The problem: When tendons and joints wear down
Tendinopathy and arthritis can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and weakness in your shoulder and elbow. These conditions often result from overuse, injury, or the natural aging process.
- Tendinopathy: This isn't just simple inflammation (tendinitis). It's a condition where the tendon tissue itself begins to break down and degenerate. Because tendons have poor blood flow, they are slow to heal on their own.
- Arthritis: This involves the wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions your joints. Over time, this leads to bone-on-bone friction, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility.
What is PRP therapy?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is a form of regenerative medicine that uses your body's own healing power to address the root cause of your pain.
How it works:
- A small amount of your blood is drawn, similar to a routine blood test.
- Your blood is placed in a special machine called a centrifuge, which spins it to separate the blood components.
- This process creates a highly concentrated plasma with a high number of platelets, which are rich in natural growth factors.
- This 'liquid gold' is then carefully injected into the injured area of your shoulder or elbow to promote tissue repair and healing.
How is PRP different from cortisone injections?
Cortisone shots and PRP are both injected into the body, but their actions are very different.
Why PRP may be a better choice than cortisone:
- PRP addresses the source of the problem by encouraging your body to repair damaged tissue.
- Cortisone only masks the pain, and its effects are temporary.
- The long-term risks associated with repeated cortisone shots, like tendon damage, are avoided with PRP.
Is PRP right for you?
- Ideal for... Individuals with chronic pain (at least 3–6 months) from mild to moderate arthritis or tendinopathy that has not responded well to conservative treatments like physical therapy or rest.
- Not ideal for... Advanced arthritis that requires joint replacement, or complete tendon tears that need surgical repair.
Key takeaways:
- PRP therapy harnesses your body's natural healing abilities to repair damaged tissue, offering a regenerative solution to your pain.
- Unlike cortisone injections, PRP provides long-term, sustained relief by addressing the root cause of the injury, rather than just masking the symptoms temporarily.
- As a minimally invasive procedure, PRP is a safer alternative to surgery for many conditions, with significantly less downtime and risk.
- The best course of treatment depends on your specific condition and personal goals. A thorough discussion with your doctor is the most important step in making an informed decision.
