Shoulder pain is a common problem that can be debilitating for many people and can lead to a limited range of motion. Many individuals turn to traditional treatments such as physical therapy or even surgery, but for many patients, these often have limitations and potential risks. For those looking for an alternative, natural healing solution, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection for shoulder pain may be the answer.
Recognizing the Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including full thickness rotator cuff tears (or even just a partial tear), impingement syndrome, tennis elbow, and frozen shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis). Symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause but may include persistent aching or stiffness, weakness, swelling or tenderness around the joint, clicking or grinding noises when moving the shoulder joint, and decreased range of motion.
Traditionally, shoulder issues are treated with physiotherapy, rest, and a steroid injection (or more if necessary). However, these methods may not be effective in some cases and surgery, such as a total shoulder replacement, is sometimes necessary to reduce pain or improve mobility. Potential risks and side effects when taking a surgical approach include infection, nerve damage, blood loss, stiffness after healing, and injury to surrounding structures.
Harnessing the Power of Growth Factors: The Science Behind PRP Injections
The science behind Platelet Rich Plasma injection for shoulder pain is promising. PRP therapy involves breaking whole blood cells down into platelet rich plasma, and a variety of other bioactive proteins and activated platelets that have been shown to have growth factors which promote healing.
Sports medicine studies have shown that patients undergoing platelet rich plasma therapy, particularly in younger patients, experience long-lasting relief from their symptoms. One clinical trial comparing the use of steroid injections and Platelet Rich Plasma injections for rotator cuff tears found a significant improvement in pain and range of motion during the healing process after the PRP injection (2). Another review of clinical studies demonstrated that the PRP injections were significantly better for relieving pain and functionality long term (3).
PRP Injections for Rotator Cuff Tears
Platelet Rich Plasma injection is a promising treatment for specific shoulder issues, including rotator cuff tears or partial tears. These tears occur when the rotator cuff tendon is torn away from the bone, and are typically treated with physiotherapy, rest, and avoidance of certain activities. However, if these treatments fail to improve the condition, PRP therapy may be used for rotator cuff repair. Studies have shown that PRP injections can provide effective relief, without the need for surgical repair, for rotator cuff tendons.
What to expect
The procedure begins by taking a small blood sample, which is then processed in a centrifuge to separate out red blood cells, white blood cells, and also causes platelet activation. These platelets contain multiple growth factors, which promote the restoration of hyaluronic acid, which supports joint fluidity and function when injected into the shoulder. Ultrasound guidance is sometimes utilized to support the injection process.
Following the procedure, most people experience a quick healing process, with recovery times varying between two to six weeks.
PRP Injections as a Surgery-Free Solution
When comparing PRP injections to surgical procedures, such as a total shoulder replacement, there are several advantages that make it more attractive. It is non-invasive, it has a much shorter recovery time, and no foreign substance is used. Surgical repair carries its own risks, including infection and permanent damage to the affected area. Hence, PRP injections are an attractive natural healing alternative for those seeking relief from shoulder pain.
The Healing Power of PRP: A Non-Surgical Approach to Shoulder Pain
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is becoming an increasingly popular form of nonsurgical, biologic treatment for shoulder pain. PRP injections offer many benefits to those looking for relief without the risks associated with surgical intervention. In most cases, the procedure will provide effective pain relief and improved mobility with minimal discomfort or side effects. Take control of your shoulder pain today by talking to your doctor about the potential of PRP injections!
Q&A
How long does PRP last on the shoulder?
The longevity of PRP injections in the shoulder will depend on the individual and their specific condition. Generally, studies have suggested that these treatments can provide relief for up to nine months (4).
What is the success rate of PRP injections for the shoulder?
Research has indicated that PRP injections have been widely successful in treating shoulder pain, with a rate of up to 98% at three months post-injection (5).
How many PRP injections are needed for the shoulder?
Generally, up to three PR injections are recommended in the initial phase, spaced over a few months. After the initial treatment period is complete, additional treatments may be necessary depending on how well the patient responds to treatment (6).
PRP injection shoulder treatment in Knoxville, TN
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References:
Saurav S, Aggarwal AN, Shahi P, Kamal S, Bansal K, Singla S. Efficacy of Single Injection of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Shoulder Impingement Syndrome. Cureus. 2022 Jun 7;14(6):e25727. doi: 10.7759/cureus.25727. PMID: 35812631; PMCID: PMC9270084.
Dadgostar H, Fahimipour F, Pahlevan Sabagh A, Arasteh P, Razi M. Corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma injections for rotator cuff tendinopathy: a randomized clinical trial study. J Orthop Surg Res. 2021 May 21;16(1):333. doi: 10.1186/s13018-021-02470-x. PMID: 34020672; PMCID: PMC8139041.
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