PRP

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

Platelet-rich plasma is a treatment that uses the body’s own ability to heal itself to either restart or speed up the recovery process.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?

There are many cells in our blood. The include the red blood cell, the white blood cell and the platelet. The liquid that the cells are in is called plasma. The platelet cells are more commonly known for clotting but they also initiate the healing process in our body be releasing a lot of factors called growth factors. These factors help guide the bodies healing process by recruiting stem cells the area to help coordinate healing.

What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and what are PRP injections?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) takes a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to accelerate the healing of injured tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints. PRP injections are prepared by a tube of your own blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. These activated platelets are then injected directly into your injured or diseased area. The platelet’s growth factors then stimulate and increase the number of repair cells in the injured location.
Dr. Faucett will often use ultrasound imaging to ensure that the injection is placed in the correct spot.

Where is PRP useful?

• PRP has also been demonstrated to improve function and reduce pain in the following conditions:
• Core Injury
• Gluteal Tendonitis
• Hamstring Tendonitis
• Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
• Golfers’ elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Knee Osteoarthritis
• Hip Osteoarthritis

Some of the key advantages of PRP injections are that they can reduce the need for anti-inflammatories or stronger medications like narcotics. In addition, the side effects of PRP injections are few because the injections use your own bloods so there is no risk of rejection or allergic reaction to them.

At a Glance

Dr. Scott Faucett

• Internationally Recognized Orthopedic Surgeon
• Voted Washingtonian Top Doctor
• Ivy League Educated & Fellowship-Trained
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