Knee injections are a viable treatment option for many adults with knee osteoarthritis that does not improve with conservative measures like pain medication, but does not necessarily warrant surgery. Osteoarthritis in the knee is characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage that cushions bones and absorbs shock. There are multiple types of knee injections that can help improve the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis – let’s take a look at a few of the most notable:
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections
Platelet rich plasma injections are a popular form of regenerative medicine – a relatively new branch of orthopedics that focuses on restoring damaged tissues rather than simply addressing symptoms. This treatment involves taking a small blood sample from the patient, which is processed in what’s known as a centrifuge to separate growth factor-rich cells from other blood components. These cells are concentrated and injected into the injured area, sometimes alongside an anesthetic to help reduce pain. Delivering growth factor-rich plasma directly to a damaged joint may help promote healing and facilitate new cartilage growth.
Platelet rich plasma therapy is also a popular choice among athletes and active individuals with tendon, ligament, and muscle injuries. Because the patient’s own blood cells are used, this treatment is considered to be natural and safe, and is not associated with any serious side effects.
Stem cell injections
There is still much research to be done regarding stem cell therapy and its effects on knee arthritis, but many patients report positive results. This type of regenerative medicine leverages the natural restorative abilities of stem cells to stimulate healing in a damaged joint, such as an arthritic knee. Injecting stem cells into the knee joint may help maintain and repair knee cartilage, thereby improving mobility and slowing the progression of osteoarthritis.
Hyaluronic acid injections
Hyaluronic acid is another popular injection therapy for patients with knee osteoarthritis. Also referred to as viscosupplementation, this evidence-based treatment uses hyaluronic acid – a naturally occurring joint substance – to lubricate the knee joint and encourage more comfortable, fluid movement.
Knee injections at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group
Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group is a trusted provider of musculoskeletal care in the Tampa, Florida, area. A current division of Florida Medical Clinic, our practice was founded in 1949 and is the longest-running orthopedic practice in our region. Our board-certified orthopedic and sports medicine specialists offer several types of knee injections to osteoarthritis patients, including:
- Platelet rich plasma therapy
- Amniotic stem cell therapy from elective C-section births
- Gel-One® hyaluronic acid injections
Are you interested in learning more about the types of knee injections and what option may be best for you? If so, contact Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group today to schedule an appointment. As our patient, you can be assured that you’ll receive personalized care from the moment you enter our doors, as well as a treatment plan that is suited to your unique needs. We look forward to helping you feel your best!
