Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Injections in Kirkland, WA

As a fellowship-trained board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Camille Clinton delivers state-of-the-art treatment to patients experiencing tendonitis, tendon tears or arthritis at her orthopedic surgery office in Kirkland, WA.  Dr. Clinton is dedicated to providing patient-centered care and takes the time to discuss all treatment options in an effort to preserve and improve patient lifestyles.

As a former athlete herself, Dr. Clinton understands the desire to return to the sports and activities you love and utilizes an individualized approach to ensure optimal care and results.  Call (425) 899-4810 to schedule an appointment at our orthopedic surgery office in Kirkland.

What is PRP?

PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Plasma is a part of our blood that contains proteins which help our blood to clot. Those same proteins can also encourage cell growth. Researchers have now been able to separate plasma from the blood to form a concentrated substance that can be utilized to help speed up the body’s natural healing processes.

Health professionals, particularly those involved in sports medicine, have been working to concentrate these platelets within a single injection that is then applied to the affected area of the body. These modified platelets now possess between 5 and 10 times more growth factors than normal blood and, in theory, can greatly reduce recovery time by expediting the healing process.

What are PRP Injections?

A new type of treatment for injuries called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have been gaining significant attention among the medical community. There is still much speculation as to the success of these treatments, but many say that PRP injections are immensely helpful in reducing the recovery time for different types of injuries all over the body.

There has been a study that showed it is effective in treating pain from arthritis in the knee. Some studies have also shown success in treating some types of tendonitis. There is still more to learn, but this is an option for patients who would like to avoid surgery and have not had success with other treatments.

Has This New Treatment Been Approved by the FDA?

PRP has not gotten clearance from the FDA just yet since its results have not been definitively proven, although several famous athletes like Rafael Nadal and Tiger Woods have been injected with PRP to help heal from sports injuries. More clinical studies are needed, yet many physicians are currently using PRP as a treatment for many different types of injuries.

Common Uses of PRP Injections

Platelet-rich plasma can be applied to many different situations. The effectiveness of the injections are influenced by factors such as:

  • Which area of the body is being treated
  • The health of the patient
  • Whether the injury is chronic or acute in nature

Research for PRP injection treatments is ongoing with many treatments being used for conditions like:

  • Knee arthritis: Doctors have injected PRP into adults with osteoarthritis in the knee. They are finding it is a more effective treatment than injections of hyaluronic acid, although more research is needed for conclusive proof.
  • Acute ligament and muscle injuries: These would include pulling a hamstring, pulling a muscle, or knee sprains.
  • Fractures
  • Post surgical repair: Physicians inject PRP into a torn tendon in the shoulder, known as a rotator cuff tendon. They also inject to treat the ACL, but there seems to be little benefit for that area so far.
  • Fractures
  • Chronic tendon injuries: Tendons are normally slow to heal after an injury. Doctors are using PRP to treat chronic tendon problems like tennis elbow, tendonitis at the ankle, and jumpers knee.
  • Hair loss and male pattern baldness

Are PRP Injections Safe?

Because the injections are coming from your own body, the risks are minimized. Of course there can always be side effects like nerve injuries, infection or pain at the site, and tissue damage.

Are PRP Injections Effective?

PRP has been studied extensively and has shown more promise for treating some conditions than others. There has been a study that showed it is effective in treating pain from arthritis in the knee. Some studies have also shown success in treating some types of tendonitis. There is still more to learn, but this is an option for patients who would like to avoid surgery and have not had success with other treatments.

What are the Benefits of PRP Injections in the Shoulder

The main benefit is remarkable improvement in symptoms. PRP injections can also eliminate the need for more invasive treatments like surgery, or a long term dependency on medication. You may realize a significant return of function along with a shorter recovery time.

The most important benefit is that no foreign substance is used in this treatment. It is only the patient’s blood and their own growth proteins!

Request a PRP Injection Appointment

While evidence to suggest the success of platelet-rich plasma injections is still limited, it is encouraging. To learn more about PRP injections and how successful they may be in treating your particular injury, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Clinton today by calling (425) 899-4810.

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