PRP and prolotherapy are both injection-based approaches used in regenerative care, but they use different materials and are selected for different clinical reasons.
The short version
PRP uses platelet-rich plasma prepared from a sample of your own blood. Prolotherapy typically uses a dextrose-based solution. Both are intended to stimulate or support a localized healing response rather than simply numb an area.
How PRP works
A small blood sample is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets and associated growth factors. The prepared plasma is then injected into a targeted area under clinical guidance.
- Uses material prepared from your own blood
- Often considered for tendon, ligament, joint, or soft-tissue concerns
- May involve one treatment or a short series
- Temporary post-injection soreness is possible
How prolotherapy works
Prolotherapy places a solution, commonly dextrose, into areas of suspected ligament, tendon, or joint instability. The intent is to create a controlled local response that supports connective-tissue repair.
- Commonly uses a dextrose solution
- Often considered when instability or laxity may contribute to pain
- Frequently delivered as a planned series
- Recovery guidance matters between visits
Choosing the right option
The choice is not based on which treatment is newer or more expensive. It depends on diagnosis, tissue involved, severity, prior care, imaging when relevant, overall health, and your goals.
Not every painful joint is an injection problem. A careful evaluation may point instead to rehabilitation, imaging, medication, specialist referral, or another approach.