Bridge Health Clinic
A New Approach to Healthcare
PRP Therapy (Platelet Rich Plasma)
PRP therapy is a medical technique that involves using a patient's enriched plasma, containing a higher concentration of platelets and growth factors, to promote tissue healing and regeneration.
Is PRP right for me?
Plasma-rich therapy (PRP) offers a versatile approach to addressing various medical concerns, with its potential applications ranging from musculoskeletal issues to dermatological conditions. PRP might be for you if you suffer from any of the following:
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Chronic joint pain
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Osteoarthritis
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Tendonitis
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Ligament injuries
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Muscle strains
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Tennis elbow
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Plantar fasciitis
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Rotator cuff injuries
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Achilles tendon injuries
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Acne scarring
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Wrinkles and fine lines
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Hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
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Tissue regeneration after certain surgeries or procedures
How does PRP work?
Understanding PRP's function relies on grasping platelets' role in healing. Platelets, acting as the body's initial responders, aid in clotting and prompt healing after injuries. Apart from clotting, platelets contain growth factors that stimulate cell reproduction, triggering tissue regeneration and healing in treated areas, which is valuable for chronic conditions. To create platelet-rich plasma, clinicians centrifuge a patient's blood sample, isolating and concentrating platelets within the plasma, which is then injected into the affected site.
How is the procedure done?
Plasma-rich therapy (PRP) works by utilizing the body's own enriched plasma, which contains a higher concentration of platelets and growth factors, to stimulate tissue healing, repair, and regeneration. The process works like this:
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Preparation: A small sample of the patient's blood is drawn, typically from their arm.
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Centrifugation: The blood sample is then placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins rapidly to separate its components based on their densities. This process isolates the plasma, which is the liquid portion of the blood.
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Extraction: The separated plasma, now rich in platelets and growth factors, is collected for use.
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Application: The concentrated plasma, known as PRP, is then carefully injected into the targeted area requiring treatment. This could be a joint, tendon, muscle, or even the skin, depending on the condition being addressed.
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Activation: In some cases, the PRP may be activated before injection. Activation typically involves exposing the PRP to calcium chloride or another activating agent, which triggers the release of growth factors from the platelets.
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Healing and Regeneration: The growth factors and other bioactive proteins in the PRP work to stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and encourage the body's natural healing and regenerative processes. This can lead to enhanced healing of injuries, improved tissue health, and in some cases, the promotion of collagen production for skin rejuvenation.
It's important to note that PRP's effectiveness can vary based on factors like the individual's condition, overall health, and the specific treatment protocol. While PRP has shown promising results in many cases, more research is ongoing to determine its full range of applications and optimal usage guidelines.