While there is no cure for arthritis, there are several nonoperative treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. One such treatment option is injections, which include hyaluronic acid injections, steroid injections, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
Arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
If you are suffering from arthritis, Dr. Ulric Bigby will work with you to discover the right non-operative pain management strategy.
Nonoperative care options, such as hyaluronic acid injections, steroid injections, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, offer a range of benefits for individuals with arthritis. These injections can provide relief from pain and inflammation and improve joint function.
While each treatment option has its own considerations and potential risks, Dr. Ulric Bigby can help you determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific condition.
With the advancements in nonoperative care, individuals with arthritis have more options than ever before to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that helps lubricate and cushion the joints. In individuals with arthritis, the hyaluronic acid in the affected joint becomes thin, leading to increased friction and pain.
Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, aim to supplement the body's natural supply of hyaluronic acid and improve joint function.
During a hyaluronic acid injection, a doctor injects a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid directly into the affected joint. This injection helps restore the lubricating properties of the joint fluid, reducing pain and improving mobility. The procedure is relatively quick and can be performed in a doctor's office.
Hyaluronic acid injections have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving joint function in some individuals with arthritis. However, the effectiveness of these injections may vary from person to person, with older adults and those with severe arthritis experiencing less benefit.
Common side effects of hyaluronic acid injections include minor pain at the injection site and a buildup of joint fluid, which usually resolves within a few days.
Hyaluronic acid injections are typically recommended for individuals with knee osteoarthritis who have not experienced relief from painkillers or non-drug treatments.
They are also considered for those who cannot take painkillers or are not ready for total knee replacement surgery. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if hyaluronic acid injections are suitable for your specific condition.
Steroids are synthetic substances that mimic the effects of natural steroids in the body.
They can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It is important to note that the steroids used in arthritis treatment are different from anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders to increase muscle size and strength.
Steroid injections are administered directly into the affected joint or the surrounding soft tissues.
These injections help reduce inflammation, which in turn alleviates pain and improves joint function. The procedure is relatively quick and can be performed in a doctor's office.
Steroid injections have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in individuals with arthritis. They provide short-term relief, with some injections providing immediate pain reduction.
However, repeated cortisone shots can have negative effects on the joint, including cartilage deterioration and weakened tendons and ligaments. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of steroid injections with a healthcare professional before proceeding with treatment.
Steroid injections are often recommended for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis.
They may also be considered for those with osteoarthritis who experience severe pain or require additional pain relief. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if steroid injections are suitable for your specific condition.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a therapy that utilizes the healing properties of platelets and growth factors found in your own blood. The blood is drawn and processed to concentrate the platelets and growth factors, which are then injected into the affected joint.
PRP injections work by delivering a high concentration of platelets and growth factors directly into the damaged joint. These substances can reduce pain and inflammation.
The procedure is typically performed by a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine doctor, and may require multiple injections over a period of time.
PRP injections have shown promising results in relieving pain and improving joint function in individuals with arthritis. They can stimulate increased levels of hyaluronic acid, a major component of connective tissue.
However, the long-term efficacy of PRP injections is still under investigation, and it is important to note that PRP does not lead to tissue or cartilage regeneration. Side effects of PRP injections are typically minimal, with some patients experiencing temporary pain at the injection site.
PRP injections are generally recommended for individuals with mild to moderate arthritis. They may be considered for those who have not experienced sufficient relief from other treatments, such as physical therapy and medication.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if PRP injections are suitable for your specific condition.
If you have arthritis pain, injections are one non-operative treatment option. You can discuss your options with Dr. Ulric Bigby.
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