Getting scheduled for an injection therapy treatment for joint pain can be an exciting endeavor, helping to provide true relief. At OrthoGen, we provide the most compassionate and effective care possible. We are eager to allay any concerns by sharing your expectations for your treatments and recovery.
Preparation for Injection Therapies
General preparation for treatments is minor and involves limiting or discontinuing the use of specific medications or herbs in advance and immediately after the procedures to help create the right healing conditions in the body for maximum benefit. For example, discontinue anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning medications or supplements for at least one week before and after your appointment. For at least two weeks in advance, discontinue systemic steroids.
How Injection Protocols Work
A variety of injection therapies may be suggested to support your specific condition, and each is prepared differently.
Natural Lubricant
This all-natural lubricant works to coat the knee joint to improve smooth and fluid motion and is usually paired with various regenerative treatments to enhance comfort and healing. It is injected directly into the area needing lubrication.
PRP
Platelet Rich Plasma treatments (PRP) are an all-natural boost to the body’s healing processes with a limited chance of adverse reactions because it all comes from your own blood. Treatment includes collecting a small blood sample and separating PRP and growth factors using a centrifuge. Then, using advanced imaging technology, these concentrated elements are then injected directly into the damaged area to promote rapid healing.
GenStem
GenStem is OrthoGen’s comprehensive, multi-step regenerative program that uses techniques to achieve pain relief. Built around the healing powers of stem cells, these renewing and differentiating elements move into areas of severe damage to recreate and regenerate tissues to reduce inflammation, re-nourish the joint, and accelerate healing.
What to Expect for Your Injection Therapy Recovery
While treatments are incredibly impactful, it is essential to recognize that seeing the full benefit of your injection therapies will take some time. Unlike steroid injections that treat the symptoms of joint pain, injection therapies work by supporting natural healing of the injury at the source to eliminate pain, and nature takes time.
- While bed rest is discouraged, it is essential to allow at least 24-48 hours following your procedure to limit activity to very light movement and range of motion exercises.
- Mild pain and inflammation are expected, and ice can be applied in half-hour increments for relief. Acetaminophen can be used.
- After the first 24 hours, heat can be applied for any muscle spasms or aching.
- A compression sleeve or neoprene wrap might be helpful for up to 1-week post-procedure.
- Very gradually increase activity, using your discomfort as a guideline. If it hurts, do not do it! Gentle water walking or a pool float can provide non-impact movement after injection site healing.
- After the first week, gentle cardio exercises can be introduced (stationary bike, elliptical) and physical therapies.
- After four weeks, introduce weight-bearing exercises.
- Above all, rest when needed!
When It’s Time for Relief, It’s Time to Call OrthoGen Clinics
If joint pain and irritation have compromised your daily comfort and active lifestyle, it is time to get the pain relief professionals at OrthoGen Clinics on your support team. Our double-board certified physicians are dedicated to providing the most advanced procedures available in medicine today to give our patients the reliable and effective relief they deserve. Interested in learning more about how we can help? Call us today to get your questions answered.