PRP Injections

If you regularly experience joint pain but don’t want to invest in an invasive procedure, consider treatment with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. At Thriverock Active Healthcare in Las Vegas, Nevada, experienced osteopathic physician Lonnie Empey, DO, FACP, and his staff  regularly use PRP injections to address inflammation and promote healing. If you are interested in learning more, call the office or click the online booking tool to make an appointment today.

What are PRP injections?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a type of regenerative medicine that utilizes your body’s growth factors to promote healing.

Growth factors contain proteins that support cell growth. By isolating the platelets in your blood, Dr. Empey can use these growth factors to relieve swelling and inflammation caused by sports-related injuries and chronic conditions such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

What types of issues can PRP injections treat?

PRP injections are incredibly versatile. Dr. Empey regularly prescribes them for people who are suffering from:

• Tendon injuries
• Tennis elbow
• Knee pain
• Pulled hamstrings
• Knee sprains
• Postsurgical repair

You might also benefit from PRP injections if you experience a degenerative joint condition such as osteoarthritis. 

What is the process for receiving a PRP injection?

Dr. Empey performs PRP injections on-site in the state-of-the-art facilities at Thriverock Active Healthcare. First, Dr. Empey draws a sample of your blood and places it in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins around at a rapid rate of speed, separating your platelets from your blood.

After the centrifugation, Dr. Empey takes your platelet-rich solution and injects it into the area of your body that’s swollen or inflamed. 

The PRP treatment can address injury and inflammation at the injection site by promoting new cell growth. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a series of PRP injections may be necessary. 

Do PRP injections present any side-effects?

PRP injections are safe and well-tolerated. However, Dr. Empey administers PRP via injection. As a result, there are certain risks, including infection, nerve injuries, and tissue damage. Working with a qualified medical provider like Dr. Empey can significantly lower your risk of complications and help you achieve a successful outcome. 

What is the recovery process like following PRP injections?

Following your PRP injections, Dr. Empey sends you home to recover. In the first 24-48 hours after your procedure, it is normal to experience some pain and swelling. However, this should subside quickly.

Some people notice an improvement in their symptoms right away, but it usually takes a few weeks or months to relieve swelling and improve your mobility. Be patient and follow your provider’s instructions carefully. 

If you’re interested in learning more about PRP injections, make an appointment at Thriverock Active Healthcare today. Call the office or click the online booking tool to begin.