Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections in Cary, Holly Springs & Morrisville, NC
Personalized PRP treatment for orthopaedic pain, joint conditions, and soft-tissue injuries
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a nonsurgical treatment that uses a concentrated preparation of your own blood platelets to support the body's natural healing response. PRP may be considered for certain joint, tendon, ligament, muscle, and other orthopaedic conditions when conservative treatment has not provided adequate relief.
Dr. Demetri M. Economedes provides individualized orthopaedic care for patients in Cary, Holly Springs & Morrisville, NC, helping determine whether PRP injections are an appropriate option based on your condition, symptoms, activity level, and treatment goals.
What is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Our blood consists of a liquid component known as plasma. It also consists of three main solid components which include the red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Platelets play an important role in forming blood clots. They also consist of special proteins, known as growth factors, which help with our body’s healing process. Platelet-rich plasma or PRP is a high concentration of platelets and plasma. A normal blood specimen contains only 6% platelets, while platelet-rich plasma contains 94% of platelets and 5 to 10 times the concentration of growth factors found in normal blood, thus greater healing properties.
What are the Indications for PRP Injections?
PRP is a relatively new method of treatment for several orthopaedic conditions such as muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries; arthritis; and fractures. PRP injections can help alleviate painful symptoms, promote healing and delay joint replacement surgeries.
Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group
Dr. Economedes is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, adult joint reconstruction, and arthritis care. Fellowship trained in Adult Joint Reconstruction at Rush University Medical Center, he provides comprehensive treatment for joint pain and mobility issues. Dr. Economedes is committed to helping patients regain function and improve quality of life through personalized care and advanced surgical techniques.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection Procedure
Your clinician will draw blood, most typically from a large vein in your arm. The blood is then spun in a centrifuge machine to separate the platelets from the remaining blood components. The affected part of your body is then injected with the platelet-rich plasma, with ultrasound guidance if needed.
Post-Procedure Care following PRP Injections
It is normal to feel some discomfort at the injection site for a few days after your procedure.
- You may use cold compresses to alleviate your symptoms.
- You will be instructed to stop any anti-inflammatory medications.
- You may resume your normal activities but should avoid any strenuous activities such as heavy lifting or exercises.
Risks and Complications of PRP Injections
There are very minimal risks associated with PRP injections. Some of the potential risks include:
- Increased pain at the injection site
- Infection
- Damage to adjacent nerves or tissues
- Formation of scar tissue
- Calcification at the injection site
Why Choose Dr. Demetri Economedes for PRP Injections in Cary, Holly Springs & Morrisville, NC?
Choosing regenerative treatment starts with determining whether it is appropriate for your specific condition. Dr. Demetri M. Economedes takes an individualized approach to orthopaedic care, evaluating your symptoms, medical history, physical condition, and goals before recommending treatment.
Personalized Orthopaedic Evaluation
PRP is not appropriate for every patient or every type of orthopaedic condition. Dr. Economedes evaluates the underlying cause of your pain and considers nonsurgical and surgical treatment options before developing a personalized care plan.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
For appropriate patients, PRP injections may provide a nonsurgical treatment option for certain orthopaedic conditions involving the joints, tendons, ligaments, or muscles. Treatment recommendations are based on your diagnosis and individual needs.
Targeted PRP Treatment
PRP treatment uses a preparation derived from your own blood. After a blood sample is processed to concentrate platelets, the resulting PRP is injected into the targeted treatment area. Imaging guidance may be used when appropriate to help accurately target the affected tissue.
Comprehensive Joint and Orthopaedic Care
As a hip and knee replacement specialist, Dr. Economedes provides care across the spectrum of orthopaedic treatment. When appropriate, PRP may be considered as part of a broader treatment strategy before more invasive procedures are considered.
Convenient Care for Patients in the Triangle
Patients seeking PRP injections near Cary, Morrisville, or Holly Springs can receive personalized orthopaedic evaluation and treatment close to home. The goal is to provide clear recommendations and help you understand your available treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP Injections
PRP injections use a concentrated preparation of platelets obtained from your own blood. Platelets contain proteins and growth factors involved in the body's natural healing processes. The PRP is injected into the affected area as part of a nonsurgical treatment approach.
PRP may be considered for certain orthopaedic conditions involving muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, including some forms of arthritis and soft-tissue injuries. Whether PRP is appropriate depends on your specific diagnosis and overall health.
A small amount of blood is typically drawn from your arm and processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets. The PRP preparation is then injected into the targeted area. Ultrasound or other imaging guidance may be used when appropriate.
Yes. PRP is prepared from a sample of your own blood. Because the treatment uses your own blood components, it does not involve donor tissue.
You may experience some discomfort during or after the injection. Temporary soreness or increased pain at the injection site can occur for several days. Your doctor will provide instructions for managing discomfort following treatment.
Recovery varies depending on the condition being treated and the location of the injection. Many patients can resume routine activities relatively quickly, but strenuous exercise and heavy activity may need to be temporarily restricted. Follow your individualized post-treatment instructions.
PRP is a nonsurgical treatment and is not a replacement for joint replacement when surgery is medically indicated. In selected patients, PRP may be considered as part of nonsurgical management. Dr. Economedes can discuss whether PRP or another treatment is appropriate for your condition.
PRP injections are generally considered low risk, but complications can occur. Possible risks include temporary increased pain, infection, injury to nearby nerves or tissues, scar tissue formation, or calcification at the injection site.
The best way to determine whether PRP is appropriate is through an orthopaedic evaluation. Dr. Economedes can assess your condition, discuss available nonsurgical and surgical options, and recommend a treatment approach based on your individual goals.
Explore PRP Treatment in Cary, Morrisville or Holly Springs
If orthopaedic pain or a soft-tissue injury is limiting your mobility and daily activities, PRP may be one of the nonsurgical treatment options worth considering. Dr. Demetri M. Economedes can evaluate your condition and help determine whether PRP injections in Cary, Morrisville, or Holly Springs are appropriate for you.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Economedes to discuss your orthopaedic condition and personalized treatment options.
