Knee Pain Treatment
Dr. Fretta’s approach to knee pain treatment varies, depending upon the severity of the problem. For mild to moderate knee problems the treatment may incorporate a series of injections which include the following steps:
Steroid Injection
An injection of a steroid called Methylprednisolone mixed with lidocaine, a local anesthetic. The lidocaine immediately eliminates pain for several days. The steroid stops the inflammation which causes the pain. Dr. Fretta utilizes an X Ray Fluoroscopy machine for accuracy and to assure the solution is injection precisely in the right location.
Sodium Hyaluronic Acid Injection
Next the patient can have sodium hyaluronic acid gel injections. Either 3 or 5 weekly injections are recommended if it is just a question of narrow space between the knee bones. Weekly injections create a cushion in the joint to prevent bone on bone joint deterioration.
Tissue Repair with Exosomes
If the cartilage tendons or bone itself are damaged, it is suggested to have an exosome injection to stimulate tissue repair. Then, 3 weeks later, the hyaluronic acid gel can be injected to help separate the bones, so the healed tissue won’t be further damaged.
Pricing
Most insurance will cover the steroid injection. Out of pocket cost is $150
Insurance doesn’t cover exosome injections; the cost is 2,525 for a 3.5 trillion exosome syringe.