What is PRP?

PRP is Platelet-Rich Plasma.

 A small sample of your blood is collected and placed into a centrifuge.

 The centrifuge separates the different parts of your blood.

 The platelet-rich portion is collected.

What are platelets?

Platelets are tiny cells that circulate in your bloodstream.

Their first job is to help stop bleeding.

Their second job is to release signalling proteins that help organize tissue repair after an injury.

Think of platelets as construction managers, they don't become new tendon or cartilage themselves, instead they tell the repair crew where to go and when to start working.

What are signalling proteins?

Signalling proteins are released by platelets, which act like text messages between cells. Some tell cells to divide, some encourage new blood vessels, some help attract repair cells, some influence collagen production. These signals are already part of normal healing.

If my body already has platelets, why would I use PRP?

Imagine trying to repair a section of highway with only three workers. Now imagine sending hundreds of workers instead. The repair process may become more organized and efficient.

Instead of relying only on the number of platelets normally circulating through an area, PRP increases the number of natural healing signals available where they are needed.

Does PRP instantly replace damaged tissue?

No, PRP is not an instant fix and it does not instantly rebuild damaged structures.

PRP provides signalling molecules that may help support the body's own repair response.

If your injury is older than 12 weeks it will take longer for the healing process to occur. In longstanding injuries, chronic tissue changes may influence the body's repair response and the time required for improvement. The damage from this injury did not happen overnight, and it cannot be repaired overnight either.

Results vary depending on the severity of the injury, the type of tissue, how long the injury has been present, overall health and many other factors.

Does PRP hurt? Why does the treatment area sometimes feel worse before it feels better?

Most people describe PRP injections as uncomfortable rather than painful, although this varies depending on the area. It is also common for the treatment area to feel more sore for a few days afterward. PRP is intended to provide concentrated platelet-derived signalling factors at the treatment site, which can cause temporary soreness and inflammation. As that process begins, temporary inflammation may occur before improvement is noticed. It will be explained to you what is considered a normal response and what symptoms should prompt you to seek medical attention.

Can PRP regrow cartilage or cure arthritis?

PRP is not a cure for arthritis, and it should not be expected to completely regrow damaged cartilage. PRP has been studied for its potential effects on pain and function in a range of musculoskeletal conditions. Individual response varies considerably. The degree of improvement varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of joint changes, overall health, activity level, and rehabilitation, as well as adherence to protocol instructions.

What are the differences between PRP, and other treatments my regular doctor may prescribe?

Although all four treatments may be be used for joint or soft tissue conditions, they work in very different ways and are intended to achieve different goals.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses concentrated platelets from your own blood to deliver natural signalling factors that support the body's healing response. PRP uses a concentrated platelet fraction prepared from the patient's own blood. Because the material is autologous, its risk profile differs from injected medications; however, injection-related and procedure-specific risks remain.

Other treatments your regular doctor may use might include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications used to reduce pain and inflammation. These can provide symptom relief during flare-ups, but they are not intended to repair or regenerate damaged tissues.

• Lubricating injections which provide cushioning within the joint and help reduce symptoms. These injections may provide symptom management by coating the joint surface rather than stimulating tissue repair.

Our clinic focuses on therapies that aim to educate the individual on how best to support the body's natural healing processes whenever appropriate. During your consultation, we'll discuss the current evidence, the risks, potential benefits and limitations so that you can make evidence-informed decisions about your health.