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Effective Alternatives to Knee Surgery for Pain & Meniscus Injury

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The search for reliable alternatives to knee surgery ends. Knee pain and meniscus injuries are common problems that can affect everyday life. Usually, surgery is the go-to solution for such issues. However, some surgeries like meniscectomy have been questioned for their effectiveness. This brings about the need to look into other treatment options.

Older woman bending knee to touch toes

The Shortcomings of Meniscectomy

Meniscectomy is a standard surgery for knee pain, but recent studies have shown it might not be as effective as once thought. Research reveals there’s not much difference between meniscectomy and “fake” surgery in improving knee issues. The medical journal Cureus states, “Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM) is currently the most performed orthopedic procedure around the globe. However, recent studies have conclusively shown that outcomes after an arthroscopic partial meniscectomy are no better than the outcomes after a sham-placebo “fake” surgery.”

For athletes, the urgency to return to their sport post-injury often drives the decision towards surgery. However, studies reveal a concerning link between meniscus surgery and an increased risk of knee arthritis, casting a shadow on its perceived effectiveness. If you do the math, that means over 15-20% or about 1 in 5 elite athletes do not return to their sport. And those that do, now have a higher arthritis risk.

The Indian Journal of Orthopaedics says, “Clinical practice is moving away from treating meniscal tears in patients with osteoarthritis unless there are mechanical symptoms (Knee function is significantly compromised).” Especially for people over 50, the results of meniscectomy are not very promising, making it crucial to explore other treatments with better outcomes and fewer risks. Unfortunately, patients are often too optimistic that surgery will fix everything. “In general, patients undergoing arthroscopic meniscus surgery were too optimistic regarding their recovery time and postoperative participation in leisure activities.”

In a recent study from January 2023, published in the Osteoarthritis Cartilage journal, researchers looked at the differences between arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and non-surgical or fake treatments in patients with confirmed degenerative meniscus tears through MRI scans. What was the result? They found that the overall knee function and quality of life were the same whether patients had the meniscus surgery or the fake surgery. No specific group of patients showed better results with the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy compared to the fake surgery.

The Promise of Regenerative Orthopedic Injection Therapy

Regenerative orthopedic injection therapy is a hopeful alternative for those who prefer non-surgical treatments. This therapy includes treatments like Hyaluronic Gel injections, Prolotherapy, Prolozone, Platelet-Rich Plasma, and messenger signaling cell therapy. These treatments aim to stabilize the knee and promote natural healing, unlike meniscectomy which can lead to knee instability and more arthritis symptoms.

Alternatives to Knee Surgery for Meniscal Repair

PRP treatment is especially promising for repairing a damaged meniscus and addressing other related injuries. PRP is rich in growth factors that speed up the healing process. Combined with dextrose prolotherapy, it not only helps heal the meniscus injury but also addresses any ligament and tendon damage. This holistic approach shows the potential of regenerative therapies in treating knee pain and meniscus injuries.

Benefits of Regenerative Orthopedics Over Surgery

Comparing regenerative orthopedics with traditional surgery, the benefits are clear. Surgery comes with risks like blood clots, infections, and long recovery times. On the other hand, regenerative treatments offer a safer choice with quicker recovery. Across all outcomes, no relevant subgroup of patients benefitted more from the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy vs the sham “fake” surgery. The ability of regenerative treatments to enhance natural healing makes a strong case for those dealing with knee pain and meniscus injuries to consider these less invasive options.

A Better, Less Invasive Option

The evidence points towards regenerative orthopedic injection therapy as a better, less invasive option for tackling knee pain and meniscus injuries compared to traditional surgery. Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine is leading the way in this medical evolution, providing personalized treatment plans to meet your specific needs. Don’t let knee pain control your life. Take a positive step today.  Your journey to a pain-free life is within reach—grab this opportunity.

