Dr. Siddharth Tambar, a distinguished expert in rheumatology and regenerative medicine, shares insights into a recent case highlighting the effectiveness of platelet rich plasma (PRP) in alleviating knee pain.

The Case:

A 35-year-old woman presented with chronic left knee pain, having previously undergone successful treatment on her right knee utilizing bone marrow-derived stem cells.

Diagnosis:

Examinations revealed moderate arthritis in the patellofemoral joint, with findings consistent with patellofemoral joint pain. Despite prior conservative treatments, including physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, the patient experienced persistent discomfort.

The Solution:

Given the mild to moderate arthritis, PRP emerged as the optimal treatment choice. PRP involves concentrating platelets from the patient’s blood and reinjecting them into the affected tissue.

The Procedure:

The treatment regimen involved draining a Baker’s cyst—a fluid collection at the back of the knee—followed by PRP injections into the patellofemoral joint and surrounding ligaments and tendons.

Post-Treatment Expectations:

Following treatment, the patient can expect temporary inflammation, necessitating reduced activity for approximately one week. Subsequent improvement should be noticeable within three to four weeks, with continued enhancement over the next six months.

Key Takeaways:

• Precision: Utilizing ultrasound guidance ensures accurate administration of PRP, maximizing treatment efficacy.
• Comprehensive Approach: Addressing not only the joint but also supporting soft tissues through prolotherapy optimizes outcomes and enhances functional recovery.

Dr. Tambar underscores the success of PRP treatment in mitigating knee pain, emphasizing the importance of tailored orthobiologic interventions and meticulous treatment execution for optimal patient outcomes.