Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Knee Treatment in Cary, NC
Knee Degeneration & Trauma
The knee is the largest joint in the body and is responsible for rotating movements between the upper and lower legs. In order for the knee joint to function properly, a layer of cartilage composed mainly of collagen fibers covers the opposing bone areas. This cushion allows the knees to move easily and without friction. Knee degeneration from osteoarthritis, or trauma from an injury like a meniscus tear or injury to the patellar tendon, can greatly impact collagen in the knee area and the knee's function, leading to pain and immobility.
Fortunately, an innovative procedure using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is available that can help those suffering from knee concerns. PRP treatment has been demonstrated to have an anti-inflammatory and reparative effect on the cartilage and tendons, resulting in a significant reduction in pain. PRP has also been shown to prevent further knee deterioration. PRP injections are an attractive knee surgery alternative as well as an alternative to medication, as these injections offer a safe treatment option with minimal risks and no side effects.
If you are struggling with knee pain, schedule a consultation with a healthcare practitioner in Cary who specializes in PRP knee treatment. Call (919) 301-0841 or contact Dr. Bhavna Vaidya-Tank online.
How Do PRP Knee Injections Work?
PRP utilizes your own blood in order to deliver a high concentration of platelets via injections directly into the knee where osteoarthritis or injury is present. Platelets are a component of blood that are known as the 'first-responders' in the presence of injury. Platelets help stop bleeding, promote new cell growth and construct new tissue. PRP is also known for its rich supply of growth factors. Growth factors promote healing potential in degenerating joint cartilage as they stimulate cellular growth, collagen synthesis and tissue regeneration.
Studies that have examined the specific therapeutic mechanisms behind PRP knee injections have found that PRP treatment:
- Decreases the progression of OA by reducing inflammation
- Increases the production of new cartilage
- Enhances the production of lubricating joint fluid such as hyaluronic acid
- Reduces the sensation of pain
What to Expect During Your PRP Knee Procedure
For patients in whom knee pain from OA, tendon or meniscus injuries significantly affects their quality of life or have failed to see an improvement with conventional treatment such as steroid injections, physical therapy, or anti-inflammatory medications, PRP injections should be considered as a safe out-patient procedure.
A typical PRP treatment procedure may take 45 to 90 minutes and requires a blood draw. The blood is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets and is then injected directly into the knee joint. The number of injections required for each person depends solely on the extent of the OA or injury in the knee(s). For milder cases, a single injection will do. For more advanced cases, a series of injections may be given over the course of weeks or months.
Because knee PRP therapy is derived from the plasma of one's own blood and utilizes the natural healing properties of plasma, it is a natural form of treatment and carries few risks. Some people may experience light pain at the injection site, but this typically disappears within a week of treatment.
PRP treatment is best used in combination with lifestyle changes such as physical therapy and weight loss. If you suffer from OA of the knees, tendon or meniscus injuries, a customized protocol can be determined to help address your specific needs. For additional information on PRP for knee pain, call (919) 301-0841 or contact Dr. Bhavna Vaidya-Tank online.
Family Wellness Clinic & Regenesis MD
Address
8020 Creedmoor RdRaleigh, NC 27613
(919) 301-0841
www.regenesismd.com