Amniotic Injections
Amniotic injections are very helpful in the Regenerative treatment of arthritis symptoms throughout the lower extremity. These injections have been shown to decrease the constant pain and inflammation associated with arthritis instead of having surgery. Amniotic injections and grafts have also been used to treat chronic wounds, sprains and strains of the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the foot and ankle.
Amniotic fluid is derived from the innermost layer of placenta called the amnion. Even though amniotic allograft injections do not contain live stem cells, they do contain over 200 cell-derived factors that are contained in stem cells.
Placental tissue works through growth factors, proteins and cytokines that draw the patients local stem cells already in their body to the troubled area for regeneration of the tissues. Most people require one (1) injection every 3-5 years.
Compared to PRP, the growth factor profile of amnion derived fluid is pretty consistent and does not vary from patient to patient or more accurately, sample to sample.
Amniotic injections are very safe and effective with minimal to no adverse side effects. Amnion is also better than PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections because they both initiate the repair process but the amnion enhances regeneration of the tissues.
The majority of patients can expect reduced inflammation within hours but the reparative process can take up to 12 weeks depending on the severity of the condition.
