A2M Injections: A treatment for Shoulder Arthritis

What is A2M?

A2M stands for Alpha 2 Macroglobulin, a naturally occurring protein found in blood plasma. A2M inhibits cartilage degradation by neutralizing harmful enzymes within a degenerative joint. It promotes new tissue growth which supports the overall restoration of the affected shoulder joint. A2M is a new biologic treatment option for swollen arthritic joints which is administered through injection therapy.  To find out if A2M therapy is a reliable option for your shoulder ask the orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho.  Our shoulder specialists will help counsel patients in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and the surrounding communities of the Treasure Valley regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with biological treatments such as A2M.

How does A2M work?

There are three specific protein classes in the body that degrade cartilage overtime: 1) Cytokines, 2) Matrix Metallaproteinases, and 3) ADAMTS (a disintergrin and metallaproteinase with thrombospondin motifs).  A2M works by capturing and inactivating these three protein classes.  Once these proteins are trapped and deactivated, the body can quickly eliminate them. A2M protects cartilage in the shoulder from catabolic breakdown and inflammation by trapping and eliminating protein enzymes. Some believe A2M is the key to stopping osteoarthritis at the molecular level.

Are you experiencing shoulder pain?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with the Shoulder Clinic of Idaho:

You can call our office and schedule an appointment with one our shoulder specialists.

You can schedule an office consultation with a member of our shoulder team.

How is A2M obtained?

The A2M protein is made in the liver. Patients who are interested in trying A2M can undergo simple testing to determine if they are a candidate for A2M. A test is done to discover if the degenerative process is ongoing within the joint that would be responsive to an A2M injection. Blood is then drawn from the patient and processed.  A2M can then be injected into the joint.

What can A2M do for my shoulder pain?

Shoulder arthritis, whether caused by wear and tear or related to a history of shoulder trauma, typically causes symptoms of shoulder pain and loss of motion.  A2M is a non-surgical method that might ease pain and neutralize joint deterioration caused by harmful enzymes. When administered properly, A2M is thought to contribute to the following:

  • Stop the breakdown of cartilage and prevent further cartilage loss
  • Reduce pain caused by osteoarthritis
  • Slow the destruction of osteoarthritis
  • Improve joint function
  • Support shoulder joint restoration and promote good tissue growth

The orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho will consult with patients requesting A2M therapy, or other biologic injections, to thoroughly explain the advantages and disadvantages of this type of treatment and will discuss whether or not they are a candidate for this type of injection therapy. It is important when you research A2M, or any biologic therapy, to be certain your doctor is using the latest techniques and technology. Potency of these types of treatments can vary greatly and should be discussed with our specialists.

To learn more about A2M injection therapy for osteoarthritis and shoulder pain, or the cost of A2M injections for the shoulder, please contact the orthopedic specialists at The Shoulder Clinic of Idaho, serving patients in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and the surrounding communities of the Treasure Valley.