What is PRP and how does it work?
Platelet-rich plasma is a concentration of your platelets (a part of your blood) obtained by spinning your whole blood in a special centrifuge. Platelets are what naturally begin the healing process in your body anytime an injury occurs. The platelets release proteins that promote healing to the injured area. The concentration of platelets in PRP allows your body to recognize the injury as a priority and heals it more quickly and more thoroughly than your body can by itself.
How do I choose: PRP or BMA?
It is an individualized decision, made by the doctor based on the severity of the injury and/or disease involved and your medical history. Some diagnoses require PRP alone, some BMA alone. The physicians use our clinic’s experience as well as the experience of other practitioners who perform regenerative therapies around the world.
What can be treated with PRP/BMA injections?
Many soft tissue injuries and degenerative conditions of muscle, tendon, ligament, joints, bone, and nerves can be treated. The success rate of our regenerative techniques depends on many factors and these will be discussed at your initial appointment.
Is PRP/BMA covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies do not cover these procedures and consider them investigational. We offer patient financing through CareCredit.
Why is an X-ray ordered before I see the doctor?
Our physicians require that you have an X-ray or MRI done before you visit our office for the first time. The only exception is that we can provide an X-ray in our St. Louis office. This provides our physician an opportunity to review your damaged area and assess to what degree they may be able to help you.
Why do you order lab tests?
During the initial evaluation process, we will most likely order laboratory blood work to check the complete blood count, testosterone, and vitamin D levels. The CBC will let us know if you have had any recent infections. Testosterone is the chemical signal of your body to tell it to build new tissue. Vitamin D helps calcium to be absorbed and supports the chemical processes that result in healing.
When do I start to feel better or see results?
This varies from patient to patient. Generally, patients report feeling less pain or seeing improvements as soon as 4 weeks post-treatment. More concrete improvements can be identified in as soon as 12 weeks post-treatment. Visual improvements can be confirmed with MRI, X-ray or ultrasound approximately 12 months after treatment.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure will typically take between 1 and 2 hours.
Can I drive or be active after the treatment?
Pain medication may inhibit your ability to drive. You can be active after these treatments but it is encouraged that frequent breaks be taken when pain becomes problematic. We do not want a patient to fight through pain to finish an activity.
When can I start to work out again?
We will usually have you rest and only do regular daily activities for the first 2 weeks post-treatment, then start to incorporate regular workout routines or physical therapy after that time.
When can I go back to work?
Generally, patients are able to return to work after a couple of days post-treatment. This may be dependent on your profession and the area(s) that are being treated.
May I continue to take anti-inflammatory medications?
We recommend you not take anti-inflammatory medication starting 1 week before treatment. You may resume after treatment. We recommend Tylenol for pain relief.
Will the injections be painful?
There will be a varying degree of discomfort associated with the initial injection of local anesthetic. Many patients find the local numbing agent helps the pain for the first 30 minutes to 1 hour after the procedure. The area injected will likely be very painful for the first 24 to 72 hours and your physician will prescribe pain medication.
How long before I can resume activity?
Usually 2-3 days after treatment you are able to resume normal daily activities with less pain. You may resume exercise 2 weeks after treatment cutting your time or distance in half. Let pain be your guide.
Have more questions?
Our team is happy to answer any questions about your specific condition and treatment options. Call our Chesterfield office at (636) 778-2900 or Naples at (239) 631-1960.