Stem cell therapy
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy uses your own stem cells to help you heal in a natural way. These types of therapy use the body's own healing power and special growth factors to bring about healing and pain relief. PRP and stem cell therapy can offer a long term solution for chronic pain sufferers in many cases. Dr. Anil Kumar, an interventional pain management specialist at Advanced Pain Management Center in Stoneham, Massachusetts, is ready to help patients heal using these advanced pain relief techniques.
Stem Cell Q&A
What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an advanced new treatment for patients who suffer from joint, tendon, and ligament injuries. PRP therapy uses a patient's own blood to help in healing. PRP is extracted from the blood and then processed using centrifugal force. The PRP is then injected into the injured area, where the platelets can release growth factors to prompt natural tissue healing.
How Does PRP or Stem Cell Therapy Bring About Healing?
PRP therapy stimulates the body — specifically a joint, tendon, or ligament — to begin healing by introducing extra growth factors into the body. Further, PRP therapy will encourage new collagen to grow and aid in the healing.
What is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy is a different process for extracting healing cells from a patient's own body. In stem cell therapy, either excess fatty tissue or bone marrow is used together with platelets. Stem cells taking bone marrow helps to create cartilage. They're normally used to treat arthritis and many types of sports injuries. Stem cells derived from fatty tissues are combined with platelets to help with osteoarthritis, as they can help joints heal by prompting brand new cartilage growth.
How Many Treatments are Needed?
The amount of treatments needed varies based upon the individual patient's response to therapy. The majority of patients require just two treatments, but some may need more than that. Most patients start to notice pain relief at around six weeks after their treatment.
What Special Precautions Should Patients Take Before and After Treatment?
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Patients having platelet rich plasma or stem cell therapy treatment shouldn't use NSAID pain relief medications for a week before their treatment, and for four weeks after treatment.
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Tylenol can be helpful for any discomfort or pain.
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Ice and heat can also be applied as needed.
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Patients may go about their daily routine immediately after their injections.
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After the 10 day mark, light exercise is fine.
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After six weeks, patients can resume their full range of physical activity, including strenuous exercise.