If you’re dealing with chronic pain or a lingering injury that won’t heal, you might have heard about platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. This revolutionary treatment has (rightfully so) gained popularity for its ability to tap into the body’s natural healing process.
But is PRP right for you?
Dr. David Wu and our team at CurePain are here to answer that question.
PRP injections use your blood to promote healing. The process involves drawing a small blood sample, spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma, and then injecting the concentrated platelets back into the injured area.
Because platelets contain growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, PRP can effectively reduce inflammation and speed up healing.
We use PRP injections for a wide range of pain conditions, including:
You may also benefit from PRP if you have lingering post-surgical pain.
PRP is an incredibly versatile treatment, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s a closer look at who the ideal candidate is.
The most common reason we recommend PRP injections is to treat musculoskeletal conditions that haven’t responded to other treatments. Many of our PRP patients have tried physical therapy, medications, and/or cortisone injections and haven’t found relief.
PRP injections may also be right for you if you want a natural alternative to surgery or long-term medication use. PRP harnesses your body’s healing ability, making it an appealing option for those seeking to avoid invasive and risky procedures.
PRP injection candidates are also in good health and have realistic goals for treatment. PRP doesn’t work instantly — improvement happens gradually over weeks or months as your body repairs itself.
If you’re considering PRP injections, here’s what you can expect.
You start with a consultation. Dr. Wu assesses your conditions, reviews your medical history, and determines if PRP is right for you.
If you’re a candidate, the next step is to take a small sample of your blood and spin it in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets. Then, we inject PRP into your injury, typically with the help of ultrasound guidance.
Most experience mild swelling or discomfort at the injection site, but you typically get back to your regular activities within a day or two. Healing and pain relief occur gradually over several weeks.
PRP injections are an exciting, natural treatment option for many types of pain and injuries. If you’ve been struggling with chronic pain and want to explore alternatives to surgery or medication, PRP should be at the top of your list.
The best way to know if you’re a candidate is to talk with our specialists. Call our friendly staff or use our online booking tool to schedule your PRP consultation at our Torrance, California, office today.
