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Biologics: PRP Therapy & Joint Fluid Therapy
At Southern California Orthopedic Surgeons, we are dedicated to offering the latest, non-surgical treatments to help our patients heal naturally. Our biologic therapies, including Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy and Joint Fluid Therapy, are cutting-edge solutions that promote healing, reduce pain, and improve joint function for patients dealing with orthopedic injuries or degenerative conditions like arthritis.
What Are Biologics?
Biologics are natural, regenerative treatments that use the body’s own healing mechanisms to treat injuries, relieve pain, and improve joint function. These therapies offer an alternative to surgery, allowing many patients to avoid or delay invasive procedures.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Blood is primarily composed of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets carried by a liquid called plasma. The primary responsibility of platelets is to help blood to clot. Platelets also contain several important proteins including growth factors which can help to promote tissue healing and cytokines which signal different cellular functions.
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is made by taking a sample of the patient’s blood and spinning it in a centrifuge. This separates the platelets from other blood cells. When combined with plasma, the PRP mixture that results has a five to ten-fold increased concentration of platelets. The process can be done in the office setting and takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The PRP can then be injected back into the body at various sites. The theory is that this high concentration of growth factors and other chemicals can contribute to tissue healing and subsequent pain relief.
Benefits of PRP Therapy:
- Accelerated Healing: PRP injections stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, speeding up recovery from injuries.
- Reduced Pain: PRP can help reduce inflammation and pain in conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and ligament injuries.
- Non-Surgical: PRP Therapy is minimally invasive and can often delay or eliminate the need for surgery.
- Natural Treatment: Since PRP uses your own blood, there is minimal risk of adverse reactions.
Conditions Treated with PRP Therapy:
- Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, shoulder, etc.)
- Tendon Injuries (tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis)
- Ligament Sprains
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Muscle Strains
- Sports Injuries
Joint Fluid Therapy (Viscosupplementation)
Joint Fluid Therapy, also known as viscosupplementation, is a treatment used to relieve joint pain, particularly in patients with osteoarthritis. This therapy involves injecting hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in joint fluid, directly into the affected joint. Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber in the joints, helping to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance joint function.
Benefits of Joint Fluid Therapy:
- Pain Relief: Joint fluid therapy provides long-lasting relief from the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.
- Improved Mobility: By replenishing the joint’s natural lubrication, this therapy can improve movement and reduce discomfort during daily activities.
- Non-Surgical Option: Like PRP, joint fluid therapy is minimally invasive and can delay the need for joint replacement surgery.
- Quick and Convenient: The procedure is performed in the office and typically takes just a few minutes, allowing you to return to normal activities quickly.
Conditions Treated with Joint Fluid Therapy:
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, shoulder, or other joints
- Joint Pain from wear and tear or age-related degeneration
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis following injury
Is Biologics Therapy Right for You?
Biologics like PRP Therapy and Joint Fluid Therapy are ideal for patients looking to relieve pain and restore function without undergoing surgery. These treatments are especially beneficial for those with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, or joint degeneration. If you’ve tried traditional treatments like medications, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections without success, biologic therapies could be a natural next step in your treatment plan.
If you’re interested in learning more about Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy or Joint Fluid Therapy, contact Southern California Orthopedic Surgeons to schedule a consultation. Let us help you explore the benefits of biologics and find the best treatment to relieve your pain and restore joint function.