Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a new therapy that has shown promising results for improving and restoring our bodies soft-tissues and cartilage. Recent studies have shown these injections to have significant benefit in the treatment of chronic tendonitis (for example, lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow), and osteoarthritis of the knee. Specifically, in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee, PRP injections have show to decrease pain and improve function following the injection. As we live our lives, our muscles, tendons, and cartilage are under continuous stress which causes a natural breakdown and deterioration of these tissues over time. In response to these microscopic injuries, our bodies will naturally deliver platelets to the site of injury. Packed with growth factors, platelets initiate repair of our tissues through the recruitment of stem cells. Platelet-rich plasma therapy harnesses this natural healing process by delivering a high concentration of platelets to the desired location of injury.
To create PRP therapy, a small sample of your blood is drawn and placed in a centrifuge that spins the blood at high speeds, separating the platelets from the other components. The concentrated platelet rich plasma (PRP) is then injected into and around the point of injury, jump-starting and significantly strengthening the body’s natural healing process. Because your own blood is used, there is no risk of a transmissible infection.
Dr. Arthur currently administers PRP injections at the Maple Grove office.
