Apr 14, 2025
Joint pain can be a daily struggle, affecting everything from simple walks to sleep and overall quality of life. For many, traditional treatments like physical therapy, medications, or even surgery provide only limited relief—or come with side effects and long recovery times. That’s where regenerative medicine steps in, offering innovative options like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Cell Therapy. These treatments harness the body’s own healing powers to target the root of joint pain, not just mask the symptoms.
If you’re curious about how PRP and Cell Therapy work, and whether they might be right for you or someone you love, read on. We’ll break down the science in simple terms and explore how these therapies are changing the way we treat joint issues.
What Causes Joint Pain?
Joint pain can stem from many sources: injury, overuse, inflammation, arthritis (especially osteoarthritis), or even simple aging. The cartilage that cushions joints can wear down, tendons and ligaments can become inflamed or torn, and the surrounding tissues may degenerate over time.
Traditionally, options like corticosteroid injections or anti-inflammatory drugs have been used to reduce pain. However, these don’t actually repair damage—they just offer temporary relief. That’s where regenerative therapies like PRP and cell therapy stand apart: they aim to stimulate healing, not just dull the pain.
What Is PRP Therapy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment that uses a concentration of your own platelets to accelerate healing in damaged joints and tissues.
How It Works:
- Blood Draw: A small amount of your blood is drawn—similar to a standard lab test.
- Separation: The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other components like red and white blood cells.
- Injection: The resulting platelet-rich plasma is injected directly into the affected joint.
Platelets are best known for clotting blood, but they also contain growth factors—powerful proteins that promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate cell regeneration. By injecting a high concentration of these growth factors directly into the joint, PRP therapy encourages the body to repair itself.
What It’s Used For:
- Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, shoulder)
- Tendonitis
- Ligament injuries
- Cartilage damage
- Sports injuries
What Is Cell Therapy?
Cell therapy—often referred to as stem cell therapy—uses the body’s own cells to rebuild and repair damaged tissues. These aren’t embryonic stem cells but rather adult stem cells, typically derived from bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue.
How It Works:
- Harvesting Cells: Cells are collected from your own body, usually from the bone marrow in your pelvis or fat tissue in the abdomen or thighs.
- Processing: The cells are processed and sometimes combined with PRP to enhance their effectiveness.
- Injection: The mixture is injected into the painful joint under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance.
These cells have the ability to differentiate—meaning they can transform into other types of cells, such as cartilage, bone, or tendon cells. They also release molecules that reduce inflammation and promote healing at the cellular level.
What It’s Used For:
- Moderate to severe osteoarthritis
- Cartilage degeneration
- Chronic joint inflammation
- Joint injuries that haven’t healed with traditional treatments
PRP vs. Cell Therapy: What’s the Difference?
| Feature |
PRP Therapy |
Cell Therapy |
| Source |
Platelets from your blood |
Stem cells from bone marrow or fat |
| Mechanism |
Stimulates healing with growth factors |
Repairs tissue by regenerating new cells |
| Best For |
Mild to moderate joint damage |
Moderate to severe degeneration |
| Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
Slightly more invasive (requires tissue harvesting) |
| Cost |
Lower |
Higher |
Think of PRP as a “booster” that speeds up healing, while cell therapy is a “builder” that can regenerate more extensive damage.
What to Expect from Treatment
Procedure:
Both PRP and cell therapy are usually done in an outpatient setting. The procedures typically take 1-2 hours. Since your own cells are used, the risk of allergic reactions is minimal.
Recovery:
- PRP: Mild soreness for a day or two; most people resume normal activity within 24-48 hours.
- Cell Therapy: Slightly longer recovery time due to the harvesting process; some patients may need a few days of rest.
Results:
- Most patients report a gradual reduction in pain over weeks to months.
- Improvements can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years or more.
- Outcomes vary depending on the severity of the condition, overall health, and adherence to post-treatment guidelines like physical therapy and lifestyle changes.
The Science Behind It
PRP and cell therapy are backed by a growing body of research. For example:
- A 2020 study published in American Journal of Sports Medicine found that PRP injections significantly improved symptoms in patients with knee osteoarthritis over a 12-month period.
- A 2021 meta-analysis concluded that stem cell therapy showed consistent results in improving joint function and reducing pain in osteoarthritis patients, especially when used early in disease progression.
While not a miracle cure, these therapies are helping people delay or even avoid surgery, including joint replacement.
Is It Safe?
