appointment, see which NIVA Health location is nearest you or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to treating you!
