Derived from a patient’s own blood, platelet rich plasma therapy is a concentrated source of growth platelets that’s been shown to play a significant role in the body’s healing capabilities, and as such, is the future of stem cell medicine.

1. Orthopedic Stem Cell Therapy: An Overview
One of the most promising and talked-about areas in the orthopedic medical field today is PRP,
or platelet rich plasma, therapy. And because this type of stem cell therapy approach addresses
and acts upon two of the most important initial stages of bone and tissue injuries, PRP is
proving to be the future of orthopedic and sports medicine. But just what is PRP therapy, and
what makes it such a unique and effective treatment method?
What is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?
Platelet rich plasma therapy utilizes a concentration of platelet cells created from the patient’s
own blood. Known for their clotting properties, platelets actually serve a variety of purposes.
Along with liquid plasma, platelets contain properties that are essential for the cell recruitment
and specialization utilized by the body during healing from injury and damage.
For PRP therapy, a blood sample is taken from the patient. That blood is then placed into a
centrifuge, which separates the patient’s blood into its various components. The platelet rich
plasma is then collected, treated, and prepared to be administered back to the patient. PRP is
administered via an injection at the site of injury, swelling or pain. Some physicians prefer to use
ultrasound guidance for a more precise administration.
After a PRP injection has been administered, a physician will offer the patient specific
instructions, which often include rest and avoiding exercise or strenuous movement in that
particular area for a short period of time.
Is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy Effective?
Recent medical research and advancements all point to the effectiveness and potential of PRP
injections. Studies on soft tissue injuries, Achilles tendon injuries, calf muscle injuries, and
autoimmune patients have shown that the platelet rich therapy had a positive effect on healing
time, pain levels and strength.
This research has been a catalyst to the widespread use of PRP therapy by physicians all over
the country to treat a variety of injuries and conditions. Among the different things being treated

2. with PRP injections are tendonitis, tennis elbow, ligament and muscle injuries, acute and
chronic tendon pain and problems, osteoarthritis lupus, fibromyalgia, rotator cuff injuries and
RA.
Another benefit to using platelet rich therapy to treat pain, injuries and recurring conditions is the
fact that is a low risk procedure. Because it is created from the patient’s own blood, there is
minimal risk for the injection to cause an adverse reaction.
Preparing for a PRP Injection
If you are preparing for your first platelet rich plasma injection, there are a few things you should
keep in mind. Make sure you research your physician carefully, and select one that has
experience with PRP therapy. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and bring a list of any
medications you are currently taking, along with any pertinent information about your injury or
condition.
Derived from a patient’s own blood, platelet rich plasma therapy is a concentrated source of
growth platelets that’s been shown to play a significant role in the body’s healing capabilities,
and as such, is the future of stem cell medicine.
For more information visit us at http://www.stemcellorthopedic.com