Yes—for most patients, PRP and cell therapy are considered safe and well-tolerated. Because the materials come from your own body, the risk of infection or rejection is extremely low. However, like any medical procedure, results aren’t guaranteed, and not everyone is a good candidate.
It’s crucial to consult with a medical provider who specializes in regenerative medicine to determine if these treatments are appropriate for your condition.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Unfortunately, most insurance companies don’t yet cover PRP or cell therapy, viewing them as experimental. That’s slowly changing as more evidence emerges. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars (for PRP) to several thousand (for cell therapy), so be sure to ask for a cost estimate before committing.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
You might be a good candidate for PRP or cell therapy if you:
- Have chronic joint pain that hasn’t improved with rest, therapy, or medication
- Want to avoid or delay surgery
- Are in good general health
- Are not a smoker (smoking reduces healing)
- Are not severely immunocompromised or on blood thinners
The Future of Joint Pain Treatment
PRP and cell therapy offer a promising new frontier in the treatment of joint pain. These regenerative therapies don’t just cover up symptoms—they tap into the body’s natural ability to heal, rebuild, and regenerate. While they’re not a replacement for all conventional treatments, they can be a powerful tool in the journey to pain relief, better mobility, and improved quality of life.
If joint pain is holding you back, it may be time to consider a regenerative approach. Consult a knowledgeable provider to explore whether PRP or cell therapy is the right path for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Mar 28, 2025
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow. It is typically caused by repetitive motions, such as those used in tennis, golf, or other sports that involve gripping and swinging a racket or club. Similarly, pickleball, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, can also lead to elbow injuries due to the repetitive nature of the game.
These types of overuse injuries can be particularly frustrating for athletes and active individuals, as they can significantly impact their ability to participate in the sports and activities they love. Traditional treatment options, such as rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications, can provide temporary relief, but they do not address the underlying cause of the injury. This is where Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for both tennis elbow and pickleball-related injuries.
What is PRP therapy and how does it work?
PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that utilizes the body’s own healing mechanisms to promote tissue repair and regeneration. The process involves drawing a small sample of the patient’s blood, which is then centrifuged to separate the platelets from the other blood components. These concentrated platelets, rich in growth factors and other beneficial proteins, are then injected back into the injured area, such as the elbow.
The high concentration of growth factors and other healing factors in the PRP stimulate the body’s natural healing process, leading to the regeneration of damaged tissues and the reduction of inflammation. This can help alleviate pain and improve the overall function of the affected area, allowing patients to return to their normal activities and sports more quickly.
The benefits of PRP therapy for Tennis Elbow and Pickleball injuries
PRP therapy has several benefits for individuals suffering from tennis elbow or pickleball-related injuries:
- Reduced pain and inflammation: The growth factors and other healing factors in the PRP can help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area, providing relief from the discomfort associated with these types of injuries.
- Improved tissue healing: PRP therapy can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, leading to the regeneration of damaged tissues and the restoration of normal function.
- Faster recovery times: By promoting tissue healing and reducing inflammation, PRP therapy can help patients recover more quickly from their injuries, allowing them to return to their normal activities and sports sooner.
- Minimally invasive procedure: PRP therapy is a relatively simple and non-surgical procedure, as it involves only a small blood draw and an injection of the patient’s own PRP into the affected area.
- Long-lasting results: Unlike some traditional treatments that provide only temporary relief, the benefits of PRP therapy can be long-lasting, as the regenerative effects of the treatment can continue to provide benefits over time.
PRP therapy vs. other treatment options
When it comes to treating tennis elbow and pickleball-related injuries, PRP therapy offers several advantages over other treatment options:
| Treatment Option |
Pros |
Cons |
| Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE) |
– Relatively simple and non-invasive
– Can provide temporary relief |
– Does not address the underlying cause of the injury
– Provides only short-term relief |
| Oral anti-inflammatory medications |
– Can reduce pain and inflammation
– Readily available |
– Can have side effects, such as stomach irritation
– Do not promote long-term healing |
| Corticosteroid injections |
– Can provide rapid pain relief |
– Temporary relief only
– Can weaken or damage the affected tissues over time |
| Physical therapy |
– Can help strengthen the affected area and improve function
– Promotes long-term recovery |
– Requires a significant time commitment
– May not be suitable for all patients |
| PRP therapy |
– Promotes long-term healing and regeneration
– Minimally invasive procedure
– Utilizes the body’s own healing mechanisms |
– May require multiple treatments for optimal results
– Can be more expensive than some other options |
As the table demonstrates, PRP therapy offers a unique combination of benefits that can make it a highly effective treatment option for individuals suffering from tennis elbow or pickleball-related injuries.
The PRP therapy process for Tennis Elbow and Pickleball injuries
The PRP therapy process for treating tennis elbow and pickleball-related injuries typically involves the following steps:
- Blood Draw: A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn, usually from the arm or hand.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins the blood at high speeds to separate the different blood components, including the platelets.
- Platelet Concentration: The platelets are then concentrated and separated from the other blood components, resulting in a highly concentrated PRP solution.
- Injection: The concentrated PRP is then injected directly into the affected area, such as the elbow, using a small needle. This process is typically guided by ultrasound imaging to ensure the accurate placement of the PRP.
- Recovery: After the injection, the patient may be asked to rest the affected area for a period of time, followed by a gradual return to normal activities as the healing process progresses.
Depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s response to treatment, multiple PRP injections may be required over the course of several weeks or months to achieve the desired results.
Frequently asked questions about PRP therapy for Tennis Elbow and Pickleball injuries
- How effective is PRP therapy for tennis elbow and pickleball injuries? PRP therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment option for these types of overuse injuries. Studies have reported significant improvements in pain, function, and overall patient satisfaction with PRP therapy compared to other treatment options.
- How long does it take to see results from PRP therapy? The timeline for seeing results can vary, but many patients report a noticeable reduction in pain and improvement in function within 4-6 weeks of the initial PRP injection. However, the full benefits of the treatment may continue to develop over the course of several months.
- Is PRP therapy safe? PRP therapy is considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure, as it uses the patient’s own blood components. The risks are generally low, and may include minor discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
- How many PRP treatments are typically required? The number of treatments required can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s response to the therapy. Some patients may only require a single injection, while others may need 2-3 injections over the course of several weeks or months.
- Is PRP therapy covered by insurance? Insurance coverage for PRP therapy can vary, as it is still considered a relatively new and emerging treatment option. Some insurance providers may cover PRP therapy for certain conditions, while others may consider it an elective or experimental treatment. It is important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.
Is PRP therapy a viable treatment option for Tennis Elbow and Pickleball injuries?
For individuals suffering from tennis elbow or pickleball-related injuries, PRP therapy can be a highly effective and viable treatment option. By harnessing the body’s own healing mechanisms, PRP therapy can promote tissue regeneration, reduce pain and inflammation, and help patients return to their normal activities and sports more quickly.
While PRP therapy may not be the right choice for every patient, the growing body of research and the positive experiences of many patients suggest that it is a promising alternative to traditional treatment options. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if PRP therapy is the right approach for your specific condition and needs.
If you are suffering from tennis elbow or pickleball injuries, consider exploring PRP therapy as a potential treatment option. Contact our team of experts today to learn more about how PRP therapy can help you get back to the activities you love.
Jul 12, 2024
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy is a regenerative medicine technique that utilizes the patient’s own blood to stimulate healing and rejuvenation in various parts of the body. It is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to promote natural healing and tissue repair.
PRP therapy works by extracting a concentrated sample of the patient’s own platelets, which are rich in growth factors and other beneficial proteins. This platelet-rich plasma is then injected back into the targeted area, such as a joint, tendon, or muscle, to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
How does PRP therapy work?
The process of PRP therapy typically involves the following steps:
- Blood draw: A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn, usually from the arm.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, which spins the blood at high speeds to separate the different components, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- Platelet concentration: The platelets are isolated and concentrated, resulting in a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) solution.
- Injection: The PRP solution is then injected back into the targeted area of the body, such as a joint, tendon, or muscle, to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
The growth factors and proteins present in the concentrated platelets are believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, leading to reduced inflammation, improved tissue repair, and enhanced regeneration. PRP therapy is performed in an outpatient setting, such as a clinic or doctor’s office, and typically takes less than an hour.
What conditions can PRP therapy treat?
PRP therapy has been used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendinitis (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis)
- Ligament sprains and tears
- Muscle strains and tears
- Chronic joint pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Meniscus tears
- Degenerative disc disease
PRP therapy can also be used to promote healing and rejuvenation in other areas of the body, such as the skin, hair, and even the face.
What are the benefits of PRP therapy?
The potential benefits of PRP therapy include:
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved joint function and mobility
- Enhanced tissue healing and regeneration
- Delayed or avoided need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery
- Minimally invasive and non-surgical procedure
- Utilizes the patient’s own natural healing abilities
- Can be used in combination with other treatments for synergistic effects
PRP therapy is often considered a safe and effective alternative to more traditional treatments, such as steroid injections or pain medication, for certain musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions.
Is PRP therapy safe?
PRP therapy is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated treatment. Since the PRP solution is derived from the patient’s own blood, there is a very low risk of adverse reactions or rejection. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects, including:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site
- Temporary swelling or bruising
- Infection (rare)
- Nerve damage (rare)
To minimize the risk of complications, PRP therapy should only be performed by experienced, licensed medical professionals with appropriate training. The PRP injection should always be performed with image guidance to ensure accurate delivery of the PRP treatment to the targeted area.
What is the recovery process like after PRP therapy?
The recovery process after PRP therapy can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the location of the injection. In general, patients can expect the following:
- Mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the injection site for the first few days after the procedure
- Temporary swelling or bruising in the treated area
- Restrictions on physical activity for a period of time, as recommended by the healthcare provider
- Gradual improvement in symptoms over the course of several weeks to months
Patients are typically advised to rest the treated area, and they may also be prescribed pain medication if needed. Physical therapy exercises may be recommended to help promote healing and restore function. It’s important for patients to follow the post-treatment instructions provided by their healthcare provider and to report any persistent or worsening symptoms.
How long does it take to see results from PRP therapy?
The time it takes to see results from PRP therapy can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual’s response to the treatment. In general, patients may begin to notice improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks of the procedure, but it can take several months to see the full effects.
Some key factors that can influence the timeline for results include:
- The severity and chronicity of the condition being treated
- The location and extent of the injury or damage
- The patient’s overall health and healing ability
In some cases, patients may require more than one PRP treatment to achieve the desired results. The healthcare provider can provide a more specific timeline based on the individual patient’s case and treatment plan. It’s important for patients to be patient and to follow the recommended treatment plan, as PRP therapy is a regenerative process that takes time to fully take effect.
Is PRP therapy covered by insurance?
Most private insurance companies and Medicare do not cover PRP therapy. In most cases, patients will need to pay for the procedure out-of-pocket. The cost of PRP therapy can vary depending on geographic location, the specific body areas in need of treatment, the use of specialized processing systems to produce the PRP, the use of image guidance to perform the injection, as well as the experience and expertise of the healthcare provider performing the procedure.
Is all PRP therapy the same?
Not all PRP therapy is created equal. There are over 50 different PRP processing systems on the market, which produce different types of PRP. Some systems produce “weaker” PRP which may be insufficient to treat certain orthopedic conditions such as osteoarthritis. It is important to see a health care provider who has expertise in PRP therapy to ensure that you are getting adequate PRP for your condition.
Can PRP therapy be combined with other treatments?
Yes, PRP therapy can often be combined with other treatments to achieve synergistic effects and optimize outcomes. Some common combinations include:
- PRP therapy and physical therapy:
- PRP therapy can be used to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration, while physical therapy can help to restore function, improve range of motion, and strengthen the affected area.
- PRP therapy and shock wave therapy:
-
- In some cases, PRP therapy may be used in conjunction with shock wave therapy, as both can stimulate healing of injured tissues using different mechanisms.
- PRP therapy and other regenerative treatments:
-
- PRP therapy can be combined with other regenerative treatments, such as stem cell therapy or prolotherapy, to further enhance the body’s natural healing and tissue repair processes.
- PRP therapy and surgical procedures:
-
- PRP therapy can be used in conjunction with surgical procedures, such as tendon or ligament repairs, to help promote faster and more effective healing.
The specific combination of treatments will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the healthcare provider’s assessment of the most appropriate and effective approach. It’s important for patients to work closely with their healthcare provider to understand the rationale and potential benefits of any combined treatment plan.
Who is a good candidate for PRP therapy?
PRP therapy may be a good option for individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Suffering from an orthopedic injury or condition, such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or muscle/ligament tears
- Have tried more conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or steroid injections, without achieving satisfactory results
- Are generally healthy and do not have any underlying medical conditions that could interfere with the healing process
- Are willing to commit to the treatment plan, which may include physical therapy, a period of rest, and sometimes more than one PRP treatment
- Are not currently taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, that could interfere with the PRP therapy
- Have realistic expectations about the potential benefits and timeline for results
It’s important to note that PRP therapy may not be suitable for everyone, and the healthcare provider will carefully evaluate each patient’s individual case to determine if it is the most appropriate treatment option.
To learn more about PRP therapy and whether it may be a suitable treatment option for your specific condition, schedule a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in your area. They can provide a personalized assessment and treatment plan to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
Conclusion
PRP therapy is a promising regenerative medicine technique that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to promote natural healing and tissue repair. By utilizing the patient’s own platelets and growth factors, PRP therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and muscle/ligament injuries.
While PRP therapy is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, it is important for patients to work closely with experienced healthcare providers to ensure a successful and effective treatment plan. The recovery process can vary, but most patients can expect to see gradual improvements in their symptoms over the course of several weeks to months.
PRP therapy can also be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy or other regenerative procedures, to optimize the outcome. Patients should carefully evaluate their options and work with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate and cost-effective treatment plan.
Overall, PRP therapy offers a promising and innovative approach to addressing a range of musculoskeletal and soft tissue conditions, and it continues to be an area of active research and clinical investigation.
May 17, 2024
Hand and wrist pain can be a debilitating condition that affects individuals of all ages and activity levels. This type of pain can stem from a variety of causes, including:
- Overuse injuries, such as tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Traumatic injuries, such as sprains, strains, or fractures
- Nerve damage or compression
The severity of hand and wrist pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic pain that significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life. Seeking appropriate treatment is essential for managing and relieving this type of pain.
One innovative treatment option that has gained attention in recent years is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. This regenerative approach offers a promising solution for those seeking to alleviate hand and wrist pain without the need for invasive surgery or long-term medication use.
What is PRP Therapy?
PRP therapy is a non-surgical, regenerative treatment that utilizes the patient’s own blood to promote healing and tissue repair. The process involves the following steps:
- A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn, typically from the arm.
- The blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which separates the various components of the blood, including the platelets.
- The concentrated platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is then extracted and prepared for injection into the affected area.
Platelets are known for their high concentration of growth factors and signaling proteins, which play a crucial role in the body’s natural healing process. By injecting the patient’s own PRP directly into the site of injury or degeneration, PRP therapy aims to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, leading to reduced pain and improved function.
How does PRP Therapy work for Hand & Wrist Pain?
PRP therapy has been found to be particularly effective in treating various types of hand and wrist pain, including:
- Osteoarthritis of the thumb, fingers, or wrist
- Tendinitis, such as de Quervain’s tenosynovitis or tennis elbow
- Ligament sprains or tears
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Chronic wrist pain
The growth factors and other bioactive molecules present in the PRP can help to:
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Stimulate the regeneration of damaged or degenerated tissues
- Improve blood flow and circulation to the affected area
- Promote the formation of new, healthy tissue
By targeting the root cause of the pain, PRP therapy can provide long-lasting relief and potentially delay or even prevent the need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery.
Benefits of PRP Therapy for Hand & Wrist Pain
PRP therapy offers several key benefits for individuals suffering from hand and wrist pain:
- Minimally Invasive: PRP therapy is a non-surgical treatment that does not require general anesthesia or lengthy recovery times.
- Utilizes the Body’s Natural Healing Process: By using the patient’s own blood, PRP therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing capabilities to promote tissue repair and regeneration.
- Potential for Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients experience significant and long-lasting pain relief and improved function following PRP therapy.
- Reduced Risk of Complications: PRP therapy has a low risk of adverse effects, as it uses the patient’s own biological materials.
- Avoidance of Opioid Medications: PRP therapy can provide pain relief without the need for addictive opioid medications.
Recovery and Results of PRP Therapy for Hand & Wrist Pain
The recovery process following PRP therapy for hand and wrist pain can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual’s response to the treatment. In general, patients can expect the following:
- Immediate Post-Treatment: Patients may experience some mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs.
- Short-Term Recovery: Most patients can resume light, non-strenuous activities within a few days to a week, as tolerated.
- Long-Term Recovery: The full benefits of PRP therapy, such as reduced pain and improved function, may take several weeks to several months to become fully apparent, as the body’s natural healing process is stimulated.
The results of PRP therapy for hand and wrist pain can be quite promising, with many patients reporting significant improvements in their symptoms and a reduced need for pain medication or other interventions. However, it’s important to note that individual results may vary, and some patients may require multiple treatments or a combination of therapies to achieve the desired outcomes.
