Musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative conditions can be complex. No two patients are exactly alike, and treatment plans for the same condition can vary considerably from patient to patient. For some, PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections can promote healing in damaged tissues and joints and help relieve discomfort.

How do PRP injections work?

PRP injections are a type of regenerative medicine – the branch of orthopedics that focuses on restoring or growing new, healthy tissues rather than simply addressing symptoms. This therapy works by leveraging the natural restorative abilities of the patient’s own blood. Platelets found in blood contain a large amount of growth factors, which are proteins that facilitate the healing process following an injury.

You may be wondering why professional treatment is necessary if our own blood has the power to heal musculoskeletal damage. While you do have growth factors in your blood, PRP injections provide an increased concentration of growth factors – 5 to 10 times more, to be exact. Here’s a brief overview of how PRP injections work:

1. A small blood sample is taken from the patient.
2. The blood sample is processed in a machine called a centrifuge to increase the concentration of growth factor-rich platelets and separate them from other blood components.
3. The concentrated platelets are injected directly into the injured area of the patient, sometimes with a blend of anesthetic to help dull pain.

PRP injection therapy is recognized as a safe and natural treatment method, as it is drug-free and the patient’s own blood is used.

For some, PRP injections may help speed recovery and reduce pain from a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, such as Achilles tendonitis, jumper’s knee, ligament tears, muscle strains, knee sprains, and osteoarthritis. However, more research is still needed to fully understand the overall effectiveness of PRP injections for certain conditions. If you are curious about PRP injections and whether or not they may benefit you, be sure to speak with an orthopedic physician.

PRP injections at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine

Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group – a division of Florida Medical Clinic – is the longest running orthopedic practice in the Tampa area and the premier local provider of musculoskeletal care. Our practice is led by two renowned and board-certified specialists: orthopedic sports medicine surgeon Dr. Daniel Murphy and sports medicine physician Dr. Arnold Ramirez. Working alongside a team of experienced professionals, Dr. Murphy and Dr. Ramirez provide the latest advances in care, including PRP injections, stem cell therapy, viscosupplementation, and other advanced methods.

If you live in the Tampa area and would like to consult with one of our specialists about the effectiveness PRP injections and whether or not they may be right for you, contact us today. You may also reserve an appointment online at your convenience. Our professionals will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our services, treatments, and accepted insurances.