May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to educate yourself about a disease that affects nearly 23 percent of the adult population. While there are several forms of arthritis, let's take a closer look at osteoarthritis and a relatively new and particularly effective therapy.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common form of arthritis affecting over 32.5 million adults in the United States.1 It occurs when cartilage breaks down over time leading to symptoms such as pain, stiffness, tenderness, swelling, and reduced mobility. While there is no cure for OA, there are a variety of treatments that can help slow progression and manage symptoms. Common treatments include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, injections, and surgery. Over the last couple of decades, much research has been done on arthritis management. Recent studies indicate that PRP (Platelet-rich plasma) Therapy can reduce pain and stiffness and improve mobility.2
What is PRP Therapy?
Platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) is becoming an increasingly popular treatment for many orthopedic occurrences and it is also showing relief to many patients suffering from osteoarthritis. PRP is produced from the patient’s own blood by using a high concentration of blood plasma and platelets. The platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the area of concern.
PRP therapy promotes tissue repair and regeneration and can potentially provide the following benefits to those suffering from arthritis:
- Pain Relief
- Slowing of Cartilage Degeneration
- Accelerated Healing of Tissues
- Regenerate Healthy Tissue
- Reduce Stiffness
- Improve Mobility
- Minimally Invasive
- Increases Fluid in the Joint
- Minimal Downtime
The field of regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma therapy, is continuing to advance at a rapid pace. Dr. Kai Mithoefer has led the field of regenerative orthopedics for more than 15 years and has extensive experience in utilizing orthobiologic therapies. Don’t let arthritis symptoms keep you from living an active lifestyle.
Dr. Kai Mithoefer is board-certified in both Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic sports medicine specialist. Dr. Mithoefer is an internationally recognized specialist for complex shoulder and knee injuries with over 15 years of experience with the treatment of sports-related injuries. Dr. Mithoefer practices at Boston Sports and Shoulder Center and has published more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters and is a frequent speaker at national and international orthopedic meetings.
