PRP is the abbreviation for Platelet Rich Plasma. PRP has been utilized for a long time and is very safe. It can be performed in the office setting for the nonoperative treatment of shoulder conditions and sometimes is used in conjunction with surgery to attempt to improve healing. It involves removing a small amount of blood from the vein in your arm (similar to when a phlebotomist takes blood for typical lab draw) and isolating the platelets and growth factors. The blood is then separated into layers by a special process. Dr. Simovitch then uses ultrasound guidance to inject PRP into the site of injury or disease. The growth factors are then able to increase the inflammatory response and concentration of reparative cells to aid in healing tissue.
After the PRP injection, there may be a period of rest for a few days but then light use of the shoulder can resume. A complete return to strenuous shoulder activity is often recommended to wait until 8 to 10 weeks.
If you are interested in PRP, please contact Claire Felisma at (561) 657-4610 or email at Simovitchoffice@hss.edu.
