Finding Relief from Chronic Shoulder Pain: How PRP and Stem Cell Therapy Are Changing the Game

By Dr. Joseph Mejia, DO, FAAPMR, RMSK
Medical Director, Performance Ortho

Shoulder pain can make even the simplest tasks—like reaching for a coffee mug or getting dressed—feel like a challenge. It’s one of the most common orthopedic complaints, affecting people of all ages. Whether it comes on suddenly or builds over time, shoulder pain often brings with it:

• Pain or weakness when lifting or lowering the arm
• Clicking, popping, or grinding during movement
• Discomfort at rest or while sleeping
• Pain that radiates to the neck or elbow

But what’s really causing your shoulder pain—and what can you do about it?

The Most Common Culprit: The Rotator Cuff

The shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint—and also one of the most vulnerable. According to Dr. Joseph Mejia of Performance Ortho, most shoulder issues stem from damage or inflammation of the rotator cuff—a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the joint.

“After 15 years of clinical experience, I can confidently say the vast majority of shoulder pain is related to rotator cuff injuries,” says Dr. Mejia. “Arthritis of the shoulder joint is actually far less common.”

The good news? Conditions like rotator cuff tendonitis or tears often respond well to treatment—when diagnosed and treated early.

Diagnosis: The First—and Most Important—Step

At Performance Ortho, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation by a fellowship-trained physician. Using a combination of X-rays and high-definition diagnostic ultrasound, physicians can assess everything from bone structure to soft tissue injuries—all in real time.

Dr. Mejia, who is triple board-certified in Pain Management, Sports Medicine, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, emphasizes the value of modern diagnostic imaging:

“HD ultrasound has truly revolutionized how we diagnose shoulder injuries. Unlike MRIs, ultrasound allows us to observe the shoulder in motion and pinpoint the exact cause of pain—right there during the appointment.”

This immediate, dynamic evaluation speeds up the treatment process and reduces the guesswork that often delays recovery.

Traditional Treatments: Often Helpful, Sometimes Limited

Historically, shoulder conditions were managed with a combination of physical therapy, cortisone injections, and rest. While many patients improve with these measures, others experience only short-term relief—or none at all.

In these cases, the next recommendation is often surgery. But surgery isn’t always necessary—or successful. Some patients are told to live with the pain. Others simply stop seeking help, resigning themselves to limited mobility and chronic discomfort.

A New Era in Shoulder Pain Relief: Regenerative Medicine

Enter Regenerative Medicine, a breakthrough in non-surgical treatment that’s giving new hope to patients who have failed traditional therapies.

“Regenerative treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and adult stem cell therapy use your body’s own healing agents to repair damaged tissue,” explains Dr. Mejia. “It’s what I call 21st-century orthopedics.”

These therapies are especially effective for rotator cuff injuries, where poor blood supply limits the body’s natural ability to heal. PRP and stem cells jumpstart the healing process, targeting inflammation and promoting regeneration where it’s needed most.

How It Works

The process is simple:

• PRP or stem cells are harvested from the patient—typically through a simple blood draw or minor outpatient procedure.
• The healing cells are precisely injected into the damaged area under ultrasound guidance.
• The body initiates a natural healing cascade, reducing pain and repairing tissue over time.

Dr. Mejia has performed over 1,500 regenerative procedures since 2012 and has seen remarkable results—even in patients who previously failed surgery, cortisone injections, or physical therapy.

Why Performance Ortho?

For over 25 years, Performance Ortho has been a trusted leader in orthopedic and pain care in Somerset County, New Jersey. Our difference lies in our integrated team approach—orthopedic surgeons, pain specialists, sports medicine doctors, physical therapists, and occupational therapists all work together side by side in one facility.

With convenient locations in Watchung, Branchburg, Somerset, Hillsborough, and a state-of-the-art Surgery Center in Bridgewater, we make it easy for you to get the expert care you need.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If shoulder pain is keeping you from living your life, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our team and explore whether PRP or stem cell therapy could be right for you.

Relief is possible—without surgery, without ongoing frustration, and without giving up on the life you love.

Meet Your Expert: Dr. Joseph Mejia

Dr. Mejia is a triple board-certified specialist in Pain Management, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and Sports Medicine. With over 15 years of experience, he has helped thousands of patients restore function, reduce pain, and avoid unnecessary surgery.

He currently serves as Medical Director at Performance Ortho, with offices in Watchung, Branchburg, Somerset, and Hillsborough, NJ.

Next Steps: How to Get Evaluated

At Performance Ortho, we specialize in non-surgical, evidence-based treatments that change lives. If you’re struggling with acute or chronic shoulder pain, regenerative medicine may provide the solutions you are  looking for.

• Visit www.PerformanceOrtho.com
• Call Today and Reclaim Your Mobility-908-756-2424
• The first step toward a pain-free future starts here.