Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentration of platelets made from a person’s own blood. The blood is drawn from the patient and then centrifuged and concentrated. It is re-injected into the damaged tissues where it stimulates the body’s natural healing process and rebuilds healthy tissues. 

While there are many uses for PRP, it tends to be most popular among sports athletes. Rather than having to undergo extensive surgery, athletes can use PRP to activate their body’s natural healing system and repair injuries. 

Our sports medicine physicians typically recommend PRP to treat the following injuries and pains: 

• Pulled hamstring muscles 
• Rotator cuff injuries
• Achilles tendonitis 
• Jumper’s knee
• Plantar fasciitis 
• Tennis elbow 

Why Do Athletes Prefer PRP Over Other Procedures? 

PRP therapy has become increasingly popular over recent years, particularly for soft tissue injuries. Athletes agree that this alternative therapy restores quality of life and performance. Here are some of the reasons why athletes prefer PRP over other invasive procedures: 

• Platelet-rich plasma injections are safe and do not affect endurance or stamina. 
• Few risks exist with PRP. Most of the time, the only side effects are localized pain at the injection site. This is far better than surgery, which often comes with pain, limited mobility and long recovery times.
• No long-term rest or rehabilitation is required for PRP. Healing typically takes a few weeks, and rarely, up to a few months. This allows athletes to get back to doing what they love. 

How Effective is Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy? 

There are many ongoing studies looking at the effectiveness of PRP. At this point, the research we have is limited, but it does show promising results. In addition to the research we have available, we also have our own experiences. 

At Jersey Rehab, our sports medicine doctors have seen tremendous results from using PRP. In fact, we often advocate the use of PRP to treat arthritis and other degenerative joint conditions. Athletes and sports enthusiasts have had great success with this treatment option, and it’s far less invasive as other procedures. 

To learn more about PRP injections and how they can help you, contact Jersey Rehab at one of our three offices.