A Sports Medicine Doctor Answers PRP Treatment FAQs

In sports medicine, pain management is critical. If you are an active athlete, you will likely encounter pain and injuries. You will want to get back in the game as quickly as possible. When traditional methods, such as medication and surgery, are ineffective, PRP treatment is a possibility. A doctor or therapist could recommend this procedure as a way to repair an injury or help you overcome a troubling condition. You can find out more about this process and what it entails.

An explanation of plasma

In the human body, blood contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The liquid part of blood is called plasma. This liquid lets the other parts of the blood move through the body. The blood then delivers nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. Plasma itself consists of proteins, water, and salts.

An understanding of PRP shots

Platelet-rich plasma injections are becoming increasingly more common in sports medicine. Professional athletes are turning to this method to speed up healing times and recover from injuries. The doctor will first separate the plasma from the other blood components in a machine. The doctor will numb the patient and then inject the plasma into the affected area of the body. In most situations, the doctor will give the patient multiple injections. This often occurs directly into a muscle.

Other factors

A PRP shot in sports medicine is a quick and hassle-free procedure. For most athletes, this process only takes 30 minutes or less. There could be several rounds of shots, days or weeks apart. Some doctors will use an ultrasound to ensure that the shot is accurately hitting the correct area of the body. Because a local anesthetic is used, the patient should not feel pain or discomfort during the procedure.

Treating a variety of sports medicine-related injuries

Athletes encounter a wide range of injuries. These can take place in practices, workouts, and competition. Some of these injuries can linger for weeks, months, or even years. PRP injections commonly treat ongoing issues such as tendonitis. Many athletes have joint pain, especially in the knees, neck, or shoulders. People have reported pain relief in these areas from PRP injections.

The results

The effectiveness of these shots will vary from athlete to athlete. Success factors can include the severity of the person’s injury, the area of the injury, and whether the individual has other health conditions. PRP shots can help improve athletes’ mobility and range of motion. Athletes who undergo this treatment can have improved flexibility. The injections may help in the healing process of tendons and ligaments. This treatment is also a viable way for athletes to manage pain.

A different way to overcome injuries

If you have been injured on the field of play, you want to do everything you can to return to action. Being sidelined because of an injury can be frustrating. The good news is that a sports medicine doctor can help you heal. If you are not satisfied with traditional therapies and approaches, talk to your doctor about platelet-rich plasma therapy. Consider this method to achieve the health you want.

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