Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

    Platelets are the smallest cells in our blood. For a long time, we have known that when tissues are injured, platelets will quickly gather at the wound to form a blood clot, block the wound, and stop the bleeding. Recent studies have also confirmed that in addition to blood clotting, platelets play another important function to help regulate the body’s metabolism and promote tissue repair and healing. This is due to the release of a variety of growth factors, including FGF, PDGF, TGF-B, EGF, VEGF, IGF, etc., which contribute to the traction, differentiation, and proliferation of stem cells, and can also promote fibroblast formation, activation of endothelial and other cells, and induce the secretion of the extracellular matrix and angiogenesis. 

    In our bodies, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage are the tissues with poor circulation, and thus have a low rate of self-healing once they become inflamed, torn, or injured. Therefore, injecting “platelet-rich plasma” (PRP) is equivalent to airdropping nutrients to the injured area to promote tissue repair and healing. 

    Common clinical indications for PRP injection include: shoulder rotator cuff tear, Tennis elbow, Golfer’s elbow, knee joint degeneration (wearing of cartilage), ankle sprain or ligament tear, plantar fasciitis, etc. The physician will decide on the conditions and course of the injections. Ultrasound imaging will also be used to guide the injection so that PRP may be delivered with enhanced accuracy. After the injection, it is important to continue with rehabilitation exercises to adjust muscle tension and strengthen joint stability, to achieve the best and full effects of PRP therapy.