We offer many unique forms of arthritis pain management including Librela, Platelet Rich Plasma, and Physical Rehabilitation.

Platelets are a component of blood, with their main function to produce a clot so that a patient does not bleed excessively. However, platelets also contain proteins that can help the body heal.

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is created by removing the red blood cells from whole blood and isolating platelets. A sample of blood is taken from a patient and then spun down in a centrifuge, removing the red blood cells. The left-over concentrate is called PRP which contains platelets, growth factors and proteins that can then be used to promote healing and treat areas of inflammation in the body. We create PRP by drawing blood directly from the patient, therefore preventing possible reactions.

• PRP can be injected into any joint (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, or ankle). With special training and ultrasound guidance, it can also be administered into muscles and tendons.

An injection can last anywhere from 6 to 9 months. However it may take multiple monthly injections initially.

This technique is best for patients that may not tolerate traditional systemic arthritis treatment, has 1-2 joints obviously affected by arthritis, or need local treatment for arthritis on top of systemic treatment. While many systemic treatments will help with the pain of arthritis, since PRP is injected directly into the joints it can help slow the progression or development of arthritis along with treating inflammation/pain. 

PRP injections are generally performed under reversible sedation. Because we are drawing a larger amount of blood from the patient (amount is dependent on size), we need the patient to be still for the blood drawer and then the subsequent joint injection.