Alternative Treatments for Hand & Wrist Pain
In addition to PRP therapy, there are several other treatment options available for individuals with hand and wrist pain, including:
- Conservative Treatments:
- Rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and hand/wrist exercises
- Splinting or bracing to immobilize the affected area
- Corticosteroid Injections:
-
- Provide temporary relief of inflammation and pain
- May be used in conjunction with other therapies
- Surgical Interventions:
-
- Arthroscopic or open surgical procedures to repair or remove damaged tissues
- May be considered for severe, chronic, or unresponsive cases
It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the individual’s specific condition, symptoms, and overall health.
Is PRP Therapy right for you?
If you are struggling with persistent hand or wrist pain, PRP therapy may be a viable treatment option worth considering. To determine if PRP therapy is the right choice for you, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in regenerative medicine or orthopedic care.
During the consultation, your provider will:
- Perform a comprehensive evaluation to assess the underlying cause of your pain
- Review your medical history and any previous treatments you have tried
- Discuss the potential benefits and risks of PRP therapy, as well as any alternative treatment options
- Develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals
If you are interested in exploring PRP therapy for your hand or wrist pain, schedule a consultation with our team of experts today. We are dedicated to providing innovative, evidence-based treatments that can help you regain your quality of life and get back to the activities you enjoy. Contact us now to learn more and take the first step towards lasting pain relief.
Dec 22, 2023
Betty is an exceptional physical therapist who takes care of orthopedic patients. She has knee osteoarthritis and trusted the care of Dr. Ambach and her team to treat her knees. She had an excellent response to platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment in keeping her knees healthy, managing her pain and supporting her highly active lifestyle.”
I can not say enough about how excellent the care is at SanDiego Orthobiologics. I am a PT and often refer patients here with the utmost confidence for consultations and injections. I have personally undergone PRP injections for my knees with Dr Ambach. She is extremely knowledgable, caring and professional. I have had good results treating mild to moderate arthritis and highly recommend to anyone experiencing orthopedic problems that limit their daily life.
– by Betty Parmenter on Sat Dec 16, 2023
Nov 17, 2023
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis in the shoulder, knee, hip, or thumb. But when it comes to the use of platelet-rich plasma therapy to treat joint pain, one size does not fit all. To reach its maximum benefit, PRP should be customized to the specific joint or tissue being treated.
How PRP Works for Joint Pain
Platelet rich plasma is an FDA compliant treatment where a small amount of the patient’s own blood is drawn and then spun in a centrifuge to isolate and concentrate the platelets from the blood sample. The concentrated platelets release numerous growth factors that help to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing and repair of injured cartilage and tissues. Experienced regenerative medicine specialists know how to determine the correct formulation needed and then use ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to deliver this customized platelet rich plasma concentration directly to the joint in need of treatment. Sometimes the tendons and ligaments around the joint need to be treated as well.
Key Factors that Impact Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
We’ve already stated that PRP needs to be customized to the specific joint being treated, but there are other factors that also play a role in successful treatment. These include:
- Diet: Because the platelets are drawn from the patient’s own body, their quality can be highly influenced by the patient’s diet. A folate-rich diet or a diet rich in berries, such as blueberries, may help boost platelet count in a patient’s blood.
- Medications: Patients may be advised to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (Advil, Aleve, etc.), blood thinners or other medications that interfere with platelet function.
- Targeted Delivery: Some practices simply inject PRP into the joint without using any image guidance. This is quite literally “stabbing in the dark.” The best results occur when the treatment is delivered specifically to the damaged area using image guidance.
- Technology: Many practices offering PRP do not have the highly specialized equipment necessary to process the patient’s blood so they can receive the highest levels of growth factors and proteins that promote tissue repair.
- The extent of the damage or injury: All patients require a thorough history, physical exam, and imaging studies to determine if their joint is appropriate for PRP treatment. Occasionally, damage to the joint in question may be too advanced for PRP to be considered a viable treatment option.
How Effective is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been practiced for years, having been one of the first biologic therapies used to treat orthopedic conditions. It is both art and science: art in the skill and expertise of knowing exactly where to deliver the treatment; and science in knowing how to formulate a specifically customized concentration of PRP to achieve maximum benefit.
When administered correctly under the right protocols, most patients gain relief within four to six weeks following PRP therapy and do not require any additional care.
And since the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, there is no need for hospitalization or lengthy rehab. Nothing more than ice and rest are needed to minimize discomfort as the body begins to heal itself immediately after the injection, and patients are often able to resume normal activities within days. Physical therapy may also be recommended to regain joint mobility and strength.
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