Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical and regenerative option to stimulate and harness your body’s own healing mechanisms to help you get back to daily activities with less pain and greater mobility.
If you’re preparing for your first PRP therapy appointment, it's helpful to know what to expect:
Your initial evaluation and diagnosis
Your journey to pain relief and better mobility starts with a consultation with Dr. Patrick Siegele, Gaylord Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation doctor).
During this visit, Dr. Siegele will review your medical history and prior treatments and conduct a comprehensive medical exam. Dr. Siegele may use ultrasound or advanced imaging to further assess the area of concern.
If PRP therapy is deemed to be the most suitable treatment, our team will schedule an appointment for your procedure at a time that’s convenient for you.
The PRP therapy procedure
During the treatment appointment, Dr. Siegele will draw a sample of blood and place it in a high-speed centrifuge to concentrate the platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
With precise ultrasound guidance, Dr. Siegele injects the PRP directly into the targeted joint, tendon, or soft tissue to deliver a high dose of platelets, growth factors, and proteins from your own blood to speed up tissue repair and encourage collagen production.
Learn how PRP works to trigger the body’s natural repair mechanisms
Dr. Siegele will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and a customized exercise plan designed to enhance your recovery. You will also leave with a three-month follow-up appointment to assess your progress and answer any questions.
What to expect after PRP injection
Mild pain, soreness, and swelling are common and to be expected during the first few days after a PRP injection. This reaction reflects the inflammatory phase that activates the body’s repair mechanisms in the treated area.
After a designated rest period for the targeted joint, tendon, or tissue, you will begin the personalized exercise plan that was discussed during your procedure appointment. Customized to your specific needs, these exercises gradually progress, beginning with gentle range-of-motion movements and advancing to resistance band exercises and light load-bearing activities, all designed to stimulate and support healing.
When can you start to see results?
Many patients begin to notice pain relief and improved function within about four weeks, with most experiencing significant improvement by six to eight weeks.
Ready to find relief? Call (203) 284-2845 or click here to schedule your evaluation with Dr. Patrick Siegele.
