Fastest Recovery: Combining Stem Cell & PRP Therapy With Your PT

Getting Back To Normal Faster With PRP

Getting sidelined with an injury is far from enjoyable. But beyond undergoing treatment, recovery times can be extensive. For example, an ACL injury may require surgery with a rehabilitation timeline that can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. More importantly, post-surgical care is required to regain full function and bolster healing by strengthening the muscle group where the injury first occurred. These days, many doctors are recommending multifaceted post-operative treatments that combine platelet-rich-plasma therapy (PRP), stem cell treatments, and physical therapy to improve outcomes.

PRP defined

Undergoing PRP can be managed as an outpatient procedure, making the process more convenient for patients. To have the treatment, a person has blood drawn, which is then put into a centrifuge. The plasma component, which includes platelets, is separated from the red blood cells, which give the liquid a red hue. Once filtered out, the PRP is then injected back into a person’s body, usually at the original injury or surgical site. Plasma and platelets are necessary to speed up blood clotting and wound healing.

Stem cell therapy as a solution

Not all individuals will be told that stem cell therapy should be incorporated into a recovery program. However, people suffering from degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis might be encouraged to try the treatment. Additionally, stem cells have the potential to grow new cells and tissue, making the option especially attractive for individuals who might otherwise need a tissue transplant to repair a damaged joint. Similarly, research has already proven that stem cells can also be a viable alternative to traditional organ transplants.

The case for PT

Any individual undergoing surgery to repair a damaged joint, muscle, or ligament is strongly directed to complete physical therapy as part of the recovery journey. PT can serve a variety of benefits. Initially, the goal may be simply regaining mobility and full range of motion in the affected area. However, if factors such as improper posture or an awkward gait were the culprits for the injury, a licensed physical therapist can teach a patient the correct way to move to avoid creating further damage.

A multi-step approach

Essentially, combining all of the above solutions into one treatment plan can help individuals meet recovery benchmarks faster. However, progress will ultimately depend on the patient’s willingness to adhere to the physical therapy regimen as well as any directed restrictions. For any osteotherapist or surgeon, the goal is to get a patient back to a level of normal functionality. Injuries can typically limit mobility, curb activities, and negatively impact quality of life. By leveraging multiple proven treatment methods, physicians are working hard to shorten recovery periods and ensure that patients are back to a regular routine in no time.