Platelet rich plasma (PRP) involves the use of platelet derived growth factors in the healing of tendon and muscle injuries. The process includes collection of a patient’s blood with isolation and concentration of the platelets. The concentrated platelets are then injected into the damaged tissue accelerating the healing process.
PRP therapy has made the headlines and utilized by many professional athletic teams.
Does it work?
According to Robert J. de Vos, M.D., in his recent publication in the Journal of American Medial Association, PRP injections did not significantly improve pain or activity level in patients with long-standing history of Achilles tendon irritation. What this article did not discuss was the therapeutic effect of simply irritating the tendon (percutaneous tenotomy) which has been demonstrated to be effective.
Regenerative medicine has an increasing number of tools. At the Centeno-Schultz Clinic it is our goal to utilize the appropriate regenerative therapy for the best possible clinical outcome.