PRP

What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?

PRP is a form of regenerative medicine that taps into the natural healing powers found in your blood. Your blood contains many cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Each of these cells performs specific functions in your body.

Platelets are best known for their ability to stop the bleeding of your cuts and scrapes. In addition to blood clotting, platelets also contain specialized cells and growth factors that heal your wounds. 

PRP contains a high concentration of these specific healing properties. During treatment, your provider at Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center injects PRP directly into your diseased or damaged tissue to accelerate the healing process, reduce inflammation and pain, and restore function. 

Am I a good candidate for PRP?

The experienced team at Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center determines if you’re a good candidate for PRP during a consultation. PRP is often used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as:

• Arthritis
• Chronic tendinopathy
• Tendinitis
• Muscle sprains

The team may also recommend PRP for the management of your rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation and pain. 

Though PRP offers many benefits, the team may recommend conservative medical treatments first, such as anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. If conservative measures fail to improve your symptoms, then PRP may be suggested. 

What can I expect during PRP treatment?

The specifics of your PRP treatment may depend on your diagnosis. The team at Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center reviews the details of your PRP treatment plan during your consultation, so you know what to expect and how to prepare. 

The team first takes a sample of blood from your arm, which is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the other components in your blood. Once ready, your provider injects the PRP directly into your diseased or damaged tissue. The team may provide a local anesthetic before the injection to ease any discomfort.

You don’t need downtime after your PRP treatment. However, the team may suggest activity modification based on your specific health and healing needs. 

Because the healing process takes time, you may not notice an improvement in your symptoms until several weeks after your injection. 

To learn more about PRP, call Pleasanton Arthritis and Osteoporosis Medical Center or schedule a consultation using the online booking tool today.