MI Express Urgent & Primary Care
44237 Michigan Ave Suite B, Canton, MI 48188
Monday - Friday : 9 AM - 7 PM
Saturday - Sunday : 10 AM - 6 PM
MI Express Urgent & Primary Care
80 S Zeeb Rd Unit 101 B, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Monday - Friday : 9 AM - 7 PM
Saturday - Sunday : 10 AM - 6 PM
Not every knee problem calls for the same treatment, which is why this page walks through options rather than pushing one. Tendon-related pain, like patellar tendonitis from overuse, tends to respond best to shockwave therapy. Early-to-moderate osteoarthritis and cartilage-related pain is where PRP tends to be strongest, since it's designed to support the joint's own healing response. Advanced arthritis flares are usually where a steroid injection helps most, providing fast relief while a longer-term plan takes shape.
This is general guidance, not a diagnosis. Dr. Azimi confirms the right fit for your knee specifically during your evaluation, which is why the visit matters more than guessing from a symptom list.
Shockwave Therapy: a non-invasive option for tendon-related knee pain, such as patellar tendonitis or chronic overuse injuries. No incisions, a short series of in-office sessions, and no downtime keep you moving while you heal.
Learn more about shockwave therapy.
Steroid joint injection: a fast option when you need real relief now, especially useful for more advanced arthritis flares.
Learn more about steroid joint injections.
PRP: well suited to early-to-moderate osteoarthritis and cartilage-related pain, using your own blood's healing platelets to support the joint.
Learn more about PRP therapy.Which of these fits best depends on imaging, exam findings, and how long you have had symptoms, which is why this is discussed in person rather than decided from a symptom list alone.
Dr. Umayr Azimi, MD, is dual board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, and his approach starts with trying non-surgical options first rather than jumping straight to a referral or a surgical consult. If your knee pain does need a specialist beyond what these treatments can address, you'll hear that directly and early, not after months of trial and error. Both the Canton and Ann Arbor locations offer walk-in and same-week visits, so you don't have to wait weeks just to get a first opinion.
You can also read more about our approach to arthritis-related knee pain on the Osteoarthritis Management page.
Book My AssessmentShockwave can help with tendon-related knee pain, but PRP or injections are often a better fit for osteoarthritis itself. Dr. Azimi will confirm which applies to you.
They work differently. PRP supports longer-term healing, while a cortisone shot provides faster short-term relief. Many patients benefit from a combination over time.
Timelines vary by treatment and condition. Some patients notice improvement within days, while regenerative treatments like PRP may take several weeks to show full benefit.
Not always. Dr. Azimi will determine whether imaging is needed based on your symptoms and exam, rather than requiring it for every knee pain visit.
Coverage depends on your plan and the specific treatment recommended. Our team can help verify your benefits before you commit to a plan.