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Easing Back Pain and Restoring Quality of Life

Man holding back while he's in the forest

The Lumbar Decompression Advantage

Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide, often causing discomfort, reduced mobility, and a diminished quality of life. Among the various treatment options available, lumbar decompression has emerged as a promising solution for patients suffering from back pain. This minimally invasive procedure targets the root causes of back pain and offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve a patient’s overall well-being.

Understanding Lumbar Decompression

Lumbar decompression, also known as spinal decompression, is a medical procedure designed to alleviate the symptoms of back pain by relieving pressure on the spinal nerves and discs. It involves creating space within the spinal canal and addressing issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. The procedure can be performed using various techniques, including surgical and non-surgical methods.

Benefits of Lumbar Decompression for Back Pain

  1. Pain Relief: The primary goal of lumbar decompression is to provide effective pain relief. By alleviating pressure on compressed nerves, patients often experience a reduction in pain, allowing them to engage in daily activities more comfortably.
  2. Minimally Invasive: One of the standout advantages of lumbar decompression is its minimally invasive nature. In comparison to traditional open surgeries, minimally invasive procedures reduced tissue damage, and offer quicker recovery times.
  3. Shorter Recovery Time: Patients who undergo lumbar decompression often experience shorter recovery periods compared to more invasive surgical procedures. This enables them to return to their regular activities sooner and regain their quality of life faster.
  4. Preservation of Spinal Integrity: Lumbar decompression procedures are designed to preserve the integrity of the spine while addressing underlying issues. This reduces the risk of spinal instability and the need for more extensive surgeries.
  5. Improved Mobility: Back pain can severely limit mobility, making even simple tasks challenging. Lumbar decompression can improve range of motion by addressing the factors contributing to pain, allowing patients to move more freely and engage in physical activities.
  6. Reduced Dependency on Medications: Chronic back pain often leads to a reliance on pain medications, which can have negative side effects. Lumbar decompression aims to address the root cause of the pain, potentially reducing the need for long-term medication use.
  7. Customized Approach: Lumbar decompression procedures can be tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Physicians can adapt the technique to the specific spinal condition and the patient’s overall health, providing the most personalized and effective treatment.
  8. Positive Psychological Impact: Chronic pain can take a toll on a patient’s mental health. Successful lumbar decompression can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, reduced pain and an overall enhancement in psychological well-being.
  9. Long-Term Results: While individual outcomes may vary, many patients experience long-lasting results from lumbar decompression procedures. Addressing the root causes of back pain can lead to sustained relief and an improved quality of life.

Conclusion

Lumbar decompression has emerged as a valuable option for individuals grappling with back pain. By targeting the underlying causes of discomfort, this minimally invasive procedure offers a range of benefits, including pain relief, improved mobility, and a shorter recovery time. As medical technology advances, lumbar decompression techniques continue to evolve, providing patients with increasingly effective and personalized solutions. However, like any medical procedure, it’s crucial for patients to consult with qualified healthcare professionals to determine whether lumbar decompression is the right choice for their specific condition.

Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine can help you recover from back pain and related discomfort. We have a team of experienced practitioners who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Group of youths exercising in the park

The Advantages of Cervical Decompression

Group of youths exercising in the park

Reclaiming Comfort and Mobility

Neck pain and related discomfort can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, causing limitations in movement, reduced productivity, and a diminished quality of life. Cervical decompression has emerged as a valuable solution for individuals suffering from cervical spine issues, offering a range of benefits that can alleviate pain and restore overall well-being. This article explores the advantages of cervical decompression and its potential to provide relief to those struggling with neck pain.

Understanding Cervical Decompression

Cervical decompression is a medical procedure designed to address neck pain and related symptoms by relieving pressure on the spinal nerves, discs, and surrounding structures in the cervical (neck) region. The procedure aims to create space within the spinal canal, thereby alleviating issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and nerve compression. Cervical decompression can be achieved through various methods, including surgical and non-surgical approaches.

