Injections in Gibsonia PA

What are Viscosupplementation injections in Gibsonia PA?

Viscosupplementation injections are a type of injection into knees that help aid in relieving pain and improving joint function. These injections are typically composed of hyaluronic acid which is a thick, elastic like substance that mimics the natural synovial fluid that lubricates joints in our body. When this fluid decreases as we age, it can allow for arthritis symptoms to progress and become more noticeable. This can cause swelling, pain, cracking in the knee, and decreased mobility. Viscosupplementation injections in Gibsonia PA can help alleviate these symptoms and potentially avoid invasive surgical procedures. These injections are typically given in a series of three to five for optimal results. Ultrasound guidance can be used during the procedure.

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What are Platelet Rich Plasma injections?

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is another type of injection that can be used in joints to help with joint pain. As opposed to Viscosupplementation injections, PRP injections help your body to heal damaged areas joints and tissue, and regenerate some portions of the joint that have been injured or broken down over time. PRP can be used for both acute and chronic conditions.

As the name implies, platelets and plasma are injected into a joint. A blood sample is taken from the patient and spun down in centrifuge to leave a layer of plasma, rich with platelets, that is separate from other blood components. The platelet rich plasma layer is then injected into the joint to help decrease pain and heal damaged areas.

As with viscosupplementation, ultrasound guidance can also be used during the procedure.

Platelets are found naturally in our blood and are the component that is responsible for stopping bleeding if we sustain a cut, for example.

• PRP is autologous, meaning it comes from your own body. Therefore, there is no chance of having an allergic reaction. PRP injections are generally well tolerated and have little to no side effects.
• PRP injections are also typically performed in a series for optimal results.
• Both Viscosupplementation and PRP injections are recommended to be done along with gentle therapy to help in the healing and regenerative process.

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What are Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger points are those pesky, painful areas on your body that cause pain. They are short and tight areas in muscle fibers that are typically caused by trauma, overuse, or injury. These are sometimes also referred to as "knots." Trigger point injections (TPI) are treated with a local injection into the site using an anesthetic medication to inactivate that area and alleviate pain. This treatment can be on an as-needed basis and can be used in conjunction with Chiropractic treatments and Massage Therapy.

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Who is a good candidate for Viscosupplementation or PRP Injections?

Most anyone can receive these injections. There are very few contraindications to being able to receive these treatments. Your medical history and medications will be reviewed with the treatment team prior to having injections performed.

If you are someone that struggles with knee pain and are looking to avoid surgery, these options may be for you.

Viscosupplementation is safe, has been use for many years and is approved by the FDA.
PRP injections have not yet been fully approved by the FDA, however, have been used by many Healthcare Providers for years and have become common practice even for professional athletes. The idea of using PRP has been around since the 1980's. PRP has been deemed a safe and effective option for treating knee pain and other ailments through many studies.

Some injections used in our office are covered by insurance- we would happy to check your benefits for coverage, and we also offer cash based pricing as well.