PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy is a revolutionary form of treatment that has steadily gained popularity in recent decades, especially in orthopedics. Athletes are among the earliest recipients of PRP therapy for orthopedic pain and sports injuries. For the right candidate, PRP therapy can assist with a faster recovery and better healing.
If you are thinking about PRP therapy and wondering how long the effects of treatment last, continue reading to find out.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
First, let’s talk about how PRP therapy works. A blood sample is taken from the patient in a similar fashion to a blood draw. Then, it is processed in a centrifuge to separate the blood’s components from the plasma and platelets. The result is a highly concentrated, platelet-rich plasma, significantly higher than what your body would naturally send to a site of injury in a normal situation.
The doctor then injects the platelet-rich plasma into the site of injury to promote neovascularization of the building of new blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown PRP treatments are most effective in the healing of tendon injuries, such as tendonitis or torn tendons.
How Long Do The Results of PRP Therapy Last?
The answer to this question is “it depends.” Clinical studies have shown results can last as long as nine months after treatment. However, there are variables that can affect the duration of treatment effectiveness, such as how your body responds to PRP injections, the severity of your condition, and how well you follow your post-treatment instructions and accompanying physical therapy.
Severe and complex orthopedic conditions, poor health of the patient, and lack of a physical therapy program can affect how long the positive results of PRP therapy last. This may be remedied by receiving maintenance PRP injections routinely, which can help prolong the results of treatment. Doctors usually recommend three sessions within a six-month period for many patients.
Most patients who receive PRP therapy can experience a marked improvement in symptoms within two to three weeks after their initial treatment session, with additional benefits continuing over time as healing progresses. In addition to providing relief from pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions, many patients also report feeling improved mobility after receiving PRP treatments due to its ability to promote tissue regeneration, which means the body can rebuild healthy tissue faster, which allows for a quicker recovery time, and possibly helps patients avoid surgery. This means that not only do you get immediate symptom relief but also long-term improvements in orthopedic function.
PRP Therapy in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes, FL
Total Orthopaedic Care offers PRP therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment program for orthopedic disorders and injuries. Our board-certified orthopedic doctors will examine your condition and determine if PRP therapy is right for you. In addition, we also advise you on ways to prolong the results of PRP therapy. We maintain open communication with all our patients and practice patient-centric care.
To schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (954) 735-3535 or use our convenient online request form.