If you have recently experienced a tendon injury, you may be exploring treatment options to aid in your recovery. One approach is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. In this blog, we explain the effectiveness of PRP injections for tendon tears or tendinopathy and whether this treatment could be the solution you've been seeking.
Understanding PRP Injections
It is important to have a thorough understanding of PRP injections. This procedure involves the extraction of a small blood sample, which is then processed to concentrate the platelets. Subsequently, the platelet-rich plasma is injected into the affected area to facilitate the healing process. The growth factors contained in platelets enhance tissue repair and regeneration, rendering PRP injections a potentially effective treatment for a range of injuries, such as tendon tears. If you are interested in PRP therapy, you should consult a doctor to determine if it's suitable for your condition and to understand its potential benefits and limitations.
Preparation of PRP
PRP is prepared through a meticulous process to extract and concentrate platelets from your own blood. The following steps outline the preparation of PRP:
Collection of Blood: A sample of blood is drawn using a sterile technique.
Centrifugation: The collected blood is then placed in a centrifuge machine, which spins at high speeds to separate the components of blood based on density. This procedure may be repeated with different speeds depending on the condition being treated.
Separation of Layers: The centrifugation process results in the separation of the blood into distinct layers, with the platelet-rich plasma being isolated in the middle layer.
Extraction: The platelet-rich plasma layer is carefully extracted from the tube using a sterile syringe or pipette.
Activation: In some cases, the PRP may be activated using calcium chloride or another activating agent to release growth factors from the platelets. Also, depending on the type of PRP required to treat the condition, the collection tube may contain a special separator gel.
Final Product: The final product obtained after preparation is a concentrated solution of platelets suspended in plasma, ready to be injected.
Injecting PRP Technique
After your PRP has been prepared, the doctor will proceed with the injection process. Here is what you can expect:
Sterilisation: The injection site will be cleaned thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.
Anaesthesia: In some cases, a local anaesthetic may be used to numb the area before the injection.
Injection under ultrasound guidance: Using a fine needle, the doctor will carefully inject the PRP into the targeted area. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during this process. Ultrasound is used to visualise the needle for an accurate injection.
Post-Injection Care: After the injection, the doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the injection site and what activities to avoid.
It is important to follow any post-injection guidelines provided by your doctor to ensure the best possible outcome from your PRP treatment.
Efficacy in Tendon Repair
Research on the efficacy of PRP injections for tendon injuries has shown promising results. Studies indicate that PRP may enhance the healing process by reducing inflammation, promoting collagen production, and improving blood flow to the injured tendon. This regenerative approach aims to accelerate recovery and potentially restore function to the affected tendon significantly.
Moreover, PRP injections are considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure, with minimal risk of adverse effects since the plasma is derived from the patient's blood, reducing the likelihood of rejection or allergic reactions.
What Does The Medical Evidence Show Regarding PRP Treatment For Tendon Problems?
PRP has been explored as a treatment for chronic Achilles tendinopathy (AT), a condition that causes pain and swelling above the Achilles tendon. Research shows that PRP injections can significantly reduce pain and improve tendon function, particularly at 6 and 12 weeks after treatment. Improvements in tendon thickness were also observed at 12 weeks. Overall, PRP has shown promise as an effective option for reducing discomfort and promoting functional recovery in patients with chronic AT.
PRP has been studied as a treatment for lateral epicondylitis (LE), commonly known as tennis elbow. Research indicates that while corticosteroid injections may provide better short-term pain relief and functional improvement, PRP offers superior long-term benefits. Patients treated with PRP experience better pain relief and functional recovery after six months, with improvements in both pain scores and elbow performance measures. PRP is thus a promising option for long-term management of LE, offering sustained pain reduction and functional improvement.
Is PRP Right for You?
While PRP injections offer a promising solution for tendon problems, it's essential to consult with a doctor to determine whether this treatment aligns with your specific condition and overall health status. Factors such as the extent of the tendon injury, your medical history, and any pre-existing conditions will influence the suitability of PRP injections.
Remember, the journey to recovery is unique for each individual, and the right treatment approach can make a significant difference in your healing process. Whether you are an athlete recovering from a sports-related tendon tear or an individual dealing with chronic tendon pain, consider the potential benefits of PRP injections and book an appointment online at ACTIVATE.
About the Author: Dr. Mustafa Alnaib MBChB, MRCS, MSc, FEBOT is an orthopaedic surgeon, musculoskeletal doctor and Clinic Director at ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic in Kent.
Comments