PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma, and it is a form of regenerative medicine that has been used in the treatment of various musculoskeletal injuries, including knee injuries.
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy involves extracting a small amount of a patient’s blood and then processing it to separate the platelets from other blood components. The resulting platelet-rich plasma contains a higher concentration of growth factors and proteins that play a role in tissue healing and regeneration.
PRP injections are commonly used for knee injuries such as:
- Osteoarthritis: PRP injections have shown promise in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The growth factors in PRP can help stimulate tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the joint.
- Tendinitis: Tendinitis refers to inflammation or irritation of a tendon, and it can affect the knee, such as patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee). PRP injections may be used to promote healing and alleviate pain in these cases.
- Ligament sprains or tears: PRP injections can be used as an adjunctive treatment for ligament injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. While surgical repair may still be necessary in severe cases, PRP can help enhance the healing process and potentially improve outcomes.
- Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a rubbery, C-shaped cartilage that acts as a cushion between the bones in the knee joint. PRP injections may be considered as a conservative treatment option for meniscus tears, especially in cases where surgical intervention is not immediately required.
How much does PRP cost?
The cost is £2000 with follow up.
How long does the treatment last?
The duration of results from Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for knee injuries can vary depending on several factors, including the specific injury, the severity of the condition, the individual’s overall health, and their response to treatment.
In some cases, PRP injections may provide short-term relief from symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, immediately after the treatment. However, the goal of PRP therapy is to stimulate tissue healing and regeneration, which can take time.
For longer-lasting results, multiple PRP sessions may be recommended, typically spaced several weeks apart. The cumulative effect of multiple treatments can help enhance the healing process and provide more sustained benefits.
It’s important to note that PRP therapy is not a permanent solution for knee injuries, especially in cases of degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. The effects of PRP treatment can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience longer-lasting improvements while others may require ongoing maintenance sessions.
Is PRP better than knee surgery?
Whether PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is better than knee surgery depends on various factors, including the specific knee injury or condition, its severity, and individual circumstances.
In some cases, PRP therapy may be a suitable alternative to knee surgery, particularly for mild to moderate injuries or early-stage osteoarthritis. PRP injections can help stimulate tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms, potentially providing relief and improving function without the need for invasive surgery.
However, it’s important to note that PRP therapy may not be effective for all knee injuries or conditions, especially in advanced cases or when there is significant structural damage. In such instances, surgery may be the recommended or necessary option to address the underlying issue, repair damaged tissues (such as torn ligaments or menisci), or restore joint stability.