Foot and Ankle Institute of Maryland

What is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

Mar 01, 2023

PRP/PRGF Therapy: Regenerative Medicine for Musculoskeletal Injuries

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) is a revolutionary form of regenerative medicine that harnesses the healing properties of platelets and plasma to treat injuries. Administered through injections, PRP/PRGF therapy has become a popular non-invasive treatment at the Foot and Ankle Institute of Maryland for patients in Annapolis, Baltimore, Delaware,  Columbia and Severna Park Maryland, and surrounding areas. This article explores the benefits of PRP/PRGF therapy for musculoskeletal conditions and provides insight into the treatment process.

What Is PRP/PRGF Therapy? PRP/PRGF therapy involves extracting a blood sample from the patient, which is then centrifuged to separate the platelets and plasma rich in growth factors. The concentrated PRP/PRGF is then injected back into the injured site, delivering growth factors that promote cell growth and repair, and enhance the body's natural healing process.

Conditions Treated with PRP/PRGF Injections: PRP/PRGF therapy has shown remarkable results, particularly in treating musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, including:

  1. Tendon Injuries: PRP/PRGF therapy effectively addresses chronic tendon injuries like  Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis by promoting tendon cell proliferation and reducing inflammation.

  2. Acute Injuries: Sprains, strains, and muscle tears common in sports injuries can benefit from PRP/PRGF therapy, accelerating recovery.

  3. Osteoarthritis: Patients with ankle osteoarthritis can experience relief as PRP/PRGF offers anti-inflammatory properties and supports cartilage regrowth.

What to Expect from a PRP/PRGF Session? A PRP/PRGF session involves precision-guided injections performed by highly trained physicians. The procedure is relatively painless, but patients can discuss the need for additional numbing or sedatives with their specialist. Dressing appropriately to allow easy access to the treatment area is recommended.

PRP/PRGF Injection Process: The PRP/PRGF injection process typically includes the following steps:

  1. Blood Sample Extraction: A blood sample is collected via a needle and transferred to a special syringe.
  2. Centrifugation: The sample is centrifuged to separate the plasma rich in platelets from other components.
  3. Injection: The PRP/PRGF is injected into the targeted area using ultrasound guidance for precision and effectiveness.

PRP/PRGF Therapy Costs: The cost of PRP/PRGF therapy varies depending on the specific application and the number of required sessions. After a comprehensive assessment, a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs and recovery goals is discussed and agreed upon with the doctor.

Potential Side Effects: PRP/PRGF therapy is generally safe and effective due to its autologous nature, using substances sourced from the patient's body. Risks such as bleeding, infection, or nerve injury are common to all injections and minimized through ultrasound-guided precision. Patients with certain conditions, such as leukemia, blood-born cancer, or active Lyme infection in a joint, may not be eligible for the procedure. Full disclosure of medical history and allergies during the consultation is essential for informed decision-making.

Recovery Time: Post-injection rehabilitation protocols are recommended by the doctor immediately after each PRP/PRGF session. The treatment aims to provide regenerative therapy, gradually healing and restoring musculoskeletal integrity over several months. The process is not meant to mask pain temporarily but rather to address the injury at its source, preventing re-injury and providing long-term relief.

Conclusion: PRP/PRGF therapy is a revolutionary regenerative medicine that offers a non-surgical and effective solution for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Patients seeking pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life can benefit from this innovative treatment, administered by the experienced team at Foot and Ankle Institute of Maryland. Prioritizing patient comfort and recovery, PRP/PRGF therapy holds promise as a cutting-edge approach to musculoskeletal healing.