What is a PRP treatment?

PPR is short of Platelet Rich Plasma. The patient’s own blood is drawn and the healing growth factors and cells are isolated into a rich plasma solution. This can then be injection to various muscles, tendons and joints to promote healing.

Does my insurance cover this procedure?

Unfortunately, not yet. Most insurance companies still consider this to be an experimental therapy, despite growing literature that confirms its effectiveness. Due to the extensive technology and expertise involved, this can be a costly treatment. Most facilities charge between 800-2000 dollars for a treatment. Pricing information is available through our scheduling office.

Why do you use ultrasound when administering PRP?

Ultrasound images give the physician direct visualization of the internal anatomy. By using this technology, physicians can help determine the exact cause of pain and inject medications with more accuracy.

How many injections do I need?

Depending on the exact problem, some patients will require up to three injections. Many patients, however, experience significant improvement after just one treatment.

I am told I need a knee replacement. Will this treatment help me avoid surgery?

Possibly. Depending on the extent of disease, PRP may in fact help knees recover from osteoarthritis. Several studies are currently under way to explore this question further.

Will this procedure hurt?

We use a local numbing medication to make this procedure as comfortable as possible. Despite this fact, it is not uncommon to experience aching pain for a few days following the procedure.

Are there any medications and activities I should avoid after a PRP injection?

Patients should avoid using anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen five days before the treatment and for the duration of treatments. These medications will counteract the effects of PRP. Activities may be limited, but this should be discussed on a case by case basis.

Is PRP the same as prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy works on the same theory as PRP in that it promotes inflammation and the activates the body’s own healing mechanism. With prolotherapy, sugar water is often injected to stimulate healing.