What is PRP ?
When you’re injured, your body immediately begins a natural healing process to repair the damaged tissue. Platelets migrate to the site of the injury and start releasing inflammatory signals to trigger the immune response that initiates rapid healing.
Platelet-rich therapy, or PRP therapy, introduces a high concentration of platelets to a damaged or injured area. When platelets are introduced, they surround it and prompt an inflammatory response that triggers your body to send out waves of cells to the area to treat pain and possibly stimulate healing.
Tricare Is NOW covering Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections (Effective through Sept. 30, 2024)
TRICARE may cover PRP injections if you’re diagnosed with:
- Mild to moderate chronic osteoarthritis of the knee
- Lateral epicondylitis, also known as “tennis elbow”
Wake Nonsurgical Ortho is Triangle’s first private practice solely dedicated to Nonsurgical orthopedics. Duke-trained non-surgical orthopedic specialist, Dr. Matthew Kanaan, is dedicated to making sure that patients receive access to non-surgical treatments for ACL injuries. Dr. Kanaan will take the time to answer any questions you may have so that he can determine the best treatment option for you. For more information, contact our orthopedic clinic in Raleigh at (919) 719-2270 and schedule an appointment today!
Why choose PRP over Stem Cells (MSC’s, Umbilical and Amniotic) first?
So why choose PRP? There are many reasons that we suggest trying PRP first, but we factor in the cost, patient outcomes, and the actual research that is available. The evidence is actually really good for PRP in reducing pain for various conditions.
Same day spun PRP also contains some stem cells that circulate in the blood. While they may not be in the same concentration as a fat or bone marrow aspirate, we know that stem cells do circulate in human blood.
How many PRP injections have you performed?
Dr. Kanaan has performed thousands of PRP injections and uses an ultrasound machine to guide the injection. The blood is drawn and spun the same day in our office.
There are many clinics that advertise PRP injections, but most of them do not have near the experience with PRP as Dr. Kanaan.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
For our patients seeking PRP therapy in Raleigh, NC, we begin the process by taking a small amount of blood and isolating the platelet-rich plasma using a centrifuge. Once the PRP is separated, we can inject it into the damaged area, whether it’s a tendon, joint, or ligament, to prompt a mild inflammation.
While it may sound counter-intuitive to inflame an injured area, by stimulating inflammation, your body will send out a greater immune response to heal the area. This is a safe procedure that works using your own immune system to relieve the pain of arthritis, tendonitis, or damage from other conditions.
Patients Undergoing PRP Therapy in Raleigh See Results
We have performed thousands of PRP injections over the years and 80-90% our patients do see an improvement in symptoms. Sometimes even complete pain relief.
PRP therapy can sometimes eliminate the need for long-term medication or surgery and improve movement in the area. It does not work for everyone though.
It’s important to note that patients who receive PRP therapy in Raleigh, NC are not “cured” necessarily. We are focusing on elevating your body’s healing process, not necessarily regenerating tissue. There are only a few studies that show tissue regeneration.