How Can PRP Treat My Chronic Pain?

Are you suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain? Whether it’s low back pain or painful knee arthritis, you’re seeking an answer that provides more relief than a six-hour pain pill.

Doctors and scientists are seeking the most effective therapies in treating chronic low back pain and arthritis, in part because of their economic impact. Chronic low back pain is the No. 1 cause of workplace disability in the United States as well as the top cause of disability worldwide.

Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine stay abreast of the latest advances in musculoskeletal diseases and treatments.

One of the most promising treatments in recent years is the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. PRP treatment uses your own blood, so it’s low risk. We draw your blood, isolate the platelets in it, and inject it at the painful site.

How can PRP alleviate my chronic pain?

PRP’s mass of platelets contains concentrations of growth factors, molecules that stimulate cell growth, and cytokines, which are materials that cells produce and can affect other cells.

Researchers and doctors have found that PRP stimulates cell growth and increases the number of cells with high levels of nutrients and growth factors. These masses of cells work together to trigger cell and tissue repair, whether it’s damaged nerves, stenosis, or another degenerative condition — perhaps in your spine or arthritis in your knees.

PRP has a promising role in tissue repair and even tissue regeneration. It provides an additional option if traditional therapies don’t work, and it may help postpone or eliminate the need for surgery.

Is PRP effective in reducing my pain level?

Doctors and researchers have found that PRP works well for many people, but not for everyone. It depends in part on your specific musculoskeletal condition and your overall health.

Research on PRP is still in its infancy, but studies show that patients in treatment groups garner significant pain reduction on measures such as pain intensity and ability to function. That’s what you’re looking for.

While research isn’t definitive yet, current results show that it’s a very promising treatment for chronic low back pain. Many studies support its use for knee arthritis.

Researchers are excited about the future of PRP in orthopedics. They believe its role in repairing tissue could lead it to become an accepted therapy to help stop the progression of disc degeneration in patients’ backs. That would be a game changer in orthopedics.

The advantages of PRP

PRP has numerous advantages. First and foremost, it can reduce your pain. There are other significant benefits.

No side effects like drugs

If you’ve been relying on pain medication that doesn’t work well and produces side effects, you may be able to reduce your dose — or eliminate it. You won’t be tied to your pillbox.