About Platelet-Rich Plasma/Fibrin-Matrix Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), or Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM), therapy is a minimally invasive, non-surgical therapy option that has been around since the early 2000's. It is thought to promote your body's natural healing abilities by utilizing your own blood platelets to release growth factors and potentially relieve pain. Since PRP is prepared from your own blood, there is little to no concern of rejection or infection.
PRP/PRFM consists of a concentrated solution of platelets, growth factors, signaling molecules and other proteins that play vital roles in orchestrating healing responses and tissue regeneration. The therapuetic benefit of PRP/PRFM has been shown in several clinical studies for back pain and knee osteoarthritis (see research references below), offering pain relief within weeks of administration.
Speak to an Axiom Network Physician to learn more about PRP/PRFM and if you are a good candidate.
How it Works
1
Extraction
After identifying the tailored PRP/PRFM solution needed to treat your pain, a simple blood sample is drawn and run through a centrifuge which separates the blood from contaminants.
2
Platelet Concentration
Plasma, which contains the beneficial platelets, is collected and further refined to concentrate these vital platelets and restorative components.
3
Activation
The final, personalized PRP/PRFM solution is then injected in the joint space or soft tissues where the concentrated platelets and activated growth factors stimulate the body’s healing response.
4
Relief
Some patients begin experiencing pain relief shortly after their first injection. The number of treatments depends on each individual patient and your physician's treatment plan. As with any injectable procedure, some patients may experience mild and temporary irritation, swelling, bruising, itching, discoloration or tenderness at the injection site.
Platelet-Rich Plasma has been used by physicians in the following applications:
- Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Ligament sprains and tears
- Tendonitis and tendinosis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow
- Degenerative disc or joint disease