Benefits of Cervical Decompression for Neck Pain

  1. Effective Pain Relief: The primary objective of cervical decompression is to provide substantial pain relief. By relieving pressure on compressed nerves and addressing the underlying causes of neck pain, patients often experience a reduction in discomfort and an improved quality of life.
  2. Minimally Invasive Techniques: Many cervical decompression procedures utilize minimally invasive techniques, which involve less tissue disruption, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries.
  3. Quick Recovery: Patients who undergo cervical decompression often experience shorter recovery periods, enabling them to return to their regular activities sooner and with reduced discomfort.
  4. Preservation of Neck Stability: Cervical decompression procedures are designed to maintain the stability of the neck while addressing underlying issues. This reduces the risk of instability and the need for more invasive surgeries.
  5. Enhanced Neck Mobility: Neck pain can restrict mobility and impact everyday tasks. Cervical decompression can enhance range of motion by addressing the factors contributing to pain, allowing patients to move their necks more freely.
  6. Reduced Dependence on Medications: Chronic neck pain often leads to reliance on pain medications, which can have adverse side effects. Cervical decompression aims to treat the root causes of pain, potentially reducing the need for long-term medication use.
  7. Customized Approach: Cervical decompression procedures can be tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Physicianscan adapt the technique to the patient’s unique cervical condition and overall health, ensuring personalized and effective treatment.
  8. Positive Psychological Impact: Chronic pain can have a profound effect on mental well-being. Successful cervical decompression can lead to improved mood, reduced pain, reduced anxiety, and an overall enhancement in psychological health.
  9. Potential for Long-Term Relief: While individual outcomes vary, many patients experience sustained relief from cervical decompression procedures. Addressing the underlying causes of neck pain can lead to enduring results and an improved quality of life.

Conclusion

Cervical decompression offers a ray of hope for individuals burdened by neck pain and related discomfort. By tackling the root causes of pain, this approach provides a range of benefits, including effective pain relief, improved neck mobility, and a shorter recovery period. As medical technology continues to evolve, cervical decompression techniques are becoming increasingly sophisticated and personalized, allowing patients to find relief in their unique circumstances. However, it is crucial for patients to consult with qualified healthcare professionals to determine whether cervical decompression is suitable for their specific condition and needs.

Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine can help you recover from neck pain and related discomfort. We have a team of experienced practitioners who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Man holding Shoulder in pain

Hyaluronic Gel for Osteoarthritis Pain in Knees & Shoulders

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Cheerful active senior couple jogging in the park. Exercise toge

Hyaluronic gel, also known as hyaluronic gel injection or viscosupplementation, is a medical treatment that involves injecting a gel-like substance containing hyaluronic fluid medication into the joints, typically the knee or shoulder, to provide relief for osteoarthritis pain. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function. Hyaluronic gel is a natural component of joint fluid and cartilage and is believed to help lubricate and cushion joints.

How It Works

Hyaluronic gel injections are intended to mimic the natural synovial fluid present in healthy joints, thereby improving joint lubrication and shock absorption. The injections may also have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis.

Benefits:

  1. Pain Relief: Hyaluronic gel injections can provide relief from joint pain associated with osteoarthritis. Some patients experience reduced pain and improved joint function, allowing them to engage in daily activities with less or no discomfort. In fact, one of our 70-year-old patients went snow skiing after completing his series of 5 injections. A 95-year-old lady with stage 3-4 osteoarthritis and a femoral condyle fracture got rid of her walker by the fourth injection and she could go down 10 steps to do laundry.
  2. Improved Joint Mobility: By lubricating and cushioning the joints, hyaluronic gel injections can help improve joint mobility and flexibility.
  3. Non-Surgical Option: Hyaluronic gel injections are a non-surgical alternative to manage osteoarthritis pain, which can be particularly appealing for patients who wish to avoid surgery or who are not candidates for surgical interventions due to poor health, especially poor heart health.
  4. Minimal Downtime: The injections are typically administered in a healthcare setting and do not require a lengthy recovery period. Patients can usually resume their regular activities shortly after the procedure.

Considerations:

  1. Variable Results: While some patients experience significant pain relief and improved joint function after hyaluronic gel injections, the results can vary from person to person. Not everyone will respond positively to the treatment; however, most patients do respond very positively to hyaluronic gel injections. Hyaluronic gel injections are especially effective when injections are performed with direct visualization using fluoroscopic X-ray or Ultrasound guidance as is the case at Kentuckiana Medicine. You and your doctor will see correct and precise needle placement within the joint with every procedure. Many clinics DO NOT use direct visualization and consequently misplace the medication 1 out of every 3 injections according to research studies. One can imagine less than ideal results if every 3rd injection is not correctly placed within the joint space.
  2. Duration of Effects: The effects of hyaluronic gel injections are not permanent. The duration of pain relief can vary, and some patients may need repeat injections to maintain the benefits. Benefits can last 6 -36 months or longer depending on each individual’s stage of arthritis. Medicare allows for 5 injections [one per week] which may be repeated every 6 months if the patient benefits from the first series of injections and if the pain and dysfunction are returning.
  3. Cost: Hyaluronic gel injections can be costly, and insurance coverage may vary. Patients should discuss the cost and potential insurance coverage with their healthcare provider. Traditional Medicare offers full and complete coverage so NO COST to the patient. Other commercial insurances offer full or partial coverage. Having little to no out-pocket cost is a tremendous advantage. Not needing to take time off work for rehabilitation is also a significant cost saver. With many deductibles ranging between $5-10,000, hyaluronic gel injections are often a more affordable and successful treatment.
  4. Medical Assessment: Not all individuals with osteoarthritis are suitable candidates for hyaluronic gel injections. A thorough medical assessment by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine if the treatment is appropriate.

Conclusion:

Hyaluronic gel injections can be a viable option for managing pain associated with osteoarthritis in the knees and shoulders. If you’re considering this treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your condition, discuss potential benefits and risks, and guide you in making an informed decision about the best approach to managing your osteoarthritis pain.

Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine can help treat your osteoarthritis pain. We have a team of experienced practitioners who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Prolotherapy Injection Therapy

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Young couple doing their stretches in the park

Prolotherapy, short for “proliferative therapy,” is a medical treatment that involves the injection of substances, typically an anesthetic like procaine or lidocaine, vitamins, and dextrose (a type of sugar solution), into injured or painful areas of the body, such as joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues.

The goal of prolotherapy is to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, promote tissue repair, and alleviate pain in areas that may not be healing properly on their own.

How Prolotherapy Works

Prolotherapy is based on the principle that the injection of a mild irritant solution into damaged or weakened tissue triggers a localized inflammatory response. This response encourages increased blood flow, recruitment of healing cells, and deposition of new collagen fibers, ultimately strengthening and stabilizing the injured area.

Conditions Treated:

Prolotherapy is often used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

  1. Joint Pain: Prolotherapy can be used for conditions like osteoarthritis, where the injection aims to provide pain relief and improve joint function.
  2. Tendon and Ligament Injuries: Prolotherapy is used to target areas of chronic pain or instability caused by tendon and ligament injuries.
  3. Chronic Back Pain: It may be considered for chronic back pain caused by ligament laxity or instability.
  4. Sports Injuries: Prolotherapy is sometimes used to address sports-related injuries, such as sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

Benefits and Considerations:

  1. Non-Surgical Approach: Prolotherapy offers a non-surgical option for pain relief and tissue repair, which can be appealing to individuals who want to avoid surgery.
  2. Minimally Invasive: The injections are minimally invasive and are typically performed in an outpatient setting. Recovery time is usually shorter compared to surgical procedures.
  3. Individual Response: Responses to prolotherapy can vary among individuals. Some patients experience significant pain relief and improved function, while others may experience more modest results.
  4. Multiple Sessions: Multiple prolotherapy sessions are often required to achieve optimal results. The injections are typically spaced several weeks apart. On average 4 sessions are needed.
  5. Evidence: The scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of prolotherapy is mixed. While the majority of studies suggest benefits and most patients improve, others show limited or inconclusive results.
  6. Qualified Practitioners: Prolotherapy should be administered by qualified healthcare professionals who are trained and experienced in the technique.

Conclusion

Prolotherapy is an alternative treatment approach for musculoskeletal pain and injuries that aims to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. It may be a consideration for individuals seeking non-surgical options for pain relief and tissue repair. If you’re considering prolotherapy, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your condition, discuss potential benefits and risks, and determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.

Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine can help you recover from conditions that cause musculoskeletal pain, such as joint injuries or tendon & ligament injuries. We have a team of experienced practitioners who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Boxer receiving treatment for a torn muscle

Prolozone Injection Therapy

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View of Skeleton with joints highlighted

Prolozone therapy is an alternative medical treatment that involves the injection of a mixture of ozone gas with or without prolotherapy into painful or injured areas of the body, such as joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues. The goal of prolozone therapy is to stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain by increasing oxygen delivery and circulation to the treated area. This therapy is often used as a potential option for musculoskeletal pain, including conditions like osteoarthritis and joint injuries.

How Prolozone Therapy Works

Prolozone therapy combines two components: ozone gas and a mixture of nutrients, which can include vitamins, minerals, and homeopathic substances. Ozone gas is a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms (O3), and it has been proposed to have potential healing properties due to its ability to increase oxygen utilization in tissues and modulate inflammation.

During a prolozone therapy session:

  1. Preparation: The skin over the treatment area is cleansed, and the injection site is prepared.
  2. Injection: A mixture of ozone gas and nutrients is injected into the targeted area using a fine needle. The injection aims to improve oxygen delivery, stimulate healing, and potentially reduce pain and inflammation.
  3. Response: The localized introduction of ozone gas can stimulate an oxidative response, which is believed to promote tissue repair and the production of collagen, a protein that plays a crucial role in tissue strength and stability.

Potential Benefits:

  1. Pain Relief: Prolozone therapy is intended to provide relief from pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions, injuries, and inflammation.
  2. Tissue Repair: The treatment’s goal is to stimulate tissue healing and repair by promoting collagen production and increasing oxygen delivery to the area.
  3. Reduced Inflammation: Ozone has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to pain reduction and improved function.
  4. Non-Surgical Approach: Prolozone therapy offers a non-surgical option for individuals seeking pain relief and improved joint function.

Considerations:

  1. Scientific Evidence: The scientific evidence supporting prolozone therapy is significant and supported by numerous pubmed research articles and patient’s experiences. Prolozone has been offered in Germany for over 70 years More research is needed to establish its efficacy and safety.
  2. Patient Response: Responses to prolozone therapy can vary among individuals. While some patients report positive outcomes, others may not experience significant benefits.
  3. Qualified Practitioners: Prolozone therapy should be administered by qualified healthcare professionals who are trained and experienced in the technique.
  4. Alternative Treatments: Individuals considering prolozone therapy should also explore evidence-based treatments, including conventional medical interventions and physical therapies.

Conclusion:

Prolozone therapy is an alternative treatment option that aims to stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain by injecting a mixture of ozone gas and nutrients into affected areas. While some individuals report positive outcomes, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. If you’re considering prolozone therapy for musculoskeletal pain or injuries, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your condition, discuss potential benefits and risks, and guide you in making an informed decision about the best approach to managing your pain and promoting healing.

Kentuckiana Integrative Medicine can help you recover from conditions that cause musculoskeletal pain, such as osteoarthritis and joint injuries. We have a team of experienced practitioners who can help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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