Platelet-rich plasma, often simply referred to as PRP, is a treatment that utilizes the body’s natural healing abilities to repair damaged tissues and restore proper function. It is commonly performed in sports medicine to treat acute soft tissue injuries, and can also be used to improve chronic conditions. It is a natural treatment with low-risk of complications, as the sample is collected from a patient’s own blood.

Platelet-rich plasma is prepared by drawing a sample of blood from a patient, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate it into different layers. After the centrifugation process isolates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood, such as the white and red blood cells and the platelet-poor plasma, this concentrated sample is then injected into the injured area. The platelet-rich plasma works to promote faster healing, utilizing the body’s inherent ability to heal itself.

PRP is a versatile treatment that can be used to heal many different injuries and conditions, including:

• Acute ligament and muscle injuries, such as muscle strains, ligament sprains, and overuse injuries
• Chronic tendon injuries, such as Achilles tendonitis and rotator cuff injuries
• Arthritis, including arthritis affecting the knees
• During surgery, to aid in the healing process
• Hair restoration, to thicken thinning hair, often used to treat alopecia

PRP can be used to treat virtually any area of the body, although is most commonly performed on the following areas:

• Knees
• Ankles
• Wrists
• Shoulders
• Feet
• Elbows
• Back/Spine
• Scalp

As PRP therapy is a developing field, more uses for it are being discovered each year. As this research expands, more clinical tests are being performed, with new treatments becoming available on a regular basis. The potential applications for PRP injections are nearly limitless, as the treatment uses the body’s innate healing ability to repair damaged tissues with the patient’s own supply of blood. This is known as an autologous treatment.

The effects of platelet-rich plasma injections depend upon a number of factors, including the area being treated, the severity of the condition or injury and the patient’s individual physiology and overall health. The benefits of PRP therapy for each patient will be unique, meaning that two different patients receiving the same treatment for the same condition can experience greatly different results. On average, results tend to last about 12 months, which gradually decline as the aging process continues.

If you or someone you know has suffered a soft tissue injury, come to Suburban Healthcare Associates for treatment today. Our kind and compassionate professionals are experienced in treating a wide number of injuries and conditions with PRP injections and can help you heal in ways you never thought possible. Visit our office today to receive your PRP treatment in our state-of-the-art medical facility! Schedule an appointment online, or call Suburban Healthcare Associates today. We serve patients from Naperville IL, Plainfield IL, Joliet IL, Romeoville IL, Shorewood IL, Crest Hill IL and Aurora IL.