MSK Doctor Zaid Matti

Opening Hours : Mon-Friday : 10 AM – 4 PM

Email : admin@mskdoc.co.nz  |  Phone : 02727 00100
Opening Hours : Mon-Friday : 10 AM – 4 PM

Email : admin@mskdoc.co.nz  |  Phone : 02727 00100  |  Opening Hours : Mon-Friday : 10 AM – 4 PM

Blog

Understanding Facet Joint Pain and the Benefits of PRP Therapy

By: Dr Zaid Matti
Musculoskeletal Medicine Specialist
MBChB, PgDipMSM Otago, PgDipSurgAnat Otago

Facet joint pain is a significant contributor to chronic lower back discomfort, accounting for up to 45% of cases.

These small joints, crucial for spinal movement and stability, can become inflamed or degenerate, especially with age or in individuals suffering from arthritis.

PRP Therapy
Recognizing the Symptoms

Facet joint-related pain typically presents as localized back pain that intensifies during specific movements. Patients often experience stiffness and a reduced range of motion, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life.

Traditional Treatment Approaches

Historically, management strategies have included medication, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections. While these approaches can provide relief, their effects are often temporary and may diminish over time.
Introducing PRP Therapy: A Regenerative Alternative
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an emerging treatment that harnesses the body’s own healing capabilities. By using concentrated platelets derived from the patient’s blood, PRP injections target inflammation and promote tissue regeneration through a simple, minimally invasive procedure guided by medical imaging.

What Does the Research Say?

Recent clinical studies provide promising evidence supporting PRP therapy’s efficacy compared to conventional corticosteroid injections. Key findings from recent research highlight:
• Sustained pain relief and significant functional improvement lasting up to six months.
• An excellent safety profile with no major adverse effects reported.
(For further reading, refer to the detailed study published here.)

Why Choose PRP Therapy?

PRP therapy offers several advantages:
• Natural and Regenerative: Leverages your body’s intrinsic healing mechanisms.
• Longer-lasting Relief: Compared to corticosteroids, PRP provides prolonged pain relief.
• Safety and Comfort: Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort and downtime.
If you’re struggling with chronic low back pain and conventional treatments have not provided lasting relief, PRP therapy might be the innovative, effective solution you need.