PRP Injections For Athletes

David Wu, MD

Interventional Pain Management Specialist located in South Bay, Torrance, CA

If you experience pain because of a sports injury and need relief, see Dr. David Wu at his interventional pain management practice in Torrance, California. He provides platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for athletes to maximize healing and get them back out on the court, rink, or field. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office, or booking one online today.

PRP injections for athletes Q&A

What are platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for athletes?

Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, injections for athletes contain platelet-rich plasma, a part of your blood rich in platelets and growth factors. These substances stimulate healing and cell regeneration. When injected into painful or damaged tissues, PRP may be able to help athletes heal and recover quickly without harsh treatments or surgery.

What are the advantages of PRP injections for athletes?

PRP injections for athletes administered by Dr. Wu offer the following benefits:

  • Less pain
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Faster healing
  • Improved joint range of motion
  • Less stiffness 
  • Improved mobility
  • Better athletic performance 

PRP injections can help you heal faster after sports injuries, including sprains, strains, fractures, tendonitis, soft tissue tears, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, jumper’s knee, or other common sports-related injuries. They may allow you to avoid invasive procedures. 

Am I a candidate for PRP injections for athletes?

To determine if you’re a candidate for PRP injections, Dr. Wu discusses your medical history, lifestyle, medications, and symptoms. He completes a physical exam and may order diagnostic tests to determine which treatment best suits you.

PRP injections can treat:

  • Joint pain
  • Strains
  • Sprains
  • Chronic pain
  • Fractures
  • Tennis elbow
  • Golfer’s elbow
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Other forms of tendonitis 
  • Ligament or muscle strains

Additional pain-relieving options available at Dr. Wu’s office include facet joint injections, epidural steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, and spinal cord stimulation

What can I expect during PRP injections?

During the first step of PRP treatment, Dr. Wu takes a sample of your blood. He spins it in a centrifuge to extract platelets from the original sample.

Dr. Wu then injects PRP into tissues that are painful, swollen, stiff, or injured. Each injection takes just a minute or two to complete, though you might receive multiple PRP injections during each treatment session. 

What happens after PRP injections for athletes?

After you undergo PRP injections, you can resume a typical routine, though you may want to take it easy for the rest of the day. Common side effects include swelling, redness, and tenderness near the injection sites.

Over time, new cells may grow in the treatment area. You can expect reduced overall pain, faster healing, increased strength, and a better quality of life.

Dr. Wu often recommends athletes complete a series of PRP injections to achieve a superior outcome.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. David Wu by phone or request one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for PRP injections for athletes.