Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy?
· ​PRP is a regenerative treatment utilizing components of your own blood to promote healing and recovery. A small amount of your blood is drawn up into a syringe. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which separates the platelets from the blood in a concentrated form. The concentrated platelets are rich in growth factors essential for tissue repair. Once the PRP is prepared, a small needle is used to numb the skin and then the PRP is injected into the affected area.
· The PRP stimulates an inflammatory response, which is a natural part of the healing process. The growth factors in PRP promote cellular growth and proliferation and may promote repair and regeneration of the injured tissue.​​​
​​​
How do I prepare for the injection?
· Stay well-hydrated as this allows for an easier blood draw.
​
· Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications for 7 days prior to the procedure. These medications include the following: Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Celebrex, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Meloxicam, Motrin, Prednisone
​​​​​
Activity after the procedure
· Keep the injection site clean, dry, and covered with a bandaid for the first 24 hours. Showering at any time is okay. ​
​
· Localized bruising and some swelling is normal. This may take 3-7 days to resolve.
· Limit use of the treated area for 2-3 days after the injection. Avoid strenuous activity for 1-2 weeks.
· Some patients will have a post injection flare up of pain from the inflammatory response to the injection. This can cause significant pain and swelling that typically resolves within the first week. If this occurs, ice can be helpful in reducing discomfort.
· Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for at least 7 days after the injection. Ideally these should be avoided for 6 weeks after the injection if possible. If pain medication is needed, we suggest Tylenol so long as you are able to take it safely.
Do NOT take more than 3,000 mg Tylenol in 24 hours
​​​​
How long does it take to work?
· The healing process takes time. Improvement in pain is slow and it is not uncommon for relief to take more than 6 weeks.
​​​​​
Follow-up care
· You will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Williams 10-14 days after your injection. Dr. Williams may also recommend hand or physical therapy after your PRP injection.
​​
When to call your surgeon
· If you experience any fevers, chills, excessive pain drainage from the injection site, bleeding, or persistent redness of the injection site, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call Dr. Williams’ office.​​