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Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP): A Biologic Solution – “Heal Thy Self”

Platelet rich plasma injections (PRP) is regarded as a revolutionary modality of care in the regenerative medicine. Due to hazardous long-term complications of surgical interventions, less invasive procedures like PRP are getting extremely popular as safer alternative to surgeries in the optimal management of soft tissue injuries.

Platelets are small cells in the blood that help form clots to stop bleeding.  Platelets also contain hundreds of proteins called growth factors which are very important in the healing of injuries.  Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is plasma with many more platelets than what is typically found in blood. The concentration of platelets — and, thereby, the concentration of growth factors — can be 5 to 10 times greater (or richer) than usual.

What are the goals of a PRP injection?

When PRP is injected, it can stimulate the body’s natural healing of injuries.  The goal is not only to relieve symptoms but to create actual healing.  In some cases, PRP may reduce the need for medication.

What are conditions are treated?

  • Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar fascia tears
  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Peroneal Tendonitis
  • Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
  • Arthritis
  • Tendon/Ligament injuries

How is the treatment performed?

A small amount of a patient’s blood is drawn and is placed in a special machine that spins the blood at high speeds, which separates the platelets from the other blood components. The platelets are then concentrated and re-injected into the injured area or arthritic joint. In turn, the platelets release substances known as growth factors that lead to improved natural tissue healing.

 

A physician may recommend a single injection, or a series of injections based on the injury being treated and a patient’s initial response to the therapy. Your doctor may use ultrasound or an X-ray as a guide to placing the injection.

What to expect after a PRP injection

You may experience mild pain and irritation of the area for several days following the injection. Some patients may be asked to limit motion or weight-bearing activity immediately following the injection. The use of a brace, boot or cast may be recommended during the early post-injection course.

 

Three to seven days after the injection, you may gradually return to normal physical activities. The return to full activity is determined based on response to the therapy and the recommendation of your provider.

 

Below is a list of professional athletes who have used Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy:

Football Players Who Used PRP Therapy

Baseball Players Who Used PRP Therapy

Basketball Players Who Used PRP Therapy

  • Brandon Roy
  • Kobe Bryant
  • Josh Howard
  • Mickael Pietrus
  • Wesley Matthews
  • Rashard Lewis
  • Derrick Rose
  • Greg Oden
  • Trevor Booker
  • Steve Blake
  • Deron Williams
  • Enes Kanter
  • Reggie Bullock
  • Andre Iguodala

Golfers Who Used PRP Therapy

Other Athletes Who Used PRP Therapy

  • Tyson Gay (sprinter)
  • Donovan Bailey (sprinter)
  • Dara Torres (swimmer)
  • Jean Pascal (boxer)
  • Pa Modou Kah (soccer)
  • Rafael Nadal (tennis)
  • Maria Sharapova (tennis)
  • Nicky Hayden (Indy Racer)
  • Cat Zingano (Female MMA)

 

For further questions about PRP please call one of our offices

Northbrook 847 297 9660, Crest Hill 815-838-9505

 

Dr. Zinoviy Rabinovich D.P.M., Board Certified Physician and Surgeon of Foot and Ankle – a doctor who is on time, who looks at and listens to you and not the computer, who provides immediate relief and follows through to complete satisfaction. Experience, expertise, convenience of scheduling, evening hours, and a personal innovative approach for all your and your children’s foot care needs. Northbrook 847-297-9660, Crest Hill 815-838-9505 or book online at www.absolutefootandankleclinic.com.

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