Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Specialist

What is platelet-rich plasma?

Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood. Platelet-rich plasma is plasma that’s been highly concentrated with white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, which promote rapid healing in the right circumstances. Platelet-rich plasma is made from your own plasma and your own platelets, making it safe and natural.

How does PRP promote healing?

Activated platelets release growth factors that promote the growth of cells responsible for tissue repair. An increased number of reparative cells in the area can lead to improved and expedited healing.

Which injuries are most likely to improve with PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma is still being studied for a number of orthopedic uses, but so far studies have shown PRP to be most effective in healing tendonitis nearly everywhere, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, ankle, and knee, as well as chronic ligament problems.

How safe is PRP?

Because PRP is made from your own blood, which is drawn prior to injection, it’s considered a safe, natural treatment without risk of allergic reaction.

However, as in all medical treatments, some inherent risk exists. Procedures involving the injection of a needle, like PRP, come with a small risk of bleeding, infection, or nerve damage.

What can I expect during my appointment?

After checking in with reception and being led to an exam room, your blood will be drawn by one of the qualified staff at Kristofer J. Jones, MD, using strict, sterile techniques to prevent infection.

Next, you’ll wait while your blood is processed. That is, the liquid (called plasma) is separated from the solid components (platelets and red and white blood cells). These are activated and then highly concentrated into the volume of plasma your doctor will inject into the treatment area.

Finally, you’ll receive an injection of platelet-rich plasma, made from the components of your own blood, directly into the treatment area.

What should I expect during recovery?

Dr. Jones will provide you with clear instructions after recovery, which generally involve a period of rest followed by a progressive exercise program designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles supporting the affected joint.