What these treatments are
Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, concentrates the platelets from a small sample of your own blood and places them into the target tissue. Prolotherapy uses a dextrose-based solution to prompt a local healing response in selected ligaments and tendons. Bone marrow concentrate, sometimes called BMAC, draws on cells from your own bone marrow for select joint problems. Each option has a different evidence base, and none is right for everyone.
Where they may fit
We most often discuss these options for tendon problems such as tennis elbow, golfer's elbow and Achilles or patellar tendon pain, for knee osteoarthritis, and for select joint and ligament injuries that have not responded to a well-built rehabilitation plan. When a condition is not a good fit for regenerative care, we say so plainly and point you toward what is more likely to help.
What a visit looks like
Treatment begins with a physician evaluation and a review of your imaging and prior care. On the day of a procedure, the area is confirmed with diagnostic ultrasound, a small blood or marrow sample is prepared, and the injection is placed under continuous ultrasound guidance in our office. Most visits take under an hour, and a graded return to activity follows over the coming weeks.
An honest word on evidence
Results vary from person to person, and no outcome is promised. PRP has supportive evidence for some tendon problems and knee osteoarthritis, and weaker or mixed evidence elsewhere. Bone marrow concentrate is not FDA approved for arthritis, and we discuss the regulatory and evidence landscape openly before any cell-based option is considered. Rehabilitation and movement are part of every plan, and surgery remains a last resort, pursued only when it is truly needed.
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This page is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Medical Disclaimer