Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

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Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a simple, low-risk treatment that uses your own blood cells to help your body’s natural healing process.

Your blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Platelets are cells that help signal the body to repair damaged tissue. Plasma is the liquid part of blood that carries blood cells around your body.

Mixing platelets with plasma creates PRP, which has a higher concentration of platelets than normal blood and can support healing and reduce pain in injured areas.

PRP therapy is commonly used in sports medicine to treat muscles and joints injured by overuse.

In some cases, PRP therapy may reduce the need for opioid and over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medications. The risk of infection or your body rejecting the PRP is very low, since the treatment uses your own blood.

How it works

First, a small amount of blood is drawn from your body and placed in a machine called a centrifuge, which spins very fast to separate the different parts of your blood. After the platelets are isolated, they are mixed with your plasma to create PRP, which is then injected directly into the injured area of your body.

Patients may notice results within 2-6 weeks of treatment, but results may vary. Many patients can resume light physical activity within a week or so, with physician approval.

Why choose UAB Medicine

Whether you’re a professional athlete or weekend warrior, the specialists at UAB Sports & Exercise Medicine are dedicated to helping you get back to the activities you love.

Although PRP therapy is not usually covered by insurance, we offer affordable rates that range from $280 to $650. Patients can schedule a treatment appointment within 30 days in most cases, at one of our convenient UAB Sports & Exercise Medicine clinics – UAB Hospital-Highlands or UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

Every patient’s condition is different, so ask your doctor if PRP therapy may be right for you.