Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a new treatment used to treat pain from tendinitis, tendinosis and partial ligament sprains. It is not beneficial in the treatment of arthritis or complete tendon or ligament tears.
Two tablespoons of blood are taken from the patient and placed in a centrifuge. The inflammatory components of blood are separated from the healing components which are used to inject into the painful areas. The hope is to convert an inflammatory or delayed healing process into a more rapid healing process. Success is seen in 80 percent of patients and most patients have three injections although some stop at one.
Unlike cortisone injections which may have a deleterious effect on the strength of collagen if used in excess, PRP injections have no known downsides and seem to be appealing for many patients who are attracted to the idea of using their own tissue to heal themselves.
10/2008 L4/L5 Laminectomy with bilateral discectomy and foraminotomy.
3/2010 >C6|C7< ACDF using a piece of my pelvic bone.
I suppose it could be worse, I could be laying on a grass mat somewhere in the middle of the Amazon with a witchdoctor chanting over me.
Must be!
10/2008 L4/L5 Laminectomy with bilateral discectomy and foraminotomy.
3/2010 >C6|C7< ACDF using a piece of my pelvic bone.
I suppose it could be worse, I could be laying on a grass mat somewhere in the middle of the Amazon with a witchdoctor chanting over me.
I haven't heard of that but it sounds something like stem cells injections. If it works and was available to me I would try it. Actually I would try anything pretty well! Let's hope there's a cure around the corner for us.. Take care. Charry
Any answers I have is not medical advice only a Doctor can help you with that. Just sharing my personal experience as a fellow Spine Health member only. Mild DDD of complete lumbar area with recent healing of L5-S1 HD and annular tear.Leg &foot weakness nerve compression L4-L5.Mod. disc changes C5-C7 nerve impingement sore elbow and numb hand. Sept. 2011 MRI L4-L5 disc bulge and L5 facet joint and narrowing. Meds-Oxycontin 80mg,Cymbalta,Lyrica, Flexeril,Naproxen,Serax. Platinum Infrared heating pad. ER and Oncology trained and Cardiology RN on Disability. Keep the faith.