Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections use a portion of the patient’s own blood to speed healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. This has been used successfully for various musculoskeletal problems including but not limited to muscle damage, tendon tears or inflammation and ligament sprains.

Platelet activation is a major factor in the process of wound and soft tissue healing. The use of platelet rich plasma (PRP), a portion of the patient’s own blood having a large platelet concentration, to promote healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints, can be applied to various musculoskeletal problems.

It was used as early as the 1990s in plastic surgery. PRP injections are prepared from the patient’s own blood with strict aseptic techniques. The activated platelets are spun in a centrifuge and then are injected into the abnormal tissue, releasing regenerative growth factors that recruit and increase the proliferation of reparative cells. Ultrasound imaging may or may not be used to guide the injection.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that PRP injections have improved function and decreased pain to various maladies, including – but not limited to – elbow, wrist, shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle tendonosis. There is increasing evidence showing beneficial results for osteoarthritis.

The side effects of PRP injections are almost zero as the patient is utilizing their own blood, to which they should have no reaction. Some relative rest is needed immediately following the procedure, then usually followed by a progressive stretching and strengthening program.

Contact Us

Alexander Center for Muscle and Joint Therapy

3887 Indianola Avenue
Columbus, OH 43214
P: 614-547-2020
F: 614-612-0580

Office Hours

Mon: 8-1, 3-6
Tues: 8-1, 3-6
Wed: 8-1, 3-6
Thurs: 8-1, 3-6