Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy, also known as PRP, is a regenerative injection therapy technique that uses patients’ own platelets to heal torn joints and ligaments. The process involves placing a small amount of the patient’s blood in a centrifuge that rotates at high speed, separating red blood cells from the platelets that release proteins and other particles involved in the body’s self-healing process. A small amount of the remaining substance is then injected into the damaged area.

Dr. Mark Kandutsch has been offering the innovative regenerative injection therapy at Cadillac Family Practice in Bar Harbor since 2007. While professional athletes have long used PRP to treat a variety of chronic musculoskeletal injuries, the treatment is still gaining mainstream recognition.

Studies reveal that PRP helps regenerate ligament and tendon fibers, which can accelerate the healing process. The high concentration of platelets—from 3 to 10 times that of normal blood—often prompt the growth of new soft-tissue or bone cells. PRP can be used to treat joint pain, acute and chronic muscle strain, ligament sprains, tendinopathy, tendonosis, plantar fasciitis, some meniscal and labral injuries and sacroiliac pain.

While PRP is a natural fit for athletes, the treatment is not just for sports injuries, it can benefit anyone looking to reduce pain and improve function following chronic muscle, joint, ligament and tendon injuries.