More Evidence for Platelet Rich Plasma Use in Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee Osteoarthritis Knee Osteoarthritis

Regenerative medical researchers in Barcelona, Spain are investigating new treatments, such as PRP, for osteoarthritis (OA) that address the underlying disease pathology rather than simply treat symptoms. The goal is to improve quality of life and physical function in persons with osteoarthritis. There currently is no curative approach for the millions of people with OA. Treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is commonly prescribed but many people, especially the elderly, have a high risk of side effects with NSAIDs.

Recently autologous plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF), commonly called PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma in the US, rich in proteins, has been considered a promising regenerative approach to stimulate chondrocytes to produce more cartilage (Cartilage is destroyed in OA). PRGF has a high concentration of growth factors. These factors act specifically on the tissue to repair and heal and have been shown to stimulate (more…)

Platelet Rich Plasma Emerging as Effective Orthopedic Treatment

Effective Orthopedic Treatment
Effective Orthopedic Treatment

Image of a cell example for Platelet Rich Plasma

Effective Orthopedic Treatment

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is an emerging biologic tool in orthopedic and regenerative medicine. The PRP is obtained by drawing out a patient’s blood and spinning it down in a centrifuge, which concentrates the platelets in the blood.  The platelets can be concentrated up to 10X the baseline strength, and the plasma also contains cytokines, thrombin, and other growth factors that are indicated in wound healing (1). The PRP is then re-injected into the affected area by the physician according to the treatment plan and goals.

PRP can be used to treat tendons, ligaments, muscle tears, and joint pain (1). According to an article in the Journal of Arthroscopy, platelet-rich plasma may help speed recovery in sports medicine patients and enable them to return to their prior level of activity faster (1).  It can take weeks for repair of tissue to occur, but proper nutrition and physical therapy can also aid in this process. (more…)