Autologous Blood Therapy
Treatments
Autologous blood therapy is an established, conservative procedure in orthopedics that is used to treat pain and functional limitations of the musculoskeletal system. It uses the body’s own healing mechanisms and is used in particular for joint complaints, tendon irritation, and degenerative changes.
In everyday orthopedic practice, autologous blood therapy has proven its value as an additional treatment option when conventional measures do not provide sufficient relief or when surgery is to be avoided or postponed. It is also used to support healing processes and provide lasting relief of symptoms.
Are you interested in autologous blood therapy / ACP in Innsbruck? Dr. Gregor Pittl will advise you on the procedure and uses autologous blood therapy as an individually tailored component of orthopedic treatment.
Dr. Gregor Pittl
Specialist in Orthopedics and Traumatology in Innsbruck
Common indications for autologous blood therapy
In orthopedics, autologous blood therapy is used for a range of conditions; however, ACP therapy is used exclusively after an orthopedic assessment and an individual indication has been established.
Possible areas of application include:
- Osteoarthritis and cartilage damage (mild to moderate osteoarthritis)
- Tendon irritation and chronic inflammation (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendon)
- Joint complaints, especially in the knee, shoulder, hip, or elbow
- Cartilage wear
- Overuse complaints in physically active people and acute sports injuries
- Supportive treatment after sports injuries
When is autologous blood therapy useful, and how long does the effect last?
Autologous blood therapy is particularly useful when symptoms have persisted for a longer period, recur repeatedly, or respond insufficiently to conventional conservative measures, or when the body is to be supported in tissue healing without resorting to cortisone or strong painkillers.
It is well suited for early to mid-stage degenerative changes, for example to treat osteoarthritis before invasive measures become necessary.
The effect of autologous blood therapy usually begins gradually. Several sessions at intervals of one to two weeks are often recommended. Depending on findings, activity level, and accompanying therapy, the symptom relief achieved can last for several months. Combining it with physiotherapy or adjusting load significantly improves the long-term effect.
Procedure for autologous blood therapy
The procedure is straightforward and usually takes only about 20 minutes. ACP therapy is generally well tolerated. After treatment, a slight feeling of pressure or tightness may occur temporarily; serious side effects are rare.
The autologous blood therapy procedure is as follows:
- Orthopedic examination & indication
- Blood draw: A small amount of blood, approx. 10–15 ml, is taken from a vein in the arm
- Processing the blood into ACP: The blood is spun in a special centrifuge. This separates the plasma with the highly concentrated platelets (thrombocytes) from the remaining components.
- Targeted injection of the processed plasma into the affected area
- Brief rest and recommendations for the following days
Make an appointment at our practice.
Dr. Gregor Pittl
ACP therapy offers a valuable, autologous treatment option for many orthopedic conditions and can help alleviate pain and improve the function of joints and tendons.
Contact us if you are interested in ACP in Innsbruck and would like a consultation. We are also happy to provide treatment during private consultation hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is autologous blood therapy painful?
The injection is usually well tolerated and only takes a few minutes.
How many sessions are necessary?
Often 2–3 treatments are recommended, depending on the symptoms and response.
What are the benefits of autologous blood therapy?
Autologous blood therapy utilizes the body’s own active substances and is generally well-tolerated. It can reduce inflammatory reactions, alleviate pain, boost the body’s self-healing, and support the regeneration of joint and tendon tissue.
Is the treatment suitable for athletes?
Yes, ACP therapy is often used for physically active patients, especially for tendon and overuse complaints.
Are there side effects to autologous blood therapy?
Autologous blood therapy is generally well tolerated. Slight pain, a feeling of pressure, or minor swelling at the injection site may occur briefly. Serious side effects are rare, as only the body’s own material is used.
