Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a new and exciting  treatment for musculoskeletal painful conditions. It has shown dramatic results in patients with various musculoskeletal painful conditions.  Almost all musculoskeletal conditions listed under our Spectrum of Practice page can be treated with PRP therapy. This includes most sport medicine overuse trauma injuries such as Iliotibial Band Syndrome, Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome,  Rotator Cuff Syndrome, Tennis and Golfer's Elbow, Achilles Tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis Ankle Sprains, Various Tendinopathies, Arthritis, Ligament Injuries and others. However, as this procedure is not covered by insurance, it is usually recommended for professional athletes desiring a simple and fast approach to returning to their professional activity.

The procedure consists of drawing a small amount of venous blood from your elbow vein, separating the Platelet Rich Plasma and injecting it in the area of chronic painful injury. Since it is your own blood that is used, there is no risk of transmitting an infectious agent. No sedation or local anesthesia is usually necessary. You should expect 1-3 procedures to complete the treatment. PRP therapy may be combined alternatively with Prolotherapy.

Of course, we cannot promise a 100% success in all cases. However, Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy has  been demonstrated to be a highly effective in various musculoskeletal injuries especially when a repetitive trauma is involved. The cases of several prominent tennis and golf athletes  are widely known to the general public. PRP therapy is safe. The worse case scenario is that it will not be effective. In the better case scenario, it can help avoid surgery thus saving precious time and efforts for the professional athlete. It is worth trying especially if other more simple measures have failed.

Dr. Anton Minassian holds a PhD. degree in Clinical Immunology and has years of experience at NIH working with blood cells and understanding the basic science behind PRP therapy. At the same time, he is Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and  has an extensive clinical training and experience with various injection procedures.