Apollo Hospitals on Tuesday launched the 'Apollo Joint Preservation Program', offering early intervention and personalised treatment for patients with joint pain, arthritis, inflammatory conditions and ligament injuries to help them maintain mobility.

“The Joint Preservation Program at Apollo is built around patient comfort and support, designed to benefit individuals of all ages who may not be aware of the treatment options available for joint pain or degeneration," said Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director - Apollo Hospitals, at the launch. “Through this unique program, our team of specialists will focus on '3 Ts': Tailored advice, Treatment (both medical and surgical), and Therapies (including rehabilitation, nutrition, and alternative therapies).”

Dr Brett Fritsch, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Arthroscopic and Replacement Specialist – Knee, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney and senior doctors from the Orthopaedic Department at Apollo Hospitals, were also present at the event.

The initiative is the latest by Apollo Hospitals,  one of India's largest integrated healthcare platforms with 73 hospitals, over 6,000 pharmacies, and over 200 clinics and diagnostic centres, among others. 

What is the joint preservation program by Apollo Hospitals?

The program, according to a statement issued by the group, will grant patients access to "early diagnosis and customized therapies that can potentially delay or avoid major joint health issues."

“At Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, our Joint Preservation Program offers a patient-centric, holistic approach to joint care, focusing on pain relief and improved function. This includes weight management, lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, and the use of assistive devices for daily activities. We emphasize on non-invasive and minimally invasive pain management techniques and regenerative therapies like PRP and stem cell injections," said Dr Rajesh Malhotra, Senior Consultant - Orthopaedic Surgeon, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

PRP injections are a non-invasive treatment option that uses the patient's own blood's components to help the body heal.  It leverages the body’s inherent healing capacity to diminish inflammation and expedite joint repair. Stem cell treatments aim to rejuvenate cartilage and enhance overall joint functionality.

"For joint misalignment or mechanical issues, we offer joint-preserving surgeries such as arthroscopic debridement, high tibial osteotomy, and partial knee replacements to extend the lifespan of the natural joint. By prioritizing early, minimally invasive interventions, we help patients maintain joint function and enjoy an active, pain-free lifestyle, setting a new standard in orthopedic care," Dr Malhotra added. 

Dr Harvind Tandon, Senior Consultant, Clinical Advisor, Adult Joint Reconstruction Surgeon, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals said that the program will allow patients to seek help "without fear of unnecessary procedures." 

"A joint replacement is to be done only if it is absolutely necessary (due to advanced condition)," he said. 

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