The Community Memorial (CMH) healthcare network launches a new procedure option for patients with joint pain or injury.

Platelet-rich plasma injections, or PRP, is a treatment now offered at Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics. The outpatient procedure involves drawing blood from a patient and processing it with a machine called a centrifuge to separate the platelets out and then reinject the platelets into the patient at their site of pain or injury.

Offered by Dr. Kamal Banga, the PRP procedure can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including joint pain such as osteoarthritis, tennis and golfer elbow, and other sports injuries. “The PRP process allows the concentrated plasma to be reintroduced into the area of discomfort or injury, stimulating the healing process,” noted Dr. Banga. “At the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics, I welcome patients to come in for a consult and see if they’re a candidate.”

Rich in growth factors, the injected platelets work to accelerate healing, as studies have shown that increased concentration may shorten healing time for injuries and decrease pain for patients. “This innovative treatment may provide help in muscle, tendon and ligament pain,” added Banga. “There is also some research that there may be relief in osteoarthritis with PRP injections by reducing inflammation.”

The platelets injected back into the patient’s site of issue attract the body’s stem cells to the area. This aids the body in recognizing the injury as a priority, decreasing the length of time to heal than the body could do on its own. The success rate depends on individual factors and the entire procedure process is usually done in under an hour. Patients can discuss details with Dr. Banga at the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics,

“The ability to offer this modern treatment locally is an exciting feat for our team,” added Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer. “Dr. Banga continues to work to expand the care that patients receive in the CMH network, and we’re excited to lead the way in new services and treatment options. We encourage and welcome patients to call to learn more about PRP.”

With a focused initiative to improve access to quality primary care in the region, CMH has dedicated considerable efforts to bolster its provider team and support staff. This activity around orthopedic care has supported the network in several areas of growth.

The Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics is open within the Center for Specialties building at 160 Broad Street in Hamilton, on the main campus, and can be reached at 315.824.7040. With the Hospital directly next door, services are streamlined for patient efficiency and offers a walk-in clinic open each weekday from 8am to 3pm. The practice also grants patients ease and convenience, with quick appointments following an Emergency Department visit. The Orthopedics team provides specialty care for knee, hip, and shoulder joints, along with fracture trauma care and sports medicine treatment for injured athletes.

Recently, the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics has expanded care into New Hartford each Wednesday, with a new office located at 83 Genesee Street within the CNY Brain and Spine building. This expansion aims to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.