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If you’re dealing with chronic back pain from a herniated disc, you’re not alone.
Herniated discs are one of the most common causes of back and neck pain, often leading to sciatica, nerve pain, and limited mobility.
Many people try pain medications or even steroid injections, but these treatments only offer temporary relief.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a non-surgical herniated disc treatment that helps the body heal naturally.
Instead of masking pain, PRP injections work at the source—stimulating tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we specialize in PRP therapy to help patients recover without surgery.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc happens when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its tough outer layer.
This can put pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness.
Signs You May Have a Herniated Disc
- Lower back pain or neck pain
- Sciatica (pain shooting down the leg)
- Tingling or numbness in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty sitting, standing, or walking for long periods
Why Traditional Treatments May Not Be Enough
Many people try physical therapy, pain relievers, or steroid injections for herniated discs.
While these treatments may help with short-term pain relief, they don’t repair the damaged disc.
Surgery is an option, but it comes with risks and a long recovery time.
This is why many patients turn to PRP therapy as a natural, minimally invasive way to heal.
How PRP Therapy Works for Herniated Discs
PRP therapy uses your own blood’s natural healing properties to repair damaged tissue.
A small sample of blood is drawn, then processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors.
These powerful healing agents are injected into the damaged disc or surrounding areas to promote repair.
PRP can:
- Reduce inflammation around compressed nerves
- Stimulate disc healing and tissue repair
- Improve mobility and decrease pain over time
Unlike steroid injections, which only reduce inflammation temporarily, PRP works to heal the damaged tissue for long-term relief.
What Science Says About PRP for Herniated Discs
Several studies have shown that PRP injections can reduce pain and improve function for patients with lumbar disc herniation and discogenic back pain.
The key difference between PRP and traditional treatments is that PRP actually supports tissue regeneration rather than just dulling pain.
Types of PRP Injections for Herniated Disc Treatment
At Orthobiologics Associates, we use targeted PRP injection techniques to maximize healing.
Depending on your condition, you may benefit from one or a combination of the following:
Epidural PRP Injections
- PRP is injected near the spinal nerves to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Best for patients with sciatica or nerve pain from a herniated disc.
Intradiscal PRP Injections
- PRP is injected directly into the herniated disc to promote repair.
- Ideal for chronic back pain caused by disc degeneration or bulging discs.
Facet Joint & Sacroiliac PRP Injections
- If spinal instability or osteoarthritis is contributing to your pain, PRP can be used to strengthen these joints.
What to Expect from PRP Therapy for a Herniated Disc
PRP therapy is a great option for those who:
- Have a mild to moderate herniated disc
- Want to avoid surgery
- Are looking for a long-term solution rather than temporary relief
The PRP Treatment Process
- Blood Draw – A small sample of blood is taken.
- PRP Preparation – The blood is processed to extract healing platelets and growth factors.
- Injection – Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance, the PRP is injected into the targeted area.
- Healing & Recovery – Over the next few weeks, PRP stimulates tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
How Long Until You See Results?
Most patients start feeling improvement within 4-6 weeks, with continued healing over the next 3-6 months.
Many experience long-term pain relief and improved mobility.
Why PRP is a Better Alternative to Surgery & Steroids
| Treatment | How It Works | Limitations |
| Steroid Injections | Reduces inflammation temporarily | No healing effects, wears off over time |
| Surgery | Removes part of the damaged disc | Invasive, long recovery, possible complications |
| PRP Therapy | Stimulates natural healing and disc repair | Non-invasive, long-term benefits |
How Orthobiologics Associates Can Help with PRP For Herniated Disc
At Orthobiologics Associates, we take a personalized approach to PRP therapy.
We use highly concentrated PRP formulations and advanced imaging technology to ensure precise, effective treatment.
What sets us apart
- Expert team specializing in PRP therapy for spinal conditions
- Ultrasound-guided and fluoroscopy-guided injections for pinpoint accuracy
- Comprehensive treatment plans designed for long-term relief
If you’re looking for a proven, non-surgical way to heal your herniated disc, our team is here to help.
Conclusion: PRP For Herniated Disc
If you’re tired of living with chronic back pain and want a safe, non-surgical solution, PRP therapy could be the answer.
At Orthobiologics Associates, we specialize in regenerative treatments to help patients heal naturally and regain their quality of life.
Schedule your consultation today to see if PRP is right for you.
FAQs: PRP For Herniated Disc
What is PRGF vs PRP?
PRGF (Plasma Rich in Growth Factors) and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) are both regenerative treatments derived from a patient’s own blood. PRGF is a specialized form of PRP that undergoes additional processing to isolate specific growth factors, making it more targeted for tissue repair. PRP, on the other hand, contains a broader mix of platelets and healing proteins. Both treatments promote healing, but PRGF is often used for soft tissue regeneration, while PRP is widely applied for musculoskeletal conditions like herniated discs.
Is walking good for a herniated disc?
Yes, walking can be beneficial for a herniated disc when done correctly. Gentle walking promotes circulation, reduces stiffness, and helps maintain spinal mobility. However, it’s important to avoid high-impact activities, prolonged sitting, or sudden twisting movements, which can worsen symptoms. Listen to your body and gradually increase movement based on your comfort level.
What are the signs a herniated disc is healing?
Signs of healing include gradual pain reduction, improved mobility, and a decrease in nerve-related symptoms such as tingling or numbness. If sciatica was present, the pain may move upward toward the lower back, which is a sign of improvement. As the inflammation subsides and tissue repair occurs, muscle strength and flexibility often return to normal.
What is a bulging vs a herniated disc?
A bulging disc occurs when the outer layer of the spinal disc protrudes outward but remains intact. This can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause discomfort. A herniated disc, on the other hand, happens when the inner gel-like material leaks through a tear in the disc’s outer layer. Herniated discs are more likely to cause nerve compression, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness.
Does PRP help a herniated disc?
Yes, PRP therapy can help a herniated disc by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue healing, and improving spinal stability. Unlike pain medications or steroid injections that provide temporary relief, PRP works at the source by stimulating the body’s natural repair process. Many patients experience long-term pain relief and improved mobility after PRP treatment.
What is the downside of PRP?
While PRP is a natural and minimally invasive treatment, it does have some limitations. Results can vary from person to person, and multiple treatments may be needed for optimal healing. Some patients may experience temporary soreness at the injection site, and PRP therapy may not be as effective for individuals with severe disc degeneration. Additionally, PRP is often not covered by insurance, making it an out-of-pocket expense.
What worsens a herniated disc?
Several factors can worsen a herniated disc, including prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, poor posture, and sudden twisting movements. High-impact activities like running or jumping can put extra strain on the spine, increasing pain and inflammation. Lack of movement can also slow down healing, so finding the right balance of rest and gentle activity is key to recovery.
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