While cortisone injections have often been used diminish the pain associated with damaged tissues and joints, they are unable to provide any regenerative benefit. Cortisone reduces swelling and pain by inhibiting protein metabolism, which shuts down inflamed cells that are actively turning over.
Unfortunately, this action also reduces activity in normal cells and tissues, which leads to weakening of the tissues. Repeat cortisone injections are not recommended because they can lead to damage of the articular cartilage surfaces, which protect the joint surfaces of bones. Cortisone injections therefore only mask the symptoms of the orthopaedic condition rather than helping to heal the damaged tissue, which can often lead to further damage.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) / platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) therapy offers a favourable alternative to cortisone injections by improving function and decreasing pain while accelerating or promoting healing.
What is PRP/PRF Therapy?
Treatment using the injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) / platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a form of regenerative medicine. PRP / PRF is a concentrate of platelets and plasma derived from your own blood, and is used to deliver high levels of platelet-associated growth factors and bioactive molecules in the treatment of orthopaedic conditions, such as osteoarthritis and tendonitis.
What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
Osteoarthritis is the most common occurring type of arthritis that often affects the knee joint. In a healthy joint, cartilage provides cushioning between the bones. As continuous wear or trauma occurs, the cartilage layer becomes thinner or frayed. Osteoarthritis is damage done to the joint over time. Osteoarthritis causes pain, limits mobility and reduces the ability to enjoy daily activities. Osteoarthritis affects many other joints of the body including hips, shoulders, elbows, spine and hands and feet,
The Stages of Osteoarthritis
Early OA
During the early stage of osteoarthritis, the cartilage begins to wear down. Symptoms are mild, and may include pain that comes and goes.
Moderate OA
During the moderate stage of osteoarthritis, joint fluid may lose its ability to lubricate and cushion the affected joint. This results in more substantial pain and difficulties with movement.
Late OA
Once the late stage of osteoarthritis has been reached, areas of cartilage may have totally worn away. Bones begin to rub against each other, causing more significant pain to be experienced.
How does PRP / PRF work?
PRP / PRF creates a plasma that contains a significantly higher percentage of platelets than what is typically found in blood. Platelets are most commonly known for their clotting ability, but they also contain over two hundred thousand proteins called growth factors (GF) which have the ability to send signals to cells to trigger the healing process. The increased concentration of growth factors found in PRP / PRF help trigger cell reproduction and stimulate tissue regeneration and repair.
The PRP / PRF Therapy Process
A small amount of a blood is drawn from the patient's arm. The blood sample will be placed in a centrifuge and spun in order to separate the PRP / PRF from other elements. The area receiving the PRP / PRF injection will first be frozen with a local anesthetic. The platelet-rich plasma will then be injected directly into the area of concern.
What can PRP / PRF injections treat?
PRP can be used in o treat various orthopaedic conditions, including:
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Osteoarthritis / degenerative changes
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Tendonitis / ligament injuries
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Inflammation / pain in muscles
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Joint capsule pain
Is PRP / PRF right for me?
You may be a good candidate for PRP / PRF Therapy if you’re experiencing:
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Mild to moderate osteoarthritis (in most joints, but especially knees, hips, or shoulders)
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Lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer’s elbow)
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Rotator cuff tendonitis or partial tears
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Other common tendon, muscle and ligament issues
Medications and Supplements to Avoid with PRP / PRF Therapy
The ability of your platelets to create these changes can be adversely affected by certain medications. Avoid the following medications 10 days before and 10 days after PRP / PRF treatment to optimize the effect of treatment:
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Aspirin
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All NSAID's (Advil, Ibuprophen, Naproxen, Toradol, etc.)
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Inhibitors of ADP (Plavix etc.)
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Antibiotics (such as: Penicillins (Pen V. Amoxil, etc), Cephalosporins (Keflex, etc), Carbapenum antibiotics, and Monolactams).
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Quinidine
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Calcium channel blockers
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Vitamin E
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Arnica
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Multivitamins
Take the Next Step
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