Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an effective and safe treatment for many musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including arthritis. Board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Shail Vyas, MD, offers PRP treatments at Orange County Orthopaedic Group in Anaheim Hills, California. To find out how PRP can help you heal and recover more quickly, call the office today.

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What is platelet-rich plasma?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a blood solution that contains a high concentration of platelets. You may be familiar with platelets due to their role in forming blood clots. These particles that occur naturally in your blood also contain proteins called growth factors that help your body heal from injuries. 

To prepare PRP, Dr. Vyas or a member of the team at Orange County Orthopaedic Group draws a small sample of blood from your arm. They process your blood in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from your blood cells. Then, they inject the PRP into the area of your body that needs treatment. 

How does PRP work?

PRP contains about 5-10 times more healing growth factors than your normal blood. This increased concentration of growth factors speeds up your body’s healing process. PRP stimulates the production of healthy new cells that replace the damaged ones and increases blood flow to the injured area. 

 

What does PRP treat?

Dr. Vyas uses PRP to treat a wide range of sports injuries and orthopaedic conditions, including:

  • Achilles tendon injuries
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Knee arthritis
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
  • Hamstring muscle injuries
  • Tennis elbow

He may also use PRP to improve healing after a surgical procedure, such as rotator cuff repair or ACL reconstruction. In some cases, early intervention with PRP may reduce or eliminate the need for surgery. 

What should I expect from a PRP treatment?

First, Dr. Vyas thoroughly reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam to make sure PRP is right for you. Then, he develops a personalized treatment plan for your particular needs. 

Before treatment, Dr. Vyas or a member of his team collects a small vial of your blood. They process the blood and obtain PRP, then Dr. Vyas injects it into the treatment area. Depending on your condition, he may use an imaging procedure, like ultrasound, to guide the injection to the precise area of injury.

Afterward, you may experience an increase in pain for the first few days. This is a normal part of the healing process. You should notice gradual improvement beginning about 2-6 weeks after your PRP injection. 

To learn more about PRP, call Orange County Orthopaedic Group to book an appointment today.