Can PRP Help My Arthritic Joints?

If you suffer from arthritis, you know the joint inflammation, pain, and swelling can really slow you down and threaten your quality of life. In fact, research from the Arthritis Foundation names arthritis as the leading cause of disability in the United States. 

At LA Orthopaedic Specialists, you have access to a groundbreaking arthritis treatment called platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Our team specializes in arthritis and this revolutionary protocol and explains more about how it can help you. First, let’s take a closer look at arthritis and how it impacts your joints.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an umbrella term to describe more than 200 conditions that negatively affect your joints. Some of the most common forms are osteoarthritis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. Telltale arthritis symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Limited range of motion

For most people, the symptoms are intermittent and can range from mild to severe.

Are you at risk of developing arthritis?

While the exact cause of arthritis is unknown, you may be at a higher risk of developing it if you’re a:

• Senior 
• Woman
• Overweight
• Family member of someone with arthritis

In addition, if you’re an athlete or you’ve suffered sports injuries, your chances of developing arthritis are higher.

Treating arthritis with PRP therapy

Our team uses PRP therapy to treat arthritis by capitalizing on your body’s innate healing properties. To perform the simple, in-office procedure, she draws a sample of your blood, separates the platelets in a centrifuge machine, and reintroduces the concentrated plasma directly into the joint that’s giving you trouble. 

What are the benefits of PRP therapy?

The concentrated PRP is rich in growth factors that go to work to slow the progression of your specific type of arthritis. PRP therapy:

• Reduces inflammation
• Increases flexibility
• Alleviates pain
• Encourages new cartilage growth

PRP therapy also amps up your body’s production of fluids that lubricate your joints, significantly decreasing stiffness.

Is PRP therapy right for me?

PRP therapy is growing in popularity because it is safe and nonsurgical, and works for most people. You’re a good candidate if:

• Other treatments weren’t helpful
• Physical therapy didn’t improve your flexibility
• You don’t have cancer
• Aren’t on heavy doses of blood thinners
• Pain medication doesn’t relieve your pain

You don’t have to suffer from arthritis. Put an end to your pain with innovative PRP therapy. To learn more about it and to determine if it’s right for you, call the office to book a consultation or go online.