Finding Relief: Two Simple Treatment Options for Faster Healing

Dr. Khajaei tells us, “Percutaneous tenotomy and ultrasound-guided injections are leading-edge, minimally invasive orthopedic treatments most commonly used to treat chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions that haven’t improved with conservative care such as rest, physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications.” Dr. Khajaei notes that both of these procedures target areas of tendon degeneration or inflammation and help to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

Common conditions treated with percutaneous tenotomy include:

• Achilles chronic tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Calcific tendinitis
• Chronic hip pain due to gluteus medius tendinitis
• Hamstring or IT band injuries
• Patellar and quadriceps chronic tendinitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Repetitive tendon strain injuries
• Rotator cuff calcific or chronic tendinitis
• Tendinosis
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow

Ultrasound-guided injections can be used to treat various orthopedic conditions, including:

• Bursitis
• Joint arthritis (knee, hip and shoulder)
• Nerve entrapments

“These image-guided treatments allow for highly targeted, precise delivery of medication or regenerative agents to the affected area and help reduce pain, promote tissue healing and improve mobility,” Dr. Khajaei says.

“Percutaneous tenotomy is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedure designed to treat chronic tendon pain by promoting natural healing,” states Dr. Khajaei. The procedure uses ultrasound imaging to guide a specialized needle directly to the source of pain, where it gently removes unhealthy, degenerated tendon tissue, while leaving healthy tissue intact, Dr. Khajaei explains.

This procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. One of the key benefits of this procedure is that it requires a small incision with no stitches afterward.

“By precisely targeting and removing the damaged tissue, the tendon can heal properly, regenerate stronger, healthier fibers and restore normal function over time,” assures Dr. Khajaei.

Dr. Khajaei tells us that recovery from percutaneous tenotomy is generally quick and straightforward. “Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days and can begin light activity shortly after the procedure. A gradual return to full activity is expected between four and six weeks, depending on the tendon treated and the individual’s rehabilitation plan,” explains Dr. Khajaei.

Benefits of this procedure include:

• A minimally invasive approach
• Performed under local anesthesia
• Promotion of true healing rather than temporary symptom relief
• Shorter recovery and minimal downtime

Dr. Khajaei says that research and clinical experience show high success rates, with most patients reporting significant pain reduction, improved mobility and long-term relief.

“Ultrasound-guided injections use real-time imaging to precisely deliver medication or regenerative agents into the affected tissue, such as a tendon, joint or bursa,” explains Dr. Khajaei. This technique allows for exact needle placement and ensures the treatment reaches the intended area.

Depending on the condition, Dr. Khajaei may use:

• Corticosteroids for inflammation and pain relief
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate tissue healing using the body’s own growth factors
• Prolotherapy or other biologic agents to promote tissue regeneration
• Viscosupplementation to restore lubrication in arthritic joints

“Commonly treated areas include the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, wrist, foot and ankle,” says Dr. Khajaei.

“Studies show that ultrasound-guided injections are over 90% more accurate in targeting the affected area compared to standard anatomical injections, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction,” says Dr. Khajaei. Ultrasound guidance provides unmatched accuracy compared to traditional “blind” injections. “By visualizing the needle and target tissue in real time, I can ensure precise placement of medication, which simply isn’t possible without imaging.”

Benefits of ultrasound-guided injections include:

• Faster pain relief and better overall results
• Improved accuracy and safety through precise targeting
• Individualized treatment plans tailored to your condition
• Quick procedure performed in the office with minimal recovery time

“Through real-time ultrasound imaging, I can ensure that patients receive the most effective, targeted care possible, while promoting quicker recovery and lasting pain relief,” assures Dr. Khajaei.

“In my practice, I treat many different patients, from competitive athletes to everyday people who want to move without pain. Tendon and joint problems can affect anyone, regardless of age or activity level. My goal is to help each patient restore function, improve performance and return to an active, healthy lifestyle,” says Dr. Khajaei.

Dr. Khajaei states that both procedures are considered very safe when performed by an experienced sports medicine physician. “Potential side effects for both procedures are typically mild and may include temporary soreness, bruising or swelling at the treatment site.”

Good candidates for these procedures include

• Individuals with chronic tendon or joint pain unresponsive to conservative care
• Patients motivated to follow a guided rehabilitation plan for optimal results
• Those seeking to avoid surgery or a lengthy recovery

Talk to your doctor to find out if these procedures are right for you.