How Can Athletes Benefit from PRP Therapy?

Athletes are constantly pushing themselves to achieve peak performance. However, this can lead to physical wear and tear, as well as injuries that hinder their abilities. In recent years, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained popularity in the sports world to help athletes improve their performance.

Board-certified doctor of physical medicine and rehabilitation Dr. Christie Lehman may recommend PRP therapy as an option for athletes experiencing chronic pain or injuries. Call Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to discover the benefits of PRP today. Our experienced team members in Asheville, NC are dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential.

What kinds of injuries do athletes typically experience?

Athletes, whether they are professional or recreational, are prone to all kinds of injuries depending on their sport and individual training regimen. Here are some of the most common types:

• Strains and sprains: These occur when the muscles and tissues are stretched beyond their normal range of motion. Strains and sprains range from mild to severe and can happen in various areas like the ankles, knees, and wrists.
• Tendonitis: Tendonitis is an inflamed tendon, which is the tissue that connects muscle to bone. It can be caused by overexertion or repetitive motions, and athletes often experience it in their shoulders, elbows, or knees.
• Chronic pain: A sudden impact or repetitive stress on a certain area can lead to chronic pain in athletes. It can also result from improper training techniques, inadequate rest and recovery time, or underlying conditions.

What is PRP therapy?

During a PRP procedure in Asheville, NC, Dr. Lehman draws a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed and prepared in a lab to separate the platelet-rich plasma from other blood components. The PRP is then administered directly into the injured area under image guidance to ensure precise placement.

Once injected, the growth factors in PRP can help stimulate the body's natural healing response over time. Improvements can be seen in just 4 – 6 weeks, with optimal results occurring in 6 – 9 months.

How does PRP therapy help athletes?

There are a number of reasons why athletes and sports enthusiasts alike are turning to PRP therapy. Here are some of the reported benefits:

• Natural treatment: Instead of relying on painkillers or other medications that come with risky side effects, PRP therapy can help promote the body's natural ability to enhance itself. There is no need for harmful drugs as the platelet-rich plasma is derived from your own body.
• Nonsurgical: PRP therapy is minimally invasive, meaning it does not require incisions or surgery. It is an attractive option for athletes looking to avoid downtime and months of recovery.
• Improved performance: Once the treatment takes effect, many athletes see an improvement in their overall performance. With a stronger and healthier body, they may be able to push themselves further and reach their full potential.

Ask about PRP therapy for athletes

PRP therapy is just one of the many tools that athletes can use to enhance their performance and reach their personal best. Of course, a consultation with a board-certified doctor of physical medicine and rehabilitation, like Dr. Christie Lehman, is essential. Call Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to learn about platelet-rich plasma in Asheville, NC. We understand the importance of finding the right treatment for each individual athlete.