Platelet Rich Plasma Injections (PRP)
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What are they?
- Platelets are cells contained in the blood. They are extracted from the blood and injected into injured areas
- How do they work?
- Platelets are thought to release multiple healing factors. It is thought that these factors may stimulate injured tissue to heal
- Is there any evidence?
- There is positive evidence for a number of different pathologies. The total evidence base is probably best described as unsure. There are well designed studies in progress for a definitive answer
- What are they used for?
- PRP has been trialled in many conditions including tendon disorders, joint cartilage lesions, bone healing and intraoperative tendon repairs. QSports is only injecting tendinopathies at present
- How is it done?
- An assessment is made for suitability for the injections. Patients must be off anti-inflammatories
- Blood is taken from the arm
- The blood is centrifuged into layers
- A specific layer is then extracted and activated
- Area of concern is given local anaesthetic
- Under US guidance the PRP is injected
- Are there any side effects?
- Some people get a short term acute flare
- The pain of the local anaesthetic injection
- When do I feel better?
- It takes some where between 2-6 weeks to take effect. Sometimes more than 1 is required
- Can I get more information?
Click for informtion on how to book a PRP treatment course under guidance from Qsports Medicine Practitioners
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