Joint injections are one of the treatment methods that, in certain cases, can be used to reduce joint pain and inflammation. The type of injection is chosen taking into account the diagnosis, symptoms, previous treatment and possible contraindications.
Baltic American Clinic performs joint injections, joint aspirations and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Whether injections of stem cells from adipose (fat) tissue can be used is assessed individually. The indications, strength of scientific evidence and likely benefit differ between these procedures, so treatment options are assessed individually.
A procedure is recommended only after the diagnosis and symptoms have been assessed.
Treatment of certain painful and inflammatory joint conditions.
A treatment method that uses a platelet concentrate prepared from the patient’s own blood.
Changes in symptoms and the need for further treatment are assessed.
When may joint injections be recommended?
- You have joint pain related to a diagnosed condition.
- Mobility has decreased because of inflammatory changes.
- Conservative treatment is not effective enough.
- Fluid is building up in the joint and needs to be tested or removed.
- The doctor identifies specific indications for PRP therapy or another procedure.
Not every case of joint pain needs an injection. First, it is important to find the cause.
Which procedures are performed?
Joint injections
Depending on the medical indications, medicines chosen by the doctor may be injected into the joint. The specific medicine and its suitability are discussed during the consultation.
Joint aspiration
Accumulated fluid can be removed from the joint with a needle. If needed, it is sent for laboratory testing.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
A platelet concentrate is prepared from the patient’s blood and injected into the area being treated. The evidence for the effectiveness of PRP varies by diagnosis; the procedure does not guarantee regeneration of cartilage or other tissues.
Injections of stem cells from adipose tissue
The clinical benefit of this method for most joint diseases has not been sufficiently confirmed by high-quality studies. It is not a treatment proven to restore joint cartilage.
How is the procedure carried out?
Your symptoms, diagnosis, test results and previous treatment are assessed.
The doctor discusses the possible benefits, alternatives, limitations and risks.
The medicines you take, allergies, signs of infection and bleeding risk are assessed.
The planned procedure is performed under aseptic conditions. For PRP therapy, your blood is drawn and processed before the injection.
You are given advice on physical activity, possible reactions and further treatment.
How to prepare for a joint injection
Tell the doctor about any medicines you take that affect blood clotting, allergies, infections and previous reactions to injections.
Before PRP therapy you may be given additional advice about taking certain medicines. Do not stop taking them on your own.
What are the possible risks?
After an injection there may be temporary pain, swelling, bruising or a local reaction. In rare cases, an infection or other complications may develop.
If after the procedure the joint becomes very red or hot, the pain increases or you develop a fever, you need an urgent medical examination.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is PRP therapy suitable for all patients with knee osteoarthritis?
No. Study results are mixed, and whether the treatment is suitable depends on the stage of the disease and other factors.
Is my own blood used for a PRP injection?
Yes. The PRP preparation is made from the patient’s own blood.
Are joint aspiration and joint injection the same thing?
No. During aspiration fluid may be removed, while during an injection a preparation is injected into the joint. Sometimes the two procedures are combined.
Can I do sport after an injection?
Restrictions on physical activity depend on the procedure performed. Your doctor will give you specific advice.
Does a stem cell injection restore joint cartilage?
Such a result cannot be guaranteed. The effectiveness and long-term safety of these procedures for various joint diseases are still being studied.
Can an injection replace joint replacement surgery?
In some cases it can relieve symptoms, but it does not reverse advanced structural changes in the joint.
Price of joint injections and PRP therapy
Prices for joint injections, joint aspirations, PRP therapy and other procedures are set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force at the time.
The need for a consultation, additional tests and procedures, and the expected costs, are discussed before treatment.