Arthritis exists in various forms and has a devastating impact on the affected individual’s quality of life. This health condition is widely common among Canadians. In fact, it’s estimated that 1 in 6 Canadian men and 1 in 4 Canadian women have arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is among the several types of arthritis that impact Canadians, which has to do with cartilage degeneration. It mostly affects the knee joint, although osteoarthritis of the hip, shoulder, and foot are also common.
Traditional Treatments for Arthritis
Arthritis treatments, especially osteoarthritis treatments, don’t quite reverse or undo the symptoms of the condition. They do, however, slow them down and provide relief from pain and discomfort. Treatments typically involve:
Medication
Over-the-counter medications such as naproxen sodium and ibuprofen are useful in eliminating pain and reducing the swelling that often accompanies arthritis. These anti-inflammatory drugs are easily available and are traditionally prescribed by doctors and physicians. Acetaminophen and Duloxetine may also be prescribed.
Physical & Occupational Therapy
Through physical and occupational therapy, the muscles in the joint can be strengthened to improve flexibility and increase mobility. This also helps in reducing the pain and discomfort that follows when the affected individual attempts to do even simple tasks.
Surgery
Surgery is another traditional mode of treatment for arthritis, albeit a last-resort one. Joint replacement surgeries are recommended if other conservative treatments fail and there’s no other option. However, surgeries carry potential risks and complications.
PRP Injection Therapy for Arthritis
PRP injection therapy, aka platelet rich plasma therapy, is an alternative treatment option for arthritis patients. This mode of therapy utilizes the blood’s natural healing properties for repairing damaged tendons, cartilage, and ligaments.
So, how does this work?
The process is pretty simple. Around 2060 cc of a patient’s own blood is withdrawn. This blood sample is then processed using a special centrifuge so that the components of the blood can be separated. From this mixture, PRP is extracted, which contains a high concentration of Growth Factors. This is then injected at the site of treatment to kick-start the body’s natural healing response.
Several studies have highlighted the efficacy of platelet rich plasma injection therapy. The concentrate of blood growth factors present in PRP has been shown to offer symptomatic relief to osteoarthritis patients. The minimally invasive intervention provided by PRP therapy not only accelerates cartilage regrowth and healing, but is also a safe and almost entirely risk-free procedure.
At RegenerVate Medical Injection Therapy, we offer arthritis treatment in the form of platelet rich plasma injections. Reach out to our staff in the greater Toronto area by calling us 1 855 847-3975!
