logo

Our Services / Platelet Rich Plasma Injections

Platelet Rich Plasma Injections

Platelet Rich Plasma Injections services offered in Columbus, GA

Platelet-rich plasma injections provide an effective, minimally invasive treatment for mild to moderate musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. At St. Francis Orthopaedic Institute in Columbus, Georgia, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Jake Dunn, DO, uses platelet-rich plasma injections to treat musculoskeletal problems, including shoulder instability and ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears. Call the St. Francis Orthopaedic Institute office today to make an appointment, or book your visit online.

Platelet Rich Plasma Injections Q & A

What are platelet-rich plasma injections (PRP)?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are minimally invasive orthopedic procedures that treat musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.

During PRP treatment, Dr. Dunn injects a platelet-rich solution into a specific area of your body, like an arthritic joint. The PRP solution increases circulation to the treatment site, relieving inflammation and promoting new, healthy tissue growth.

Which injuries and disorders benefit from platelet-rich plasma injections?

At St. Francis Orthopaedic Institute, Dr. Dunn uses platelet-rich plasma injections to treat various musculoskeletal injuries and disorders, including:

  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Shoulder instability
  • Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries
  • Tendinitis
  • Sprains and strains
  • Bursitis
  • Arthritis

Sometimes, Dr. Dunn uses platelet-rich plasma injections to speed healing after surgery. PRP nourishes the treated tissues, reducing the risk of side effects while promoting recovery.

What does getting platelet-rich plasma injections involve?

Platelet-rich plasma injections are an outpatient procedure. Most people get in and out of the office within 90 minutes.

On the day of your procedure, Dr. Dunn will draw several vials of your blood and put them into a small machine called a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates the platelets (growth factors), which have unique healing properties, from the rest of your blood.

Dr. Dunn transfers the platelet-rich solution into several syringes. He cleans and sterilizes the area of your body receiving treatment, like an elbow joint. Dr. Dunn injects the PRP solution into strategic points around the joint. He recleans and bandages the treatment site and provides recovery instructions.

Do platelet-rich plasma injections require downtime?

After platelet-rich plasma injections, you can return to your routine immediately. It’s normal to experience mild swelling and bruising at the injection sites. Take over-the-counter pain medication or ice the area to relieve discomfort. Since PRP injections use your blood, there’s no risk of infection or other severe complications.

How long does it take for platelet-rich plasma injections to work?

The time it takes for platelet-rich plasma injections to work depends on how severe your symptoms are and the problem treated. Most people experience significant relief within 2-3 weeks, but it can take longer. Some injuries and disorders require several injection appointments for the best results.

Call the St. Francis Orthopaedic Institute office today to schedule a platelet-rich plasma injection appointment, or book your visit online.