Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a relatively new technique that is being used in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. PRP promotes and stimulates a more complete revascularization due to connective tissue. This in turn produces a gradient through which the epithelial cells can migrate and start the healing process.
So how does the therapy work? In our blood, we have red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Doctors will take a small amount, about 30 ml, and put it in a centrifuge. The blood is then spun until the different parts of the blood are separated out. The doctor will then remove the platelets that have risen to the top and inject them into the injury site. Once the platelets are injected, they release growth factors that aid in the healing of injured tissues. PRP therapy has been receiving some news in the media lately due to its use in professional sports. If you watched the 2008 US Open held at Torrey Pines, you would have seen Tiger Woods limping around the golf course with a badly-injured knee. After that tournament, Tiger underwent PRP therapy to help with the healing process of his surgically-repaired knee. The use of PRP therapy is also seen in other sports as well. For example, Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu allegedly received PRP therapy before last year’s Super Bowl.
So how does the therapy work? In our blood, we have red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Doctors will take a small amount, about 30 ml, and put it in a centrifuge. The blood is then spun until the different parts of the blood are separated out. The doctor will then remove the platelets that have risen to the top and inject them into the injury site. Once the platelets are injected, they release growth factors that aid in the healing of injured tissues. PRP therapy has been receiving some news in the media lately due to its use in professional sports. If you watched the 2008 US Open held at Torrey Pines, you would have seen Tiger Woods limping around the golf course with a badly-injured knee. After that tournament, Tiger underwent PRP therapy to help with the healing process of his surgically-repaired knee. The use of PRP therapy is also seen in other sports as well. For example, Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu allegedly received PRP therapy before last year’s Super Bowl.
PRP therapy isn’t just for the professional athlete. Many patients are receiving PRP therapy for torn tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Lately in the press, PRP therapy and HGH have been confused. HGH is considered to be a performance- enhancing substance, which PRP is not. PRP therapy isn’t to be confused with Human Growth Hormone (HGH). PRP therapy is a newer technique that can greatly aid in the healing and recovery of injuries.
If you are suffering from foot pain associated with an injury, Dr. Pandya can help and may possibly be able to use this therapy. If you would like to visit his webpage, he can be found on the Internet at www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.
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