PRP for Shoulder Arthritis Relief: What You Need to Know
Are you experiencing pain and stiffness in one or both shoulders? Do simple tasks like reaching for items or raising your arm seem impossible? You may be suffering from shoulder arthritis. This degenerative joint disease is characterized by the wearing away of the cartilage in the shoulder joint. While medications and therapy provide some relief, many people turn to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections as a longer-lasting and more natural solution.
So, what are PRP injections, and how do they work in New York City, NY? Call Ospina Medical to book an appointment with Dr. Matthew Kohler. We've helped countless people through this state-of-the-art treatment for shoulder pain.
Do I have shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis is more common in seniors, but it can also occur in younger people who have had previous injuries or a history of overuse of the shoulder joint. Symptoms include:
- Chronic pain in the shoulder, especially with movement
- Stiffness and mobility issues
- Swelling and tenderness around the joint
- Grating or clicking sensation in the joint
A consultation with a medical professional, such as Dr. Kohler, can help diagnose shoulder arthritis. Treatment options vary, but PRP injections can be a beneficial option.
What are PRP injections?
You may have heard about platelet-rich plasma before, but what are PRP injections? First, PRP is derived from your blood and contains a high concentration of platelets, which are responsible for promoting healing and tissue growth. The process begins with a blood draw at Ospina Medical in New York City, NY. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge to separate the plasma and platelets from the other components.
Once the PRP is prepared, Dr. Kohler carefully injects the platelets into the shoulder joint. The high concentration of growth factors in the PRP helps repair damaged tissues and reduces inflammation, leading to pain relief and improved mobility.
Why choose PRP injections for shoulder arthritis?
There are several reasons why PRP injections may be a desirable treatment for shoulder pain:
- Drug-free: Prescription painkillers can have unwanted side effects, and long-term use can be harmful. PRP injections provide pain relief without the need for medication.
- Natural: As PRP is derived from your own blood, there is a decreased risk of rejection or adverse reactions.
- Long-lasting: While physical therapy and medication provide temporary relief, PRP offers longer-lasting outcomes. Many patients report significant improvements when it comes to stiffness and mobility issues.
- Minimally invasive: There's no need for surgery or a lengthy recovery time with PRP injections. The procedure takes place in our office and takes less than an hour, with minimal discomfort.
Can PRP help with other types of pain?
While PRP injections are a popular treatment for shoulder arthritis, they can also be effective in treating other types of pain or discomfort. This includes joint pain in the knee, hip, and other areas. The same properties that make PRP beneficial for shoulder arthritis can also aid in repairing damaged tissues in other places. Dr. Kohler can provide more information during an assessment.
Manage shoulder arthritis with PRP injections
Mobility issues do not have to be a part of your daily life. If you have been diagnosed with shoulder arthritis or are experiencing problems with this area, PRP injections offer an alternative to traditional treatments. Call Ospina Medical in New York City, NY to book an appointment with Dr. Matthew Kohler. We offer an advanced treatment for shoulder pain so you can get back to living life without limitations.