Chronic pain from basilar thumb arthritis affects up to 40% of women and 25% of men, while tennis elbow impacts 1-3% of the population annually. These conditions can significantly impact daily activities, from gripping objects to playing sports.
Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve is a leading provider of hand surgery and peripheral nerve surgery in Pennsylvania. Dr. Alexander Spiess specializes in innovative treatments like PRP therapy to help patients find relief from persistent joint and tendon pain. If you're struggling with thumb arthritis or elbow pain, schedule an appointment with our specialists to explore your treatment options.
Let's explore how PRP therapy can help address these challenging conditions and what you can expect from the treatment process.
Understanding PRP Therapy and Its Benefits
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses your body’s natural healing abilities to treat pain and repair tissue. This treatment involves drawing a small amount of blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting the enriched plasma into the affected area.
Platelets contain growth factors essential for tissue repair. When injected into injured or arthritic joints, they can:
- Stimulate tissue repair
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve blood flow for faster healing
- Slow arthritis progression
- Provide lasting pain relief
Why Choose PRP Over Other Treatments?
Unlike corticosteroid injections, which offer temporary relief but may weaken tissues over time, PRP therapy promotes actual healing. It’s minimally invasive, uses your own blood, and carries a low risk of side effects.
Conditions Treated with PRP Therapy
- Basilar Thumb Arthritis (CMC Joint Arthritis)
Basilar thumb arthritis occurs at the base of the thumb, where it meets the wrist, causing:
- Aching pain at the base of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping or pinching
- Joint swelling and stiffness
- Weakness during daily tasks
PRP for hand arthritis has shown promising results in reducing joint inflammation and promoting cartilage repair, by stimulating the production of cartilage matrix and supporting the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes (cartilage cells).
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow affects tendons on the outside of the elbow, causing:
- Pain when gripping objects
- Forearm weakness
- Elbow stiffness
- Worsened discomfort with repetitive motions
PRP is an effective option for tennis elbow, especially when conservative treatments fail. Its growth factors repair damaged tendons and reduce inflammation.
- Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow affects the inner elbow, similar to tennis elbow, but on the opposite side. PRP helps restore tendon function and ease pain for this condition.
The PRP Treatment Process: Step-by-Step
- Initial Consultation
During your first visit, your specialist will:
- Review your medical history and symptoms
- Examine the affected area
- Discuss past treatments
- Confirm if PRP is suitable for you
- Preparation for Treatment
Before your procedure:
- Avoid anti-inflammatory meds one week prior
- Stay hydrated on treatment day
- Eat a light meal
- Arrange transportation if needed
- The PRP Procedure
Treatment usually takes 45-60 minutes:
- Blood Draw: A small sample is taken from your arm.
- Processing: Blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate platelets.
- Injection: PRP is injected into the affected area.
- Post-Treatment Care
After your PRP injection:
- Apply ice to reduce swelling
- Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours
- Use acetaminophen for pain (avoid NSAIDs)
- Keep the injection site clean and dry
When PRP Is the Right Choice
Best Conditions for PRP
PRP therapy works well for:
- Early to moderate arthritis (not severe cases)
- Chronic tendon injuries that don’t heal with rest
- Patients who haven’t improved with other treatments
- Active individuals wanting to return to sports or activities
When PRP Isn’t Recommended
PRP may not be suitable if you have:
- Severe arthritis
- Active infections at the treatment site
- Certain blood disorders
- Unrealistic expectations about results
Get Relief from Chronic Pain with PRP Therapy
PRP therapy offers a promising solution for patients suffering from basilar thumb arthritis and lateral epicondylitis, using your body's natural healing capabilities to promote long-lasting relief. Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve has the expertise and experience to guide you through this innovative treatment option.
Don't let chronic pain limit your daily activities any longer. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about PRP therapy and discover if this cutting-edge treatment is right for your hand or elbow condition.
