Platelets are considered as “helper” cells that boost the healing process when you sustain an injury. They have growth factors that promote the growth of new cells, repair tissues, and reduce inflammation. This is why they play an important part in the healing process of certain sports injuries.
While research is still going on, Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy is showing massive potential in managing chronic pain and treating various orthopedic and sports injuries.
Sports Injuries That Can Be Treated by PRP Therapy
- Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is a condition in which there is pain and swelling in the elbow joint caused by any repetitive movement of the arm and wrist. Though playing tennis frequently can lead to this condition, it can also be a result of working on a computer for extended periods.
Common treatment methods for tennis elbow include using ice, taking a break from the activity, and using anti-inflammatory drugs. Platelet-rich plasma therapy can also help treat symptoms and decrease the need for surgery.
- Jumper’s Knees
Many high-impact sports such as basketball and volleyball where players need to do a lot of jumping and landing can also result in overuse of the knee joint. When our knee joints are overused, it can lead to this condition. This injury impacts the tendon that joins the kneecap to the shin bone, ultimately causing discomfort and inflammation.
Some of the common signs of jumper’s knee include experiencing pain while walking, running, or jumping and feeling discomfort while bending or straightening the leg.
- Rotator Cuff Injury
The group of tendons and muscles around your shoulder joint is known as the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff tears or injuries typically arise while playing sports or work-related activities or as a result of a single traumatic incident.
When suffering from rotator cuff injury, you might experience a “clicking” sensation in your shoulder when you lift your arm. Besides, you may notice swelling in the front of your shoulder, difficulty while moving your arm, and experiencing pain. Fortunately, PRP injections can result in a reduction of shoulder pain over time.
- Plantar Fasciitis
This is a condition in which a tendon, that connects your heel bone to your toes, gets inflamed. This condition causes stabbing pain in the foot. The patient feels the utmost discomfort in the morning when getting out of bed.
Although plantar fasciitis is prevalent among runners, it may also arise from other sports that require significant footwork. Age and weight can also be contributing factors. PRP injections may help to decrease pain and improve functionality.
While the above orthopedic and sports injuries are often caused while playing sports, they may occur due to other reasons as well. If you are also suffering from chronic pain due to injuries like the above, book an appointment to consult whether platelet rich plasma therapy in Orlando is right for you or not.
