Chronic joint pain can be debilitating. Even if the joint feels stable enough to hold weight, it may be so painful that your mobility is affected. Common treatments for chronic joint pain include physical therapy, and many doctors recommend surgery when physical therapy fails. But now there is a new treatment that when combined with physical therapy can help you avoid surgery and decrease your pain level.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy is a valid treatment option for most chronic joint pain. Stem cells are collected from the patient’s own body and injected into the affected joint. The stem cells, once activated, can actually reverse the damage done to joints due to arthritis or repetitive use. They enter into the joint and work to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. When combined with physical therapy, stem cell therapy can decrease pain while strengthening the joint.
PRP Treatment
PRP stands for platelet rich plasma, and it can be used in conjunction with stem cell therapy or on its own. Blood is drawn from the patient and placed in a centrifuge where the platelets are concentrated. These concentrated platelets are then suspended in your plasma and injected into the affected joint. PRP on its own can activate stem cells in a joint to decrease pain. PRP can also be used with stem cell therapy to activate and direct the stem cells where they need to go.
If you have chronic joint pain and have been told you might need surgery, contact us today for more information on how we can help you avoid it. Call today to schedule an appointment.