Residents in Idaho with active lifestyles often have to deal with chronic pain, especially after the age of 35. Many people have physically demanding jobs, which cause joint, tendon, and muscle injuries. Traditional pain management often involves medications and surgery, and painkillers can only mask symptoms but fail to offer long-term relief. Regenerative medicine v is now the choice of many, and renowned names like The Regenerative & Joint Clinic now offer options of stem cell therapy and PRP treatment for residents of cities like Pocatello and Twin Falls. In this post, we are comparing both choices.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy in Detail
PRP involves using plasma derived from the blood of the individual to trigger healing. The plasma contains growth factors that help repair tissues and reduce pain. The treatment starts with drawing a small blood sample, which is then spun in a centrifuge to get PRP. The platelet-rich plasma is again injected into the pain areas, which accelerates natural healing, collagen growth, and reduces inflammation. PRP is often recommended for rotator cuff injuries, mild arthritis, and tennis elbow.
Stem Cell Therapy in Detail
This therapy uses mesenchymal stem cells, or MSCs. MSCs are usually obtained from the bone marrow or fat. After administering a local anesthetic, doctors will get the stem cells, which are then injected into the targeted area after processing. MSCs release growth factors, which help with tissue regeneration. Individuals who have severe joint degeneration, chronic back pain, or are recovering from surgeries may benefit from the therapy.
Stem Cell vs. PRP: Differences Explained
As we discussed, PRP uses plasma from the patient’s body, while stem cell uses bone marrow-derived cells. PRP allows existing cells to heal, but stem cells can help create new cells and structural tissues. In terms of the process, PRP is simpler and does not require the person to be at rest. Stem cell therapy is more advanced and requires extra processing. While both are used for treating pain conditions, PRP is ideal for mild to moderate conditions. Stem cells work better for advanced degeneration. You will need more rest with stem cell therapy compared to PRP.
What Should You Consider?
The answer isn’t that simple. Some patients may need both, while others with mild but chronic pain may benefit from PRP alone. During the first visit, your doctor will check your medical history so far, order tests, which may include MRI, X-ray, and ultrasound, and lab tests to check what may work best for you.
Other Things to Know
PRP therapy is a simple in-office process that doesn’t take more than two hours. Once PRP is ready, the medical provider will use a local numbing agent and inject the plasma under ultrasound or fluoroscopy. You may have mild soreness for two days, which should subside. For stem cell therapy, doctors may consider mild sedation for comfort. You will have to limit certain activities for some time. Note that none of these treatments offer instant results. The process of tissue regeneration and strength rebuilding can take as long as six months, and most patients will need more than two visits.
Choose a Reputable Regenerative Medicine Clinic
Take your time to find a dependable regenerative medicine clinic in Idaho, as the success rate of PRP and stem cell therapy largely depends on the expertise of the medical team. You should also ask questions during the first visit, which include understanding each treatment with benefits, risks, along with costs. Also, don’t forget to ask whether you would need physical therapy with the process and other lifestyle changes, which are vital for better results. Chronic pain needs more than just painkillers, and with regenerative medicine, you can change how you manage symptoms.