3 Medical Conditions PRP Injections Are Used To Treat

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are made from a patient's platelets to speed up the body's healing process. Platelets are also called thrombocytes. These cell fragments in the blood form clots in order to stop the body from bleeding. Since platelets also help to promote healing, PRP injections are used to treat certain medical conditions.

Here are three medical conditions PRP injections are used to treat.

1. Tendinitis

Tendons are the dense connective tissues that attach muscle to bone. When the tendons become irritated or inflamed, it results in a condition called tendinitis. This condition most commonly affects tendons located near the elbows, shoulders, heels, and wrists.

Tendinitis occurs when a certain part of the body is overused or the same movement gets frequently repeated. Sudden injuries can also cause tendinitis. This condition is especially common in those who play certain sports such as tennis, golf, bowling, and baseball. According to recent studies, PRP injections are a proven method of treatment for tendinitis.

2. Arthritis

The place in the body where two bones meet is called the joint. These joints are what hold the skeleton together, plus they enable the body to experience a range of motion. Arthritis occurs when these joints become swollen and tender. In some cases, several joints in the body experience arthritis. Pain associated with arthritis ranges from mild to severe. When arthritis is severe, it makes it very difficult to move and can greatly reduce one's quality of life.

One of the most common types of arthritis is osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis occurs when the cartilage begins to wear down. Osteoarthritis causes pain in various parts of the body including the hands, knees, back, and hips. PRP injections are becoming an effective treatment option for osteoarthritis, as well as other types of arthritis. For those who suffer from arthritis, PRP injections can prevent inflammation, stimulate new growth of cartilage, and increase the production of lubricating fluid in the joint.

3. Androgenic Alopecia

This genetic condition, which is often referred to as hair loss, affects both men and women. Men with androgenic alopecia start losing the hair above their temples. Over time, hair loss begins to form an "M" shape. Men then become either partially or completely bald. Women with androgenic alopecia lose hair all over their heads. They usually do not become bald, however.

There are promising studies that show PRP injections into the scalp can reverse hair loss. PRP injections can also stimulate the growth of new hair. For the best results, PRP injections should be done in conjunction with hair loss medication or topical treatments.

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