From Shoulder Pain to Returning to Competition: A Case Study of PRP Therapy for a 40s Male Bodybuilder

Today, we would like to introduce the treatment progress of a patient who underwent PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy at our clinic.

Case Study: PRP Therapy