What are Amniotic Injections?
Amniotic injections are a therapeutic treatment that involves the administration of amniotic fluid into the site of injury to enhance healing by stimulating the growth of tissue. Amniotic fluid is a protective fluid that surrounds the fetus in the womb and provides proteins, collagen, carbohydrates, hyaluronic acid, amino acids, precursor cells, and other growth factors that help in the growth and development of tissues.
Indications of Amniotic Injections
Conditions that can be treated with amniotic injections include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Muscle and tendon tears
- Ligament injuries
- Osteoarthritis
- Hip and neck pain
- Rotator cuff injury
- Epicondylitis
- Joint injury
- Tennis elbow
How is Amniotic Fluid Obtained?
Amniotic fluid is obtained from healthy donors who have consented and are screened according to FDA guidelines after full-term cesarean delivery.
Procedure of Amniotic Injections
No special preparation is needed for the procedure. Amniotic fluid is injected into the targeted injury site using a syringe and needle. Other than the slight discomfort upon needle insertion into the skin, you will feel no pain. The fluid contains growth factors and proteins that trigger tissue repair and helps in the healing of wounds. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties that relieve pain and inflammation. This whole procedure may take up to thirty minutes.
What to expect after the Amniotic Injection?
You will usually be allowed to return to routine activities almost immediately after the procedure. Any specific restrictions will be given by your doctor depending on your injury. You can expect a reduction in pain and inflammation a few hours after the procedure. The amount of healing and tissue rejuvenation may vary based on the severity of the condition and can take up to 12 weeks.
Risks and Complications of Amniotic Injections
Amniotic injections are a very safe and effective treatment for most patients with hardly any side effects other than minimal pain and swelling at the injection site, which is temporary.
Benefits of Amniotic Injections
Benefits of amniotic injections include:
- Growth factors trigger tissue regeneration for lasting benefits
- No rejection reaction
- 100% natural product
- Steroid free
