Hence, this article describes how PRP works, which knee conditions are treated, its effectiveness, and its benefits in detail. Additionally, the discussion revolves around the potential efficacy of PRP as the best knee pain treatment alternative for osteoarthritis (OA).
Understanding PRP Therapy
PRP therapy, also known as platelet-rich plasma therapy, is a medical treatment that utilizes a patient’s own blood to stimulate healing and promote tissue regeneration. The procedure involves extracting a small amount of blood from the patient, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma back into the affected area. PRP therapy for acne scars treatment has gained popularity in recent times. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as sports injuries, osteoarthritis, chronic wounds, and certain types of hair loss.Conditions Treated with the Best PRP Therapy
Some knee conditions commonly managed with the best PRP therapy include:- Knee osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis including patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee) and quadriceps tendonitis
- Ligament injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears or sprains
- Meniscus tears
- Patellofemoral syndrome
The PRP Therapy Procedure
- Initially, the doctor will extract a small quantity of blood from your arm.
- Subsequently, the blood sample will be placed in a centrifuge to segregate the parts and obtain a dense mixture consisting of platelets within the plasma.
- Following this step, the doctor will numb your knee and administers the PRP into the knee joint space under ultrasound guidance.
- After a period of rest, you will be allowed to leave and return home. It is advisable to arrange for someone to drive you home, as there could be little pain and stiffness after the injection.
Effectiveness and Benefits
The blood platelets contain growth factors that can potentially aid in tissue repair and promote the formation of new cells. By injecting PRP growth factors derived from an individual’s own blood into an injured area, scientists believe it may be possible to reverse existing tissue damage. A 2017 review found that PRP could potentially be effective in reducing pain scores and improving physical function with minor side effects. However, this knee pain treatment alternative has a quick recovery period and patients can return to their homes on the same day. There is no risk of allergy or rejection issues.Comparing the best PRP Therapy with Other Knee Pain Treatments
PRP vs. Surgery:
In certain instances, surgery may be the sole recourse, yet we maintain that its utilization is often excessive. Remarkably, your body possesses the capacity to heal itself given the appropriate stimulus, which is precisely what a PRP injection accomplishes. The outcome of surgery typically entails a span of 2-3 months characterized by complete inactivity. Conversely, a PRP injection can have you on your feet and mobile within a matter of weeks. While surgical measures are often upheld as an outstanding long-term solution, extensive studies on PRP usage demonstrate similarly impressive outcomes. Moreover, you sidestep the perils and exorbitant expenses associated with surgery.PRP vs. Medication:
In situations where joint pain or muscle recovery is concerned, it is common for doctors to prescribe steroids. However, if you are a competitive athlete, you are aware of the potential risks and consequences associated with these medications. Moreover, even for the average person, these pharmaceuticals can result in harmful side effects. In contrast, PRP offers a much safer knee pain treatment alternative as it utilizes the components present in your own body to facilitate healing. Furthermore, while medication may provide quick relief, its effects are often short-lived. On the other hand, opting for PRP treatment eliminates the need to rely on pharmaceuticals for functioning, preventing any potential dependency.PRP vs. Steroids:
PRP injections involve the injection of platelet-rich plasma into the affected knee joint. The platelets contain growth factors that can stimulate tissue healing and regeneration, potentially reducing pain, stiffness, and overall function. Steroid injections, on the other hand, involve injecting corticosteroids directly into the knee joint. They can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. However, they do not have regenerative properties like PRP.Conclusion
If your arthritis prevents you from enjoying your favorite activities, Medica Stem Cells Clinic can assist. Discover how our PRP therapy could be the solution to your joint discomfort and proves to be the best knee pain treatment alternative. Other Frequently Added QuestionsAs mentioned already, PRP therapy, the best knee pain treatment alternative, manages knee osteoarthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries, meniscus tears, and patellofemoral syndrome.
The use of PRP involves using your own blood, making it likely to be safe. Nevertheless, there are certain minor short-term risks such as mild local infection, pain, stiffness, and swelling at the injection site.
No, the PRP injections are mostly painless. The administration process only takes a few seconds.
As the best knee pain treatment alternative, PRP injections are a safe and effective treatment for patients with mild to moderate symptomatic knee OA. Within 2-6 weeks of receiving a PRP injection, patients experience improved pain scores and knee function.
However, PRP therapy with physical therapy helps to accelerate the recovery process compared to PRP alone. Follow-up injections may be recommended to maintain optimal outcomes. A 2022 study reported that PRP injections can reduce pain and improve quality of life and functional scores at the 6-month mark, especially for moderate knee OA cases.
