How Does PRP Therapy Work to Relieve Joint Pain?
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Want to know how to help relieve joint pain without resorting to invasive surgery? Platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP, may be the answer. This innovative treatment can help stimulate the body's natural healing response to address issues like joint inflammation and lack of mobility.
Dr. Christie Lehman can provide more information about PRP and how it works during a consultation in Asheville, NC. Call Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to schedule an appointment today. Start your journey toward virtually pain-free living.
Are you experiencing joint pain?
Joint pain can have many causes, including age and natural wear and tear, overuse injuries, or degenerative diseases like arthritis. For others, it stems from acute injuries like sprains or fractures. Unfortunately, joint pain can make everyday tasks — like walking, bending, or sitting — challenging and even painful. In severe cases, a lack of mobility can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which may have a negative impact on your health and well-being.
In the past, surgery was often the first option for treating conditions related to joint pain. These procedures can be effective, but they also come with risks and long recovery times. Many people hope to find an alternative that doesn't require going under the knife.
Introducing platelet-rich plasma therapy
If you want to know how to relieve joint pain without surgery, platelet-rich plasma therapy is an option worth considering. It involves using a small sample of blood from your own body, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets.
Platelets have growth factors that can help promote the body's natural ability to enhance itself. The concentrated solution is administered through simple injections into the damaged area, meaning no incisions or anesthesia are necessary.
The advantages of PRP therapy
There are many reasons to choose PRP injections for concerns like joint inflammation and more:
- Nonsurgical: As mentioned, PRP therapy involves simple injections, making it a minimally invasive treatment option.
- Quick recovery time: Compared to surgery, which can take weeks or even months of healing, PRP therapy has a relatively quick recovery time.
- Long-term results: Rather than just masking symptoms, platelet-rich plasma therapy aims to address the root cause of joint pain. This can lead to long-term relief and better joint function.
- Low risk of complications: Since PRP uses your own blood, there is no risk of rejection or adverse reactions. It also reduces the risk of infection, which is a common concern with surgery.
Seeing results with PRP
It's normal to feel a bit of tenderness or soreness after PRP injections in Asheville, NC, but side effects usually fade within a few days. Most patients can jump right back into normal routines unless they're recovering from a serious injury. In some cases, you may notice a brief flare-up as your body starts responding to the treatment. Taking an extra day or two to rest can help. You'll likely start to see improvements within 4 – 6 weeks, with the optimal results typically showing up around the 6 – 9 month mark.
Learn how to relieve joint pain with PRP injections
Joint inflammation and lack of mobility don't have to be a constant struggle. PRP therapy offers a natural, minimally invasive option for managing these issues. Book a consultation with Dr. Christie Lehman at Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine today to learn about PRP. Our Asheville, NC team is dedicated to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life.