Whether you’re a professional athlete or an amateur, you’re liable to get musculoskeletal (orthopedic) injuries every once in a while. Athletes are always interested in the most natural and effective treatments to help them quickly get back in the game.
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma, and this treatment actually utilizes a small blood sample (taken via your arm, like a normal blood draw). Because PRP treatment harnesses your own blood cells, your body will not have an adverse reaction.
Let’s talk about the main benefits of PRP treatment, how it can be a key factor in your sports medicine regimen, and where you can go in Dallas for outstanding sports medicine.
What Is PRP Treatment?
Platelet-rich plasma comprises two main elements: plasma (the liquid portion of blood) and platelets (a clear blood cell that is responsible for clotting). Platelets contain growth factors that facilitate healing, so PRP infuses the area with a large dose of these properties to address the pain and damage associated with your sports injury.
To create your PRP treatment, your orthopedic physician or sports doctor will take the blood sample and place it into a machine called a centrifuge. The centrifuge will separate the platelets from the other blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and other components) and concentrate them within the plasma.
The PRP treatment is then injected directly into the site of injury to jumpstart the healing process.
Perhaps one of the best things about PRP treatment is how safe it is. Since the blood used in the treatment is your own, there is no risk of rejection, and little risk of infection.
What Sports Injuries and Conditions Can PRP Treat?
PRP therapy has been widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating chronic and acute musculoskeletal injuries, including those in the muscles and joints. Famous athletes have had PRP injections to treat their injuries and get back in the game faster.
Sports injuries and conditions that PRP can effectively treat include:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Foot and ankle injuries (e.g., sprains)
- Knee injuries (e.g., ACL injuries)
- Lumbar spine disc pain
- Patellar tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Shoulder pain and instability
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
What Are the PRP Treatment Benefits for Athletes?
There are many benefits of PRP therapy, including the following:
- Builds strength
- Carries minimal risk of allergic reaction or infection
- Eliminates the need for surgery in many cases
- Improves balance and coordination when healing a muscle or joint
- Increases flexibility and mobility
- Reduces pain and swelling
- Regenerates cartilage
- Speeds up postsurgical recovery
What Should You Expect in PRP Treatment?
If you’re a good candidate for PRP therapy, keep the following things in mind:
- It might take more than one treatment to make a full recovery.
- The results of the injection should begin to take effect within four to six weeks.
- Expect restrictions on your daily activities after the treatment. Avoid excess activity.
- Physical therapy is essential to a successful recovery. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a program tailored to your needs.
PRP Treatment in Dallas, TX
If you’re experiencing chronic pain in your joints or have other sports-related injuries, it is in your best interest to have a consultation with one of our sports medicine doctors here at Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine in Dallas. We offer PRP treatment and an extensive range of nonsurgical treatment options for a wide array of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
To learn more about PRP therapy, schedule an appointment by contacting us today at (972) 503-7272 or by filling out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
