Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. While there are several treatment options available for osteoarthritis, a new injection has recently been developed that shows promising results in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life for patients.
One study found that losing 10% to 20% of body weight improved pain, function and quality of life for older adults with obesity and OA. Regular physical activity may be the most important piece of your overall treatment plan. Being active can help you stay mobile, relieve pain, lose weight and reduce your risk of other health problems. Activities such as walking, biking, swimming, yoga and water aerobics are all helpful for your OA symptoms and overall health. If joint pain or stiffness makes activity difficulty, work with a physical therapist to develop an exercise plan and find modifications that work for you.
MSC products differ markedly in composition, and the most suitable strategy is far from clear, with biological and practical considerations currently guiding the development of treatment strategies. Expanded MSCs allow a more reproducible treatment but a two-step procedure is needed with an increase in costs, manipulation-related infection risks and invasiveness. Cell expansion transforms MSCs in advanced-therapy medicinal products (ATMPs), subjected to more rigorous regulatory requirements, similar to those of conventional drugs.
The goal is to lubricate the joint, reduce pain and allow for greater joint movement. It may be given as a one-time injection, or once weekly for up to five weeks. Different treatments have side effects that you should discuss with your doctor beforehand. The two most common types of knee injection for OA are corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid.
Other side effects include a temporary increase in blood sugar, bleeding into the joint, and, quite rarely, infection. And, of course, the injection itself can be painful, although numbing medication is usually provided. Many of these genes signify molecules that are the targets of existing approved drugs and drugs that are currently in clinical development. The study, published in the journal Cell on August 26, was led by the Helmholtz Center Munich in Germany. It is the largest study on osteoarthritis to date, including data from more than 825,000 people of European and East Asian descent. These drugs can be injected into both knees or just a single knee joint.
What is the New Injection for Osteoarthritis?
Food and Drug Administration for treating osteoarthritis of the hip. Osteoarthritis (OA), the prevailing form of arthritis, manifests as a gradual breakdown of joints known as degeneration. Characterized by pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, and swelling, this condition typically emerges after prolonged wear and tear, primarily affecting the hands, knees, neck, hips, and lower back. Predominantly afflicting the elderly, osteoarthritis is influenced by developmental, genetic, mechanical, and metabolic factors.
The new injection for osteoarthritis is called PRP, which stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. This innovative treatment involves drawing a small amount of your own blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the resulting solution directly into the affected joint. Platelets are known for their ability to promote healing and tissue regeneration, making PRP an exciting option for those suffering from osteoarthritis.
How Does PRP Work?
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) contains growth factors that help stimulate the repair and regeneration of damaged cartilage in the joint.
- The concentrated platelets in PRP also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.
- PRP injections are minimally invasive and are performed in a doctor’s office, making them a convenient and effective option for many patients.
Benefits of PRP for Osteoarthritis
- Non-surgical: PRP injections offer a non-surgical alternative to traditional treatments like corticosteroid injections or joint replacement surgery.
- Long-lasting relief: Many patients experience long-lasting pain relief and improved mobility after receiving PRP injections.
- Minimal side effects: Because PRP is derived from your own blood, the risk of adverse reactions or complications is minimal.
In conclusion, the new injection for osteoarthritis, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), offers a promising alternative for individuals looking to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you are considering PRP therapy for your osteoarthritis, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is right for you.