Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) uses your body’s natural regenerative ability to heal ligaments, tendons, and muscles damaged by injury or degenerative disease. Dr. Alexander Kulick performs ultrasound-guided PRP injections to relieve chronic pain and help his patients regain optimal function. To schedule an appointment for innovative and effective PRP therapy, call the office on the Upper East Side of New York City, or book an appointment online.

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What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma that contains a higher concentration of platelets than the amount normally found in your blood. Dr. Kulick creates the PRP solution on-site by drawing a sample of your blood and separating the platelets from the rest of the components in a centrifuge.

Because the PRP injection is created from your own blood, you don’t need to worry about side effects or reactions.

How does PRP therapy work?

When Dr. Kulick injects the PRP solution at the site of damaged tissues, it releases growth factors that activate the healing process by:

  • Recruiting stem cells to the area to regenerate tissues
  • Triggering the production of collagen, ligaments, tendons, and muscles
  • Reducing inflammation and pain
  • Developing blood vessels
  • Accelerating healing

The platelets in your PRP injection also prevent degeneration of any healthy tissue surrounding the damaged tissue.

What health conditions are treated with PRP?

PRP therapy can relieve the pain caused by many different orthopedic conditions, from tendon and ligament injuries to degenerative changes. The following are only a few of the health problems that may be treated with PRP:

  • Labral tears in the shoulder or hip
  • Chronic pain in the back, neck, and knees
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Sprains and strains
  • Cartilage tears
  • Tendonitis
  • Arthritis

Dr. Kulick frequently uses PRP to treat knee, shoulder, and hip joints.

What should I expect when getting a PRP injection?

Dr. Kulick performs ultrasound-guided PRP injections so that he can accurately visualize the targeted area and guide the needle to the injured tissues. After Dr. Kulick numbs the site and injects the PRP, the platelets naturally migrate to damaged areas to activate healing.

Most patients experience minor discomfort for a few days after their PRP injection. In some cases, Dr. Kulick may recommend avoiding strenuous activities during your recovery.

Depending on the severity of your injury or tissue degeneration, you may need 2-6 injections spaced three weeks apart. Dr. Kulick can outline your treatment plan after he has fully reviewed your condition and medical history.

To learn whether your pain can be relieved with PRP therapy, call Dr. Alexander Kulick or book an appointment online.