Joint pain or a nagging sports injury? Non-surgical options in Winter Garden
Joint and tendon pain can come from an injury, overuse, or arthritis, and the right next step depends on which. We evaluate first and tell you plainly whether an injection, physical therapy, or a specialist fits best. We treat shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, knees, ankles, and feet.
What might be going on
Arthritis is the most common cause of joint pain, but injuries and overuse matter too. Common causes include:
- Osteoarthritis, the gradual wearing of joint cartilage
- Tendon overuse, such as tennis elbow
- Sprains, strains, and old injuries that never fully healed
- Extra body weight, which adds load to the knees
How we evaluate it
Dr. Chander takes a history, examines the joint, and reviews any X-rays or MRI, along with medications such as blood thinners. Imaging helps decide whether an injection is reasonable or you need an orthopedist first. We don't inject hips or the spine, which need image guidance, and we refer those patients to a specialist.
Treatments we offer
The evidence is mixed, and experts disagree. In 2026 the American College of Rheumatology strongly recommended against PRP and stem cell injections for knee and hip osteoarthritis. A statement from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation says PRP may be considered for mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis that stays symptomatic after conservative care. We review evidence, cost, and alternatives with you first.
- PRP Injections — platelet-rich plasma from your own blood, injected into a joint or tendon
- Wharton's Jelly Injections — donor-derived umbilical cord tissue, often called stem cell injections; not FDA-approved for orthopedic use, and the evidence is still developing
- Medical weight management — that same guideline strongly recommends weight loss for knee arthritis with overweight or obesity; we offer nutrition support and, when appropriate, medication
When to see your doctor first
Go to urgent care or the ER if a joint looks out of shape, swells suddenly, or can't be used after an injury. Call 911 for chest pain or trouble breathing.
See your doctor promptly for a red, warm, swollen, tender joint, especially with fever, because joint infection needs urgent treatment. We also hold off on injections if there's infection near the site.
Not sure what's behind your pain? Book a Complimentary Consultation. Dr. Chander will examine the joint and tell you plainly whether an injection, a specialist, or another path fits best.
Treatments we offer for this concern
Each has its own guide: how it works, who it is for, and what the evidence shows.
Common questions
Is PRP proven to work?
Evidence is mixed. Some studies show benefit for tendon problems and mild to moderate knee arthritis, but guidelines differ and results vary. We tell you honestly whether you're a good candidate.
Will insurance cover it?
Generally no. Few plans cover regenerative injections, so we review costs with you before you decide.
Do you treat hips or the spine?
No. Those require image-guided injection, so we refer you to the right specialist.
Let's figure out what's behind it.
Book a complimentary consultation — we'll review your symptoms and history and map out the right next step, even if that step is a referral.
THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.