Platelet rich plasma injection for shoulder, knee, hip pain

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) / Platelet-rich fibrin are treatments used to promote healing in injured joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They are commonly utilized in athletes and active individuals who aim to return to their sport or activity quickly. PRP / PRF are options for those seeking to avoid surgery or enhance their healing process after surgery.

Conditions that may benefit from PRP/ PRF injections include:

• Tendon and ligament injuries:

• Tendonitis (e.g., Achilles tendonitis, gluteal tendonitis, tennis elbow, patellar tendonitis)

• Tendon tears

• Trochanteric bursitis

• Ligament tears

• Hamstring or knee sprains

• Joint and cartilage issues:

• Cartilage damage

• Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis of the hip, knee, and shoulder)

PRP / PRF can also be used to support healing after certain surgeries, such as tendon repair, by promoting tissue regeneration.

PRP / PRF may not be recommended for patients with:

• Active infections

• Blood-borne conditions or malignancies

Platelet-rich plasma is a concentrated preparation of blood platelets, rich in growth factors that enhance healing. Platelet-rich fibrin is a concentrated preparation of platelets and fibrinous growth factors that add additional fibrin to enhance joint cushion support. The process involves the following steps:

1. Blood Draw:

• A small amount of your blood is drawn, similar to a routine blood test.

2. Centrifugation:

• The blood is spun at high speed in a specialized centrifuge to separate its components. This creates a concentrated “platelet-rich plasma” layer containing 5 to 10 times the normal concentration of growth factors and reparative properties.

3. Injection:

• PRP is injected into the damaged or diseased tissue as an outpatient procedure. The injection site is cleaned, and ultrasound guidance is often used to ensure accurate needle placement. A series of three injections over 3–6 weeks may be recommended for optimal healing.

At the site of injection, PRP releases growth factors that stimulate the multiplication of reparative cells, promoting tissue repair and recovery.

PRP is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home shortly afterward.

• Recovery:

• Mild pain or irritation at the injection site is common for 24–48 hours.

• Resting and avoiding strenuous activities for a day are recommended.

• Cold packs can be applied to alleviate discomfort.

PRP is generally safe since the preparation uses your own blood, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Rare complications may include:

• Temporary pain at the injection site

• Infection

• Tissue damage

• Injury to surrounding nerves

Choosing a skilled medical provider for the procedure can significantly reduce these risks.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses your own blood to help heal injuries and reduce pain. It works by boosting your body’s natural healing process, making it a popular option for people who want to recover faster without surgery or enhance healing after surgery.

• Tendon and ligament injuries, like:

• Tennis elbow

• Patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee)

• Achilles tendonitis

• Hamstring sprains or tears

• Knee and hip sprains

• Arthritis, including osteoarthritis of the hip, knee, and shoulder

• Cartilage damage

PRP / PRF can also help healing after surgery, like when repairing a torn tendon.

PRP might not be suitable for everyone. It’s generally avoided if you have:

• An active infection

• Certain blood conditions or cancers

Here’s what happens during a PRP treatment:

1. Blood Draw:

• A small amount of blood is taken from your arm, just like a regular blood test.

2. Preparation:

• The blood is placed in a special machine that spins it quickly to separate the platelets (the healing part of your blood) from the rest. This creates a concentrated mixture called “platelet-rich plasma.”

3. Injection:

• The PRP is injected directly into the area that needs healing. To ensure accuracy, the doctor may use ultrasound to guide the needle.

You may need a series of three injections over 3–6 weeks for the best results. PRP helps by releasing natural growth factors at the injury site, which encourages the repair of damaged tissues.

PRP is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home right after.

• Aftercare:

• You might feel some mild pain or irritation at the injection site for 1–2 days.

• Rest the treated area and avoid strenuous activities for a day.

• Using a cold pack can help with discomfort.

Most people resume their normal activities the next day, but your doctor may give you specific instructions based on your condition.

PRP is generally very safe because it uses your own blood, so there’s little risk of side effects or reactions. Rarely, some people may experience:

• Pain at the injection site

• Infection

• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves

These risks are minimal when the procedure is done by an experienced doctor.

PRP / PRF can be an effective, natural way to promote healing and get you back to doing what you love. If you have questions or want to know if PRP is right for you, talk to Dr. Linda Li @ 312-808-1200, Integrative Medical Pain Clinic at Chicago & Rockford.