Key Differences Between PRP Injections and Stem Cells

The human body heals itself from many conditions with the formation of a scab on a cut or wound. The idea that this process can be isolated, replicated, and applied to specific areas or injuries makes up the basis of understanding the regenerative workings of exciting new technology in the medical field.

A promising advancement in the field of orthopedic medicine has been the usage of PRP and stem cell injections to treat musculoskeletal conditions. Both treatments are gaining significant popularity, but you might wonder what benefits they provide.

Doctors use stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies to treat various conditions and injuries. Both involve drawing natural material from the body and using a localized injection to reinsert it. It can be especially effective for sports injuries and injuries associated with the knees, back, shoulders, or hip. They are particularly attractive options for athletes and active individuals, as they have incredibly short recovery times.

PRP Injection

The purpose of a PRP injection is to facilitate healing in the body. PRP is made from blood platelets extracted from your body. These platelets contain growth factors, which help with blood clotting and release growth factors.

The platelets become separated from your blood when exposed to centrifugal force.

Once injected, the platelets can commence working on the troubled area. This injection works best for areas that could naturally heal on their own or need to kickstart the healing processes, such as tendinosis and tendinitis. Athletes like Rafael Nadal and Tiger Woods have both benefited from a PRP procedure.

Since blood is constantly being replaced, there are few limitations to retrieving platelets from the body. The injections need to take place one week apart for three consecutive weeks.

This therapy is sometimes also given in conjunction with orthopedic surgery to speed up recovery because getting an injection of concentrated PRP helps facilitate healing.

Stem Cells

The therapeutic method of stem cell injection is more advanced than that of using PRP. Not only are stem cells capable of promoting growth like PRP, but they can also enhance the regeneration of damaged tissue in the body. This added benefit makes stem cells a better option for those with degenerative disorders such as arthritis, ligament tears, and damaged cartilage.

Stem cells are harvested from your body's bone marrow or fat deposits. These locations are used because they contain what are called mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs are self-replicating and can produce new tendons, ligaments, and muscles. With a stem cell injection, the cells are taken from the body, kept in a lab, and reinjected a few days later.

However, unlike platelets, a finite number of stem cells are available in the body. It’s also slightly more challenging to retrieve the stem cells than simply drawing blood. You must cease taking any NSAIDs two weeks before treatment.

For this procedure, you will likely be able to return to work the next day. The speedy recovery time is a big draw for many people, especially those looking to get back on the field or into the pool.

PRP vs. Stem Cell

Now that we discussed the two, you might wonder, “What is the difference between PRP and stem cell injections?” Both options work well to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with various orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions. PRP can be beneficial for slow-healing wounds, whereas stem cells can be better for severely damaged tissues. It’s also possible to receive both treatments at the same time.

PRP and stem cell injections allow patients to avoid potential complications and extended recovery time associated with surgical procedures. Both options have relatively low risks, especially when compared to undergoing a surgical operation. The recovery time associated with both approaches only lasts a few days.

Takeaways from Differences Between PRP vs. Stem Cells

We hope this has answered some of your questions related to what is the difference between PRP and stem cell injections.

PRP would be a better option for slow-healing wounds or damaged tissue with a poor blood supply, as it doesn’t contain the same regenerative properties as stem cells. More severe tissue damage cases will be better suited to receive stem cell injections to regenerate tissue. For both procedures, it will likely take a few weeks for the full benefit of the treatment to be noticeable.

The best thing you can do is be proactive and prevent injury to the best of your abilities. If you are struggling with pain, it’s worth speaking with a specialist to see if you’re a good candidate for either therapy.

Get in contact with one of the doctors at the American Hip Institute & Orthopedic Specialists to discuss personalized care options for you.

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