New Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection Service at Complete Physio
We are delighted to announce the introduction of our new Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) service, starting from September 2019. PRP is carried out at our Chelsea location on Fulham Road.
PRP is a safe and long-lasting treatment modality. PRP can be used to help manage a range of degenerative conditions affecting joints and soft tissue structures such as osteoarthritis and tendinopathy. PRP works by utilising the body’s own natural healing processes.
PRP now has a growing body of high quality research evidence (from double-blind randomised controlled trials) which support its safety and effectiveness in treatment of degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis.
PRP has recently been reviewed by NICE and its usage is now recommended as a treatment for mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. PRP is a natural and safe form of treatment, with long-lasting effect showing benefits over any other forms of therapy at 6 , 9 and 12 months post treatment.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is created when blood has been specially treated to create a plasma (part of the blood) which contains 3-5 times the normal density of platelets within it.
PRP has been shown to trigger the normal processes involved in healing. Thrombocytes release growth factors which activate and facilitate repair and regeneration within the tissues. Natural healing can therefore be stimulated by the high concentrations of platelets and growth factor found in PRP.
Research has shown that injecting the PRP can have a positive affect on healing and regeneration in joints and other soft tissue structures and is now accepted as a safe and effective treatment.
Why should you choose PRP Injections ?
The key advantage regarding PRP injections is that they are completely safe and have been shown to help with the rebuilding and regeneration of the joint and other soft tissues such as tendons, something that we are often asked about by our patients. This makes PRP fundamentally different from most other treatment approaches such as surgery, are generally detrimental to the tissues of the joints and have many risks and potential side effects.
PRP injections have also been shown to be effective for more than a year and give a great deal of relief to patients and allow them to continue with their exercise and rehabilitation programs, knowing that the PRP is helping to regenerate the tissues within the knee.
What happens at my appointment ?
- Following a consultation and assessment a small amount of blood is taken from the patient (usually a vein in the arm)
- The blood is then ‘spun’ for around 10-15 mins in a special machine, known as a centrifuge
- This distils a part of the blood to be rich in platelets i.e. the PRP
- The PRP is then injected into the area of the pain (usually a joint or tendon) under ultrasound guidance so as to precisely target to the appropriate anatomical area
Are there any side effects to PRP treatment?
PRP injections are extremely safe with no reports of any serious complications.
The patient may have some pain known as ‘post injection flare’ for up to a week post injection – this should be managed with relative rest, elevation and cold compress as required. We recommend avoiding anti-inflammatory medication for one week before and four weeks after PRP injection as these medication can diminish the effects of the treatment
What happens after I call to book ?
The process is as follows:
- If you would like to book in for PRP, you will be sent a comprehensive patient information leaflet, a medical questionnaire, and a consent form. This will then be screened by one of our experienced clinicians, who will suggest whether you can be booked in straight for a PRP injection, or may recommend an initial assessment first
- All other aspects of the injections will be clearly explained to you, including any specific preparation that may be required before the day of the injection
- You will be advised whether you need a course of three injections, which is known as the standard ACP, or whether you can have a one-off high concentration dose of PRP, known as ACP Max.
- If you are having multiple PRPs, they are normally spaced one to two weeks apart.
- You will receive a detailed letter of the consultation and treatment.
- We will also provide a structured exercise program to ensure that you achieve the best possible result from your PRP injections.
How do I book for PRP Injections ?
You do not require a medical referral to book for PRP injections.
To book in for our new service, simply call 0207 482 3875, or email injections@complete-physio.co.uk.