Should You Try PRP Therapy for Arthritis? (or Not)
Arthritis is a prevalent ailment that affects many people, particularly the elderly. It causes joint discomfort, stiffness, and swelling, making daily tasks like walking and using your hand difficult. It can have a significant influence on your overall quality of life.
One exciting and relatively new treatment for arthritis is PRP therapy. This treatment helps to relieve pain and enhance joint function.
Today, we will give you all the info you need about PRP treatment for arthritis. We’ll explain what it is, how it works, and if it’s beneficial for arthritis or not.
What is PRP Therapy?
PRP is a medical treatment that uses your blood to help with different health problems, like arthritis. PRP consists of three significant components: white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. All these components help reduce pain and inflammation in your arthritic joint.
What Types of Arthritis Can PRP Manage?
PRP injections for arthritis can help manage the following types of arthritis,
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Hip Osteoarthritis
- Shoulder Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriatic Arthritis (in some cases)
How PRP Therapy Works?
Our blood has thrombocytes, called platelets, which help in the body’s healing process. PRP treatment removes these platelets from the blood to inject into the affected joint.
- First, the doctor draws a tiny blood sample from your body.
- After that, the machine spins the blood to separate platelets.
- Finally, the doctor injects the concentrated platelets back into the arthritic joint.
Does PRP work for arthritis? Platelets act as small repairmen for your joints. When they enter the joint, they release growth factors. These substances help reduce swelling and promote natural healing in the joints.
Should You Try PRP Therapy for Arthritis?
Platelet-rich plasma injections work well for arthritis, but their effectiveness depends on the type and severity of the condition. Remember, PRP is not a cure for arthritis, but it can help reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the arthritis joint.
Also, PRP is not beneficial in the late stages of arthritis. People with severe arthritis need multiple treatments, and the outcomes may differ from person to person.
The Recovery Process After PRP
The recovery period after PRP for arthritis is an essential step towards better joint function. Patients should expect a time of recovery and adjustment after receiving this treatment. Let’s have a look at the recovery process following PRP therapy for arthritis,
- Immediate Post Procedure: There may be some swelling and slight pain at the injection site. However, you may quickly go home after the procedure.
- First Few Days: Rest and protect the treated joint for a few days after the operation. You may suffer discomfort and swelling, but it will disappear with time.
- Recovery Time: The healing time varies among people. It may take several weeks to months to recover completely.
Tips for Smooth Recovery
To enhance joint recovery, individuals must follow several lifestyle tips, which include,
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding post-procedure care.
- Use your joints sparingly, and give them rest.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers on doctor’s recommendation
- Involve your joints in mild physical therapy
- Drink enough amount of water to stay hydrated
Also read, Can viscosupplementation therapy treat arthritis?
Risks and Considerations of PRP
Potential Risks
Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) is an effective treatment to promote healing in arthritis. However, it would help if you remember that this procedure carries some potential risks.
- Local Infection: PRP injection can cause the risk of minor infection at the injection site, says Stanford Healthcare.
- Allergic Reactions: An allergic reaction may also occur due to PRP therapy. This allergy is mild and goes away after some time of treatment.
Choosing the Right Healthcare Professional
Choosing a skilled and experienced healthcare professional for arthritis management is critical. Locate a physician who specializes in PRP treatment. Also, ensure that they have the necessary training and certificates.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
PRP therapy can be costly, and insurance often does not cover it. It means you will have to pay for it on your own. Here are some tips to help you with cost-related problems,
- Check your Insurance: Inquire your insurance company about PRP treatment coverage, as some plans only cover part of the cost.
- Understand the Cost: Ask your doctor about the overall cost of the therapy, including any additional expenses.
- Budget Wisely: Create a budget and save for your PRP therapy if insurance does not cover it. It will make it easier for you to manage your costs.
- Compare Clinics: Don’t hesitate to request quotations from different clinics. Prices might differ, so check around to find the best offer according to your budget.
Alternatives of PRP Therapy for Arthritis
Various treatments are available for finding relief from arthritis pain. Platelet-rich plasma treatment is one such therapy. Learning more ways to manage arthritis is important, each with its pros and cons.
1. Medications
- Pros: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicines can help control arthritic symptoms by lowering pain and inflammation.
- Cons: They may create adverse side effects and do not address the root cause of arthritis.
2. Physical Therapy
- Pros: Physical therapy can make life easier for people with arthritis by improving their joint flexibility, strength, and function.
- Cons: It takes time and effort, and the outcomes may differ from person to person.
3. Surgery
- Pros: The National Institute of Health says that if all other treatments fail to give results, doctors can perform surgery. It provides long-term comfort by replacing damaged joints.
- Cons: Surgery is an invasive procedure, and it necessitates a lengthier recovery period.
How Can SNS Help You Manage Arthritis?
Do you want arthritis management that too on a budget? Consider SNS rheumatology; our expert provides the best and most tailored treatment to your needs. Book a consultation and get expert advice related to arthritis now.
The Final Words
Should you try PRP therapy for arthritis? PRP therapy for arthritis can help relieve pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the affected joint. However, it is not the complete cure for arthritis, especially if you are at a later stage. If you have arthritis, see a rheumatologist for the best treatment based on your condition.
Meet Dr. Qaisar Usmani, a Board Certified Rheumatologist with over 20 years of experience in the field, currently serving as Section Chief at Monmouth Medical Center and GPHA, Inc. in Pennsylvania, specializing in the treatment of various Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal diseases.
Meet Dr. Sadia Ghafoor, a board certified specialist in rheumatology who completed her medical training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry School of Osteopathic Medicine and her fellowship in rheumatology at the State University of New York Stony Brook campus, with additional board certification in internal medicine.
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