Knee arthritis, usually osteoarthritis, is very common. Meniscal tears in either the medial meniscus or lateral meniscus are also common. Currently available procedures through insurance, such as Kenalog or steroid shots, are often only effective for a month or so and can lead to additional cartilage loss. Is surgery the only answer? No. PRP, or platelet rich plasma, involves taking a blood sample from the patient, concentrating the growth factors in the platelet rich area of blood, and injecting this natural healing substance into the diseased joint. 80% or more of our patients notice improvement with this procedure, often for months or years. Dr. Van Reken has had many of his own joints treated with success, including both knees, one ankle and both shoulders. Is a PRP joint injection in your future?
