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We Specialize in PRP & MFAT Arthritis Pain Treatments for KNEE, HIP, SHOULDER, ELBOW, HAND/WRIST, and ANKLE/FOOT
Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes joint pain and stiffness, and other symptoms that vary by type:
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Bone spurs
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Redness and warmth
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Swelling
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Decreased range of motion
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Tenderness
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Weakness and muscle wasting
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Grating sensation
Why PRP (Platelet Injections) May Be a Better Option Than Steroid Injections for Arthritis
For many years, steroid injections have been a common treatment for arthritis pain because they can temporarily reduce inflammation inside the joint. However, steroids do not repair damaged cartilage and repeated injections may actually contribute to cartilage breakdown over time.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) offers a different approach by using the body’s own healing factors to support joint health. PRP is created from a small sample of the patient’s blood and contains a high concentration of platelets and growth factors that help regulate inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. Instead of simply masking pain, PRP works to improve the biologic environment of the joint, which may help reduce inflammation and support cartilage health.
Because PRP uses the patient’s own natural healing components and focuses on supporting long-term joint function, it has become an increasingly popular treatment for knee, hip, and shoulder arthritis in patients looking for alternatives to repeated steroid injections or surgery.
SuperPRP+ DS (Double-Spin Super Concentrated)
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is rich in growth factors released by platelets, but its efficacy depends on the surrounding environment. Plasma proteins and other important signaling components such as A2M, IL1-ra, sTNF, PDGF-BB naturally support tissue repair and serve as scaffolding for cell migration.
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Protein concentrates can provide added benefit in PRP injections and help to boost healing.
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While we can achieve very high platelet doses with a single spin technique if we use enough blood, when we double-spin using a certain protocol we can super concentrate not only the platelets but the proteins in the plasma
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Double Spin PRP can yield up to 30% more platelets from a single draw
The use of autologous protein concentrate and fibrin derived from a patient's own plasma has become an increasingly valuable tool in cutting-edge orthopedics. These biologic agents promote tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall outcomes without introducing foreign substances into the body.
Normally we discard the plasma during a PRP procedure, but more recently we are finding use for different components in the plasma that is left behind. Using a double-spin modified protocol we can super concentrate both the platelets and the plasma proteins.
Adding HA (Hyaluronic Acid) to PRP
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There are many studies that support combining HA and PRP into one treatment protocol in order to optimize pain relief. This can be either staged or same-day depending on the patient's timeframe.
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HA (hyaluronic acid) is a long tested natural lubricant, which can help boost PRP's efficacy by providing longer lasting relief.
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This unique and customized approach is ideal for arthritis of many joints (knee, hip, shoulder, etc.).
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There is no charge to add HA to a SuperPRP+ injection
What is MFAT (Stem cells)?
Carolina Nonsurgical Orthopedics performs Micronized Adipose (MFAT) cell injections primarily for knee arthritis and bone-on-bone knee pain. We can also use it in the hip and shoulder joints, and sometimes in large tendon tears.
The procedure involves a minimally-invasive mini liposuction where we concentrate the fat tissue and break it down manually. This process requires years of expertise, and we are highly experienced with optimizing Cell Therapy techniques.
NOTE: We do not, and are not allowed to add any enzymes or additives to manipulate the fat tissue beyond what the FDA permits currently. This is called "minimal manipulation", and it is the only way that we can legally offer these injections.
While most patients are familiar with the term "Stem Cell". We have moved to using the term "MFAT" as the FDA does not allow the culturing of tissue in pure stem cells. Any clinic that does so in the United States is at risk of being shut down and prosecuted by the FDA. This also means that we can not quantify absolute numbers of stem cells present in an MFAT sample.
ARTHRITIS PAIN TREATMENTS
Surgery is NOT always the answer. There are many NONSURGICAL options available. Millions of people suffer from arthritis pain in this country, and many of them have been told that they need an immediate joint replacement. While it is true that some people might indeed need surgery, MOST patients have not tried all of the nonsurgical arthritis pain relief treatments that are available. In fact, many patients are scared of surgery, and are looking for alternative treatments, but are unsure of where to go.
NONSURGICAL ARTHRITIS TREATMENTS
REGENERATIVE ARTHRITIS TREATMENTS
READ MORE ABOUT ARTHRITIS PAIN
Arthritis pain is a common and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It primarily results from inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion. The severity of arthritis pain can vary from mild discomfort to severe, constant pain that interferes with daily activities and quality of life. There are two main types of arthritis that cause pain: osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Osteoarthritis, the most common form, occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones deteriorates over time due to wear and tear. This leads to bone-on-bone friction, which causes pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly after periods of activity or at the end of the day. OA most commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, but can also impact the hands and fingers. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the synovial lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. RA typically affects joints symmetrically (e.g., both wrists, knees, or hands) and can result in deformities if left untreated. Arthritis pain is often aggravated by activity, weather changes, or prolonged inactivity. The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations. Morning stiffness, limited range of motion, and swelling are common symptoms. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage and deformities, making early intervention essential.
WHY CAROLINA
NONSURGICAL ORTHOPEDICS
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All Providers are BOARD CERTIFIED and Specially Trained in Nonsurgical Orthopedics
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Over 50,000+ and Counting Procedures Performed
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Procedures Performed with Ultrasound Guidance for Accuracy and Safety
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Local and Independent Practice That is NOT a Franchise
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Discounts for Service Members, Teachers, and Public Servants
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Serving Raleigh Since 2013