Introduction
Are you experiencing persistent shoulder pain? Does it disrupt your sleep or limit your arm movements? If you’ve tried various treatments without relief, or if you’ve been diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear, this article is for you.
Understanding the Rotator Cuff
What is the rotator cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of small muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These muscles play a crucial role in stabilising the shoulder during movement.
How do I know if I have a rotator cuff tear?
Symptoms of a possible rotator cuff tear include:
- Pain radiating from the shoulder to the elbow.
- Discomfort when lying on the shoulder.
- Night-time pain.
- Difficulty lifting the arm.
- A sensation of arm weakness.
Causes of rotator cuff tears
Rotator cuff injuries are prevalent, with various factors contributing to their occurrence. These can range from traumatic events, like a fall, to degenerative processes due to age or repetitive activities.
The PRP Injection Process
How are PRP injections carried out?
The process begins by drawing a small amount of blood from your arm. This blood is then centrifuged to separate the platelets, which are subsequently injected into the damaged tendon using ultrasound guidance.
How does PRP work?
PRP injections harness the healing potential of your own blood. Platelets, essential for healing, are introduced directly into the injured tendon, promoting a renewed healing process. Learn more about the PRP process here.
Benefits and Safety of PRP Injections
Are PRP injections safe?
Absolutely. PRP injections utilise your own blood, minimising the risk of adverse reactions. They are a safer alternative with fewer post-treatment complications compared to surgical options.
How many PRP injections will I need?
Typically, up to three PRP injections, spaced three to four weeks apart, are recommended for optimal results.
Maximising the Benefits of PRP Injections
How do I get the best out of a PRP injection?
Rehabilitation is key. After a brief rest period post-injection, a progressive rehabilitation programme under a physiotherapist’s guidance is crucial for achieving the best outcomes.
What should I do if my pain persists after PRP injections?
If PRP injections combined with rehabilitation don’t alleviate your symptoms, consulting an orthopaedic specialist to discuss surgical options might be the next step.
Conclusion
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Complete Injections.
References:
- Akan, O., Mete, B., Koçyiğit, H., & others. (2019). Efficacy of ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma in the repair of partial and full-thickness supraspinatus tears.
- Anvesh, D.G. & Lahari, D.K. (2021). A comparative analytical study of the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma and corticosteroid injections in the management of partial supraspinatus tear.
- Niazi, G.E., Hassan, M.S. & Elfawy, D.M. (2020). Ultrasound-guided injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in rotator cuff tendinopathy.