When you’re suffering with joint, tendon, or other soft tissue injury that hasn’t been responsive to rest or physical therapy, there comes a point where you’ll have to make some important decisions regarding your treatment going forward. Making sense of your symptoms (in particular, how your injury or pain is affecting your day-to-day life) is not something that you should attempt without a professional diagnosis, because every case is different and so too is the most appropriate treatment.
When a problem does not resolve on its own or with basic therapy, many people think the only alternative is surgery. For some, this may be true, but in other cases, Dr. Schicker may recommend PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) orthopedic treatment, which is a minimally invasive procedure that’s performed in the clinic and takes around 20 minutes.
What is PRP and How Does it Work?
PRP works by stimulating the body’s own repair mechanisms. It is a relatively simple process that begins with taking a small sample of the patient’s blood. That blood is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, which are then delivered directly to the site of the injury via an injection.
It makes sense that most people would immediately say “well, sign me up!” rather than considering invasive surgery, but PRP is not appropriate for every injury (or every stage of an injury or condition), and it should never be considered a “quick fix”.
Dr. Schicker approaches every consultation on an individual basis. He spends time listening to the patient and asking pertinent questions about their condition so he can determine what stage they are at and make a correct diagnosis based on the facts. He then explains in clear and simple terms what recommended treatment options are available, so the patient has the clarity to make an informed decision — including the question, “am I a good candidate for PRP?”
When is PRP Recommended?
The treatment can be used with great success to resolve or give relief for numerous conditions in which tissue damage and inflammation are limiting the patient’s movement and function. In some cases, it results in a permanent solution (after one to three injections, depending on the patient), and in others it can be a pathway to return to activity in the short term without having to resort to immediate surgery.
While PRP can be used as an alternative (or a step before considering it) to invasive surgery, it’s important to note that results can vary. It can be effective in reducing pain and restoring functionality and movement, but it does not replace the need for eventual surgery in all cases. (This is why a professional diagnosis is essential before even considering it.)
Dr. Schicker will make a recommendation for PRP treatment based on multiple factors, including (but not restricted to) the progression of the injury, the patient’s lifestyle, what prior treatment has been tried, a medication review, diagnostic imaging, and a blood profile.
Early or moderate cases of joint, tendon or tissue damage, where there is less degeneration and the condition has not resolved on its own or with other conservative treatment, usually achieve the best results.
Some of the most common conditions that Dr.Schicker may recommend PRP as a treatment include:
- Soft tissue injuries
- Muscle strain
- Ankle sprains
- Knee, hip and shoulder arthritis
- Rotator cuff and Achilles tendon injuries
- Tendinopathy (patellar tendonitis, tennis elbow)
- Ligament irritation
Am I a Good Candidate for PRP?
If you’re suffering from joint, tendon or soft tissue pain, the question “am I a good candidate for PRP?” can only be answered definitively after a consultation with Dr. Schicker.
In general terms, if you have a mild to moderate orthopedic injury or condition that has not responded to initial interventions like rest, icing, cortisone injections, or physical therapy, it may be an appropriate option for you to consider. PRP treatment works on promoting the healing potential of your body’s own cells, so if you have an early stage injury or condition, you will respond more successfully.
Aside from the more natural approach of the treatment, the recovery benefits are a major bonus, with little or no downtime as compared to the lengthy recovery and debilitative effects of surgery. But PRP is not for everyone and there are multiple factors that may affect whether you are a good candidate.
Dr. Schicker will discuss these with you during the initial consultation, but they include:
- Active illness or infection
- Pregnancy
- Degenerative medical conditions
- Medications that may affect platelet function or blood clotting
- Anemia or low platelet count
- Unrealistic expectations
What Results Will I See from PRP Treatment?
PRP is a treatment that, rather than masking symptoms, supports the body’s own natural healing; so again, it’s very important to understand that results can vary depending on the stage and severity of the injury and a patient’s lifestyle. Overall, however, it’s been shown to be highly effective in terms of achieving meaningful pain relief, movement, and functionality.
Resolution of joint or tendon pain and a reduction in swelling and stiffness can result in a return to normal life for many people. Because the treatment can assist in halting the progression of further degeneration, it can prevent the need for surgery later on — but not always.
For some patients, the results can be long lasting or even permanent, requiring no further intervention.
When Will I See Results?
PRP is a straightforward procedure delivered in Dr. Schicker’s office and recovery is immediate. There may be some minor swelling or soreness at the injection site, which can usually be managed with the application of an ice pack.
The process works by stimulating the patient’s own cells to promote healing and regeneration, so results are not usually seen immediately. It will be different from one patient to another, but initial improvement usually happens within the first couple of weeks post injection, with the condition continuing to improve over time. Maximum benefits may be experienced at around six to eight weeks.
Professional Diagnosis Leads to Professional Treatment
A person suffering from musculoskeletal pain can often feel overwhelmed by having to make decisions around their own treatment, and even understanding what their options are. A consultation with a caring, professional orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Michael Schicker affords patients the opportunity to get a thorough clinical diagnosis, so they can weigh up their options based on a clear understanding of their condition and the results they can expect.
Dr. Schicker’s patient-focused approach begins with a calm, unhurried consultation, clear explanations, and considered treatment options with the individual in mind. Surgery is not always the only pathway forward to achieve the best result, and sometimes Dr. Schicker may recommend that PRP or other conservative, non-surgical treatments are more appropriate.
If you’re suffering from joint, tendon or soft tissue pain, book a consultation. You’ll receive a professional diagnosis and treatment options so you can decide whether PRP is an appropriate step going forward to reduce your pain and restore your movement.