Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

During the last blog post, I mentioned that one of the treatments Bryce Harper received for his injured knee was platelet-rich plasma injections.  This has become a popular treatment among athletes these days.  It is typically used during the inflammatory phase of the healing process to help accelerate recovery.  It involves taking a sample of blood from the same patient, separating out the platelet rich plasma, and then injecting the plasma into the injured tissue, such as a tendon or a ligament.  The patient must avoid exercise for a few days before starting or re-starting the rehabilitation program.  There are animal studies that have shown it is effective, and many athletes have claimed it has helped them improve.  It will likely become an even more popular treatment choice in the future.