Two professional athletes decided to forgo surgery in favor of stem cell and platelet-rich-plasma injections in the last week.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns had stem cell treatment and platelet-rich plasma injections in his knees, left ankle, left wrist and right finger, ESPN reported May 15. Mr. Towns was dealing with pain in both knees, a cyst in his left ankle, a subluxated left wrist with ligament damage and an aggravated joint on the middle finger of his right hand.
On May 15, Philadelphia Phillies' Bryce Harper had a PRP shot in his right elbow to avoid surgery, The Trentonian reported. Neal ElAttrache, MD, treated Mr. Harper for a small tear in his ulnar collateral ligament.
Mr. Towns is expected to make a full recovery before training camp starts, and Mr. Harper is expected to heal in at least four weeks.