Tendonitis can feel like a frustrating setback for anyone who wants to stay active. If you have struggled with nagging discomfort in your shoulder, elbow, or wrist, you may be looking for effective treatment. That is where PRP injections for tendonitis come in.
This article will look at how PRP therapy works, its procedure, benefits, and what you can expect. If you are weighing your options for tendonitis, keep reading to see if PRP injections could be the answer.
Understanding PRP Injections for Tendonitis
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses your own blood to help heal irritated or injured tendons. The process involves:
- Drawing a small amount of your blood
- Spinning it in a machine called a centrifuge to separate out the platelets
- Injecting those concentrated platelets into the area with tendonitis
Platelets are tiny cells within your blood responsible for clotting and starting repairs when you are hurt. They also carry important growth factors that help tissues heal. By injecting these platelets into the injured tendon, doctors aim to boost the body’s natural recovery.
Benefits of PRP Injections for Tendonitis
Now, let’s look at the benefits of PRP injections for tendonitis:
Less Reliance on Medication
Many people with tendonitis rely on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain. Unfortunately, using NSAIDs for a long time can cause problems with your stomach, liver, or kidneys. PRP injections target healing at the source of your problem, reducing the need for daily medication.
Accelerated Healing
PRP therapy delivers a concentrated dose of growth factors into the area around the injured tendon. Studies show that this can speed up recovery. It helps you feel better and return to activity sooner than rest and physical therapy alone.
Minimally-Invasive Solution
Some treatments for stubborn tendonitis involve surgery, which comes with risks and a long recovery period. PRP injections only require a needle and a simple blood draw. Most people can walk out of the doctor’s office soon after the procedure. Then, they can return to regular activity within days.
Natural Healing With Fewer Side Effects
Because PRP uses your own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or other side effects is very low. There are no artificial chemicals or implants involved. This makes the treatment accessible for many people who may react poorly to medication or surgery.
Improved Tendon Strength and Function
Research has found that PRP treatment can improve the long-term quality and strength of tendons. This means that not only could you recover faster, but you may also reduce the chance of repeat injuries.
What to Expect During PRP Therapy
Knowing what happens during PRP therapy can help ease any anxiety you feel before your appointment.
Step 1: Blood Draw
Your doctor or a trained technician will draw a small amount of blood from your arm, similar to a standard blood test.
Step 2: Preparing the Platelets
Your blood will be placed in a centrifuge that spins rapidly to separate the platelets from the other blood cells. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes and results in a small amount of platelet-rich plasma.
Step 3: Injection Into the Injured Tendon
Your doctor will clean the skin around the affected area. They may use an ultrasound machine to guide the injection with precision. Using a fine needle, they will inject the PRP right where your tendon needs it most. The process causes little pain for most people, but you may feel brief discomfort.
Step 4: Recovery and Aftercare
After the injection, you may notice mild soreness or swelling in the area. This may be similar to how you might feel after getting a vaccine. Icing the area and taking over-the-counter pain relievers, if recommended by your doctor, can help. You should avoid heavy activity for a few days. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy as part of your recovery.
Recovery After PRP Therapy for Tendonitis
Recovery from PRP therapy is usually quick and straightforward, but each person heals at their own rate. Most people can return to light activity or office work soon after the procedure.
The First Few Days
Soreness and mild swelling may occur for 48 to 72 hours. It is important to rest the treated area and avoid anti-inflammatory medications that might slow healing. Use ice packs as directed and keep the area clean.
The Next Few Weeks
Most patients start a program with their physical therapist a week or two weeks after their injection. This helps ensure the tendon heals well and regains full function. You should avoid heavy lifting or high-impact exercises until your doctor gives the all-clear.
When to Expect Results
Many people start to notice a reduction in pain and better movement within three to six weeks. Improvement continues for several months as the tendon rebuilds and becomes stronger. Follow all instructions from your doctor to get the best results from PRP injections.
Possible Risks and Considerations
Every procedure carries some risk. With PRP therapy, the chance of infection or severe side effects is quite low, since the material comes from your own blood. However, minor bruising, temporary pain, or swelling can occur. Always choose a skilled, board-certified physician for your PRP therapy. This will help reduce risks and ensure the best possible outcome.
PRP Injections for Tendonitis in Plantation & Miami Lakes, FL
Living with tendonitis does not have to mean weeks of pain, hours on the sidelines, or reliance on medication. If you are considering PRP injections for tendonitis, trust the proven expertise of Dr. Tosca Kinchelow at The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center.
Dr. Kinchelow is a board-certified hand and wrist surgeon near you with experience in advanced treatments. Schedule your consultation today by calling (954) 635-5300 or use the online appointment request form on our website. Step confidently into your recovery and give your tendons the care they deserve.
The best hand surgeon near you looks forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/platelet-rich-plasma-prp-injection
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10919-tendonitis
https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/healthy-aging/platelet-rich-plasma/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378243
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tendinitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20378248
