Gluteal tendinopathy, a common cause of lateral hip pain, can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Whether it’s making it hard to walk, climb stairs, or even just sleep, the struggle is real. Interestingly, this condition is more common in women than men, with a ratio of 9:1. Most patients first try to go after traditional treatments like physical therapy and corticosteroid injections often provide limited or short-term relief. However, a recent study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine offers hope with a promising more lasting alternative: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections.
What is PRP?
Here at Regenexx at New Regeneration Orthopedics of Florida, we do PRP procedures which utilize a concentrated solution of platelets derived from the patient’s own blood. Those platelets contain growth factors that play a crucial role in tissue healing and regeneration. We love being able to provide a procedure that is not only effective but also personalized, using your body’s own healing factors to help you get better.
PRP vs. Corticosteroids: The Study
The randomized controlled trial involved 80 participants with chronic gluteal tendinopathy. They were divided into two groups, with one receiving a PRP injection and the other a corticosteroid injection. Pain and function were assessed using the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) at various intervals up to 12 weeks.
The Findings
While both groups experienced initial improvement, the PRP group demonstrated significantly greater pain reduction and functional improvement at the 12-week mark. Additionally, a higher proportion of PRP-treated participants achieved clinically meaningful outcomes.
Why PRP Shows Promise
The study’s results suggest that PRP injections could offer several advantages over corticosteroids for gluteal tendinopathy:
- Longer-lasting relief: PRP’s regenerative properties may contribute to sustained improvement compared to the temporary effects of corticosteroids.
- Potential for healing: PRP’s growth factors could promote tendon healing, addressing the underlying cause of pain.
- Minimally invasive: PRP injections are a relatively simple outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.
Is PRP Right for You?
If you’re dealing with the persistent pain of chronic gluteal tendinopathy, a PRP procedure could be a game-changer for you. It’s worth exploring as a potential solution that goes beyond traditional treatments. To find out if PRP is the right fit for your situation, consult with one of our board certified physicians at Regenexx at NROFL.
Conclusion
While further research is needed to confirm the long-term benefits of PRP, this study provides evidence for its use in treating gluteal tendinopathy. PRP injections offer another solution for individuals seeking lasting relief and improved function. We’re excited to offer this procedure and look forward to helping more people find the relief they’ve been searching for.
