Approximately 25% of American adults have some form of arthritis, and it is estimated that at least 50% of Americans will develop osteoarthritis (OA) over the course of their lives. Patients who have arthritis want to improve their joint function, relieve pain, and slow down or stop the progression of this potentially debilitating condition.
Your orthopedic specialist offers osteoarthritis treatments which meet these goals, and one of the most popular treatments for arthritis today is PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy. Let’s talk about how PRP therapy works to resolve arthritis pain, and where you can go in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes for reliable PRP treatment to provide long-lasting relief of your joint pain.
How Does Arthritis Cause Joint Pain?
In osteoarthritis – also called wear-and-tear arthritis, or bone-on-bone arthritis – a patient experiences joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and varying degrees of dysfunction because the protective cartilage in the joint has worn down. Because the cartilage is too thin, the bones in the joint rub together during movement – and when this happens, it causes painful inflammation in the bones.
While osteoarthritis can happen to many joints in the body, some of the most common sites are the weight-bearing ones – the knees, ankles, and hips. Without a medical evaluation and treatment by a trusted orthopedic doctor, arthritis symptoms usually escalate and become worse.
How Does PRP Therapy Work?
Many patients with arthritis benefit from an innovative injection treatment called PRP treatment. Your orthopedic doctor will help you determine whether this treatment would be right for you.
The PRP treatment has a wonderful track record in patients who have mild to moderate osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee. What makes it so special is that the injections are derived from a small sample of your very own blood.
To prepare the PRP injection treatment, your orthopedic specialist will take a blood sample via your arm like a usual blood draw. The physician then spins the sample in a lab centrifuge to separate the liquid plasma from the blood platelets and the red and white blood cells. Then, the doctor will take the platelets and the plasma into a syringe, and then inject the highly concentrated solution directly into the painful joint.
This PRP treatment will stimulate the body’s own natural healing processes in the area. Platelets contain proteins called growth factors, and these elements effectively reduce inflammation and increase soft-tissue repair (in tendons, ligaments, and cartilage).
Especially when combined with physical therapy, patients experience improved mobility and decreased joint pain. It is widely believed in the medical community that the platelet-rich plasma preparation actually changes the pain receptors in the joint.
Who Can Receive PRP Therapy?
Adults who are basically healthy and have mild to moderate osteoarthritis are excellent candidates for PRP treatment. Disqualifying conditions are active cancer, serious neurological problems (such as ALS), and blood disorders such as anemia or HIV.
PRP Treatment in Pembroke Pines and Lauderdale Lakes
Here at Total Orthopaedic Care, Dr. Hajianpour, Dr. Feanny, Dr. Sheikh, and Dr. Berkowitz are our PRP therapy experts. If you would like to have a consultation with one of our physicians to find out whether your arthritis pain could be alleviated by PRP treatment, contact us today at (954) 735-3535 or fill out our appointment request form online. We look forward to helping you tamp down your arthritis pain!
