We’ve written about platelet-rich injections in previous blogs, but have never discussed why this particular therapy could be a great alternative to others when it comes to treating chronic low-back pain. Of course, the effectiveness of PRP injections depends on the source and/cause of your back pain. Some of the most common back and spinal conditions involve damaged discs and/or compression of nerve roots, i.e. herniated discs, degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis. These conditions, however, do not really benefit from PRP injections—muscle strains, damaged ligaments and tendons, and muscle fibrosis in the back, do.
The pain management physicians at Southwest Spine and Pain Center provide PRP injections to patients suffering from pain due to injured tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints. Prior to administering the treatment, the specialists will generally evaluate for overall health and medical history for eligibility. If you think you may be a candidate for PRP injections in the lower back, read more and then call to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians.
One of the best things about PRP injections is that it uses the patient’s own blood. We know this may be an over-stated phrase in our PRP blogs, but this is an incredibly important piece of information. Your blood contains bioactive proteins that promote and manage the body’s healing process, which can get you back to your normal state with little-to-no downtime.
With specialized equipment, your blood essentially gets separated and portions or plasma is removed and mixed with platelets. The processed blood is then injected into the injury site with the help of a fluoroscope or ultrasonic guide. This entire procedure could take anywhere from one to two hours. Please be aware, the process can be a painful one. Patients typically report soreness and/or pain near or around the injection site one to two weeks after the procedure.
Regardless, PRP injections are incredibly beneficial for those living with chronic low-back pain that have not seen any major health improvements from similar injection therapies. Results from the injections may be felt 4-6 months and the initial injection, and could last an additional few months. Because the process requires the patients blood and not steroidal medicine, the process can be repeated a few times a year.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
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