Specialized approaches
- Advanced Manual Therapy
- Global Postural Reeducation
- Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
- Osteoarthritis Program
- Concussion Management
- Jaw Pain (TMJ)
- Functional Assessment
- CNESST
- Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Running Biomechanical Assessment
- Physiotherapy Dry Needling
- Motor Control
- Pediatrics
- SAAQ
- Cyclist Positioning Assessment
- Post-Operative Rehabilitation
- Chronic Pain
- Frozen Shoulder Program
- Cervicogenic Headaches
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Non-Acoustic Tinnitus
- The McKenzie Method
- Shockwave Therapy
- Blood Flow Restriction (BFR)
- Knee Clinic
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a relatively new treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and show promising results according to the scientific literature. Platelets are naturally present in the blood and are responsible not only for blood clotting, but also for releasing proteins and growth factors that contribute to tissue repair. Depending on the protocol used, PRP contains a platelet concentration 3 to 8 times higher than that found in normal blood. Injecting PRP at the site of an injury therefore helps stimulate the repair of damaged tissues.
How does the procedure work?
An initial appointment is scheduled with our sports medicine physician to confirm whether you are a suitable candidate for PRP injections. A second appointment is then arranged to collect a blood sample, which is centrifuged to isolate the platelet-rich plasma. The PRP is then injected into the injury site under ultrasound guidance during the same visit. It is recommended to avoid taking anti-inflammatory medication during the two weeks prior to this appointment. After the procedure, specific recommendations will be provided to optimize the effectiveness of the injection. Physiotherapy follow-up is also important and should begin approximately one week after the injection.
Why consider PRP injections?
In certain chronic pain conditions such as knee osteoarthritis or tendon disorders (e.g., lateral epicondylitis or patellar tendinopathy), there may be an imbalance between tissue breakdown and tissue repair. In these cases, PRP can help restore a healthier metabolic environment in order to promote tissue healing when conventional treatments have not been successful.
Post-injection guidelines
Because one of the mechanisms of PRP is to reactivate the inflammatory process in the targeted area, it is important to avoid all anti-inflammatory medication for two weeks following the injection. During this same two-week period, activities that place stress on the injected area should be limited. Daily household tasks may still be performed provided that pain remains below 3/10. Additional recommendations may be provided depending on the area treated.
Importance of physiotherapy after the injection
Although strong scientific evidence supports PRP injections, the injection mainly stimulates two of the three phases of normal tissue healing: the inflammatory phase and the proliferative phase. The third phase—the remodeling phase—requires progressive and well-adapted activation of the targeted joint or tendon. This is why physiotherapy follow-up is essential to ensure that all phases of healing are optimized.
Summary of the PRP treatment process
- Appointment with our sports medicine physician to determine whether PRP treatment is appropriate.
- Appointment for blood collection and PRP injection under ultrasound guidance. It is recommended to be accompanied for this visit.
- Relative rest of the injected area for two weeks (household activities permitted if pain remains below 3/10). Avoid all anti-inflammatory medication for two weeks. Pain relievers may be prescribed during the first few days if necessary.
- Begin physiotherapy 1 to 2 weeks after the injection.
- Follow-up appointment with the physician 8 weeks after the injection. In some cases, a second PRP injection may be recommended.
- Gradual return to sports activities 8 to 12 weeks after the injection.