PRP

The healing process often takes more time than you anticipate, preventing you from enjoying your favorite activities. At his orthopedic clinic in Munster, Indiana, Nikhil Pandhi, D.O., M.P.H., offers platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for patients hoping to speed up the recovery process. This natural substance in your blood contains healing growth factors that may stimulate holistic recovery. Call the office or book an appointment online today to learn more about the benefits of PRP.

What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is a component in your blood that contains proteins and growth factors that may accelerate the healing process. Plasma is the liquid part of your blood, while platelets are solids that can trigger tissue repair, promote clotting, and stimulate cell reproduction.

When injected into wounded areas, damaged tissues, or poorly healed injuries, PRP can help support your body’s healing for a faster recovery.

What conditions can PRP address?

PRP therapy can help heal many types of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, including:

Knee pain

PRP can help repair damage in the knee joint’s components — bone, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. If you have an injury that hasn’t healed properly or existing scar tissue, PRP may help stimulate the healing process.

Shoulder pain

As a ball-and-socket joint, the shoulder is vulnerable to injury and wear-and-tear. The cartilage that protects the joint can break down, while the rotator cuff (a group of tissues that supports and stabilizes the joint) may tear and become inflamed. PRP uses growth factors to rebuild these tissues and relieve pain.

Achilles tendonitis

The Achilles tendon stretches from the back of the ankle through the calf. It’s the longest tendon in the human body, vulnerable to injury and damage.

Elbow pain

The tendons outside and inside the elbow can stretch and tear, limiting movement in your arm. PRP injections stimulate tissue repair in the damaged elbow.

What can I expect from PRP?

PRP injections take only a few minutes. First, Dr. Pandhi collects your PRP by drawing your blood. He places the sample in a centrifuge, which spins the blood to isolate the PRP for the highest concentration of platelets. Next, he injects the PRP directly into your injury site with ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance.

Many patients experience mild soreness and bruising at the injection site, but these side effects should subside within a few days.

How many PRP treatments will I need?

Every treatment plan is unique and depends on the severity of your condition, but most patients need at least three treatments spaced two weeks apart. 

After completing your course of treatment, Dr. Pandhi assesses your progress to determine whether you need additional treatments.

Call Nikhil Pandhi, D.O., M.P.H., today or book an appointment online to learn more about PRP.