Platelet-Rich Plasma for Lower Back Pain

Medical image of a person with low back pain.
Published On: September 17th, 2024
4.8 min read

If you’re struggling with chronic lower back pain and have not found relief with other treatments – there is hope at Wilderman Medical Clinic. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an innovative therapy that can provide long-lasting relief by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.

At Wilderman Medical Clinic, we understand that chronic lower back pain can significantly impact your quality of life, especially if you’ve tried other treatments like physical therapy or medications with little success.

If you’re ready for a more innovative approach to managing your pain, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for lower back pain might be the solution you’ve been searching for. This cutting-edge treatment is helping people find lasting pain relief when other methods have fallen short.

How Does PRP Work to Treat Lower Back Pain?

PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s own blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this platelet-rich plasma back into the affected area.

These platelets contain growth factors that can accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation, making them a promising option for treating chronic pain.

For patients with chronic lower back pain, PRP injections are typically administered into areas of damage or degeneration within the spine, such as the discs, ligaments, or facet joints. PRP therapy may be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic lower back pain caused by conditions such as:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Disc herniation/ruptured disc
  • Facet joint arthritis
  • Atrophy of the paravertebral muscles
  • Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
  • Muscle or ligament injuries

It’s important to understand that PRP is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While some patients experience significant pain reduction and improved function, others may see more modest results. However, for patients who have tried other treatments without achieving lasting relief, PRP could be a valuable alternative.

If you’re ready to explore your options for chronic pain management, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how PRP for lower back pain could work for you.

Is There Scientific Evidence To Support PRP as a Treatment for Lower Back Pain?

Studies into the clinical effectiveness of PRP for lower back pain are ongoing, but early research is promising. A growing body of evidence suggests that PRP is a safe and effective treatment for various types of musculoskeletal pain, including chronic lower back pain.

In just one example, a 2023 meta-analysis looked at 40 research studies comparing injection of platelet-rich plasma to other treatments for low back pain, including 13 randomized-controlled trials (the gold standard for medical research). Positive results were found in almost all of the studies, including 11 of the 13 randomized controlled trials.

Dozens of other research studies show that PRP is an effective treatment for low back pain with a low risk of unwanted side effects. Many patients report significant pain reduction and improved physical function even years after the injection. While more large-scale studies are still needed to strengthen the current evidence, the early research has been very positive.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

PRP therapy at our clinic is a straightforward procedure that typically takes an hour or less. A small sample of your blood is drawn, similar to a routine blood test. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and concentrate them. The concentrated platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the area of your back that needs healing.

After your treatment, you will be able to go home the same day. You may experience some mild soreness at the injection site, but this usually goes away within a few days. Many patients start noticing acute pain relief and improved mobility within a few weeks, though it can take several months to see the full benefits.

Is PRP Safe?

PRP therapy is considered very safe because it uses your own blood, so there is little risk of an allergic reaction or infection. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks, such as temporary pain or swelling at the injection site.

Our medical team at Wilderman Medical Clinic will discuss any potential risks with you before treatment and ensure you feel comfortable and informed.

Will my PRP treatments be Covered by OHIP?

PRP Therapy may not be covered by OHIP or private insurance plans. However, WSIB, veteran affairs, and car insurance may provide coverage in certain cases. Our clinic staff will discuss payment options with you.

Why Choose Wilderman Medical Clinic?

At Wilderman Medical Clinic, we take pride in offering state-of-the-art medical treatment that focuses on your long-term health and well-being. Our clinic is committed to providing high-quality care using the latest technology and treatments. PRP therapy is just one of the advanced options we offer to help you find relief from chronic pain.

Our team of specialists is here to guide you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to your post-treatment care. We’re dedicated to helping you live a pain-free life and will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Contact our clinic today to schedule a personalized consultation with our experienced healthcare professionals. Let us help you take the first step towards a pain-free future.

Works Cited

Machado, E. S., Soares, F. P., Vianna de Abreu, E., de Souza, T. A. D. C., Meves, R., Grohs, H., Ambach, M. A., Navani, A., de Castro, R. B., Pozza, D. H., & Caldas, J. M. P. (2023). Systematic Review of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Low Back Pain. Biomedicines, 11(9), 2404. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11092404

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