One of the most utilized treatments in the medical field for orthopedic conditions is a cortisone injection. Cortisone is a naturally produced hormone released by the adrenal gland in your body during times of stress. A synthetic, injectable version of cortisone is available as a medication that can reduce inflammation, taking away pain and swelling in muscles, joints, and soft tissue.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a new, minimally invasive injectable therapy used to treat many common orthopedic conditions. The injection is composed of a specially prepared sample of a patient’s own blood, which is then injected into damaged or surgically treated tissue. It is used to decrease pain associated with overuse conditions such as tendinitis, stimulate muscle recovery after a new injury and promote healing after surgery.
This therapy consists of a high concentration of a patient’s own platelets, which are a normal component of blood. Platelets play a significant role in accelerating the normal healing response by helping recruit cells that repair tissue and speed the rate of recovery. Some studies show that PRP therapy can help rebuild joint cartilage and strengthen injured ligaments and tendons.