Here at Wave on Wave Health we utilize many treatments that involve PRP. So what is PRP? It stands for Platelet Rich Plasma.
Okay so hold on while I explain the science….In short, your blood is drawn and placed in centrifuge to separate the plasma from the red blood cells. Plasma contains platelets. Platelets are the smallest of all blood cells which promote wound healing because they are rich in alpha and dense granules that are rich in growth factors and cytokines that promote healing. Plasma is primarily water combined with proteins, and platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a blood concentrate that contains 3 to 5 times more platelets than whole blood. PRP has the ability to increase cell activity to promote healing through proliferation, inflammation and remodeling!
How can PRP be used?
PRP can be used in aesthetic treatments for those who are looking to rejuvenate their skin! Joint injections for those with chronic knee, shoulder, ankle pain. Tendinopathies for those with knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle pain, and PRP can be used as an effective treatment for hair loss. At Wave on Wave Health we utilize PRP for all these conditions!
Who should not have PRP injections/treatment?
ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATIONS:
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Platelet dysfunction
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Thrombocytopenia
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Sepsis
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Local infection
RELATIVE CONTRAINDICATIONS:
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Consistent NSAID use (ibuprofen, motrin, advil) within 48 hours of the procedure
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Corticosteroid injection within 1 month of the procedure
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Systemic (oral) use of corticosteroids within 2 weeks of the procedure
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Tobacco use
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ANY cancer
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Low hemoglobin
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Low platelets
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Recent fever/illness
Are there side effects/risks?
There are risks with any procedure. PRP is considered safe, as it comes from the patient. There is no chance of allergy or reaction to your own blood! There is always a risk of infection with any procedure that compromises the skin barrier but the risk with PRP is low.
In summary, PRP is an effective treatment for joint pain, skin rejuvenation, and hair loss. There is minimal down time and side effects since the product being administered is autologous (coming from the patient’s own blood)!
The human body has an amazing ability to heal itself!
