Plasmolifting PRP and Hyaluronic Acid: Combining for Effective Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis) is one of the most common diseases, characterized by pain and limited mobility. Modern medicine offers several effective treatment methods, and one of the most promising is Plasmolifting PRP. In this article, I will explain how the combination of Plasmolifting PRP with hyaluronic acid can significantly improve the results of osteoarthritis treatment and why it is important to choose the right therapy methods.
Why is it important to choose the right treatment methods?
Pain in knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common complaints among patients, and it can significantly reduce quality of life. Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most widespread diseases, requiring a careful and comprehensive approach to treatment.
Various treatment methods are widely used in osteoarthritis. Traditionally, medications such as glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisone or triamcinolone) and hyaluronic acid for intra-articular injections are used. However, in my opinion, these are not always the best options. I recommend avoiding surgery and initial therapy with glucocorticoids, as these methods provide only short-term relief and may cause significant side effects.
Glucocorticoids can provide quick pain relief, but their effect lasts only up to one month, and prolonged use can affect further treatment and even lead to tissue atrophy.
Why is Plasmolifting PRP the best choice?
Plasmolifting PRP is an ideal and natural method for treating osteoarthritis that promotes tissue regeneration and pain relief. This method uses the patient's own plasma, eliminating the risk of allergic reactions and side effects.
The main advantage of Plasmolifting PRP lies in its safety and its ability to address the causes of the disease. Unlike hormonal drugs, plasma helps activate tissue regeneration processes, improving their structure and functionality.
Additionally, Plasmolifting PRP not only reduces inflammation but also significantly improves joint mobility by restoring its cushioning properties. This method can form the basis for comprehensive osteoarthritis treatment, especially when combined with other approaches.
Combining Plasmolifting PRP with Hyaluronic Acid
The combination of Plasmolifting PRP with hyaluronic acid can yield excellent results, as both methods address different aspects of the disease. Hyaluronic acid serves as a substitute for joint fluid, restoring its volume and reducing friction within the joint. This helps reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
However, it is important to understand that hyaluronic acid does not solve all the problems of osteoarthritis, especially when it comes to tissue regeneration. Plasmolifting PRP, on the other hand, activates the body's natural processes for restoring joint tissues, making it an ideal complement to hyaluronic acid therapy.
How does the combination of these methods work?
A practical example: A 72-year-old patient, Mr. R., came to me seeking treatment for his gonarthrosis. The primary symptom was knee pain, and the patient had already undergone a course of 4 Plasmolifting PRP treatments. However, the pain relief was minimal, and the patient was disappointed.
I contacted the treating physician, and as often happens in medicine, we found a solution through discussion. It turned out that after the Plasmolifting PRP course, the soft tissues of the knee had indeed improved — the stiffness had gone, and joint mobility had increased. However, the main source of pain was in the intra-articular tissues and bone structures. We decided to supplement the therapy with an injection of hyaluronic acid into the joint.
After the hyaluronic acid injection, the patient experienced significant relief, and continuing the Plasmolifting PRP treatment helped improve the condition of the tissues and stabilize the results.
Why shouldn’t hyaluronic acid be prescribed immediately?
It is important to understand that with osteoarthritis, it is not always immediately clear what exactly is causing the pain. In most cases, before prescribing hyaluronic acid, it is advisable to conduct Plasmolifting PRP therapy to activate tissue restoration. Often, doctors start with hyaluronic acid and do not see significant improvements before adding Plasmolifting PRP.
Hyaluronic acid addresses the problem of joint fluid and improves joint lubrication, while Plasmolifting PRP works on restoring damaged tissues and stimulating their regeneration. Therefore, in my experience, it is best to complete a course of Plasmolifting PRP first and then supplement it with hyaluronic acid if clinically necessary.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Doctor
For effective osteoarthritis treatment, it is crucial to find a qualified and experienced doctor who understands all aspects of the disease and can choose the optimal treatment. Do not start therapy with hormonal medications without prior consultation with a doctor. This will help avoid unnecessary side effects and improve treatment outcomes.
Taking care of your health is your choice. Do not delay treatment — start it as soon as possible to improve your quality of life and restore joint mobility!
Kind regards,
Dr. Renat Akhmerov®
Dr. Renat Akhmerov, D.Sc.
Developer of Plasmolifting PRP Technologies
Vienna, November 2, 2024