Platelet rich Plasma (PRP)
Many famous athletes — golfer, Tiger Woods, tennis star, Rafael Nadal, and several others — have received PRP for various problems, such as sprained knees and chronic tendon injuries. These types of conditions have typically been treated with medications, physical therapy, or even surgery. Some athletes have credited PRP with their being able to return more quickly to competition.
I usually don't write reviews but I truly believe that Dr. Ali, Maddie, and the rest of the staff all deserve big kudos! They know how to make you feel heard and that they care about understanding your Individual situation. I was referred to Dr. Ali after having surgery on my neck/head. I was hesitant at first bc you think "pain management" and you think pills and that was not a solution I was willing to accept. Dr. Ali was able to listen to my symptoms, not look at me like I was crazy and diagnose and provide a treatment plan that day. I was so relieved. 6 weeks, 2 nerve blocking injections, and an epidural Injection later and my symptoms are almost 100% relieved. And Bonus on my 2nd visit everyone In The office knew my name and greeted me as soon as I walked in the door. If you are hesitant atleast take the time to talk to this team and see what options are available for pain relief. I'm so glad I did.
- Ashley Cross
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What is it?
Although blood is mainly a liquid (called plasma), it also contains small solid components (red cells, white cells, and platelets). The platelets are best known for their importance in clotting blood. However, platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors that are very important in the healing of injuries.
PRP is plasma with more platelets than what is typically found in people's blood. The concentration of platelets — and, thereby, the concentration of growth factors — can be 5 to 10 times greater (or richer) than usual.
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To develop a PRP preparation, blood must first be drawn from a patient. The platelets are separated from other blood cells and their concentration is increased during a process called centrifugation. These platelets are then injected into the injured site to promote inflammation, which brings upon healing.
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Conditions it treats
Recent research has shown that certain tendon problems can have improved outcomes with PRP injections. Additionally, more literature is showing the significant effectiveness of PRP in the treatment of mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Factors that can influence the effectiveness of PRP treatment include:
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The area of the body being treated
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The overall health of the patient
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Whether the injury is acute (such as from a fall) or chronic (an injury developing over time)
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The preparation of the PRP, including the cellular makeup of the material that is injected
