Platelet Rich Plasma Injections

Dr. Chris Woollam, MD & Danielle Boudreau
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We are pleased to announce that our physicians are now doing Platelet Rich Plasma injections, more commonly known as PRP, at our clinic.  You may have heard about PRP in the news as it is commonly used among professional and elite athletes. 

However, PRP is not just a treatment option for athletes. There are many people who could benefit from PRP injections. 

PRP involves injecting a more concentrated level of platelets from the patient’s blood back into the area of concern.  Blood consists of liquid, known as plasma, as well as solid particles such as red and white blood cells and platelets.  Platelets contain many growth factors which play an important role in the healing process.  The purpose of PRP is to create a higher concentration of platelets in the blood, hence the name – Platelet-Rich Plasma.

In order to increase the concentration of platelets, blood is drawn from the patient, spun in a centrifuge, and separated into it’s components.  The platelet-rich portion is then injected back into the area of concern.

It is thought that by increasing the concentration of platelets in the injured area, and therefore increasing the number of growth factors, it will speed up the healing process.

PRP can be effective in treating arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries in the elbow, shoulder, and knee, among others.  The research into this method is ongoing.     
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If you are interested in PRP, you can call us at 905-257-3456 for more information.  You will need a consultation with one of our sports medicine physicians prior to receiving PRP treatment to make sure that this is an appropriate treatment option for you. The consultation is covered by your provincial health plan (such as OHIP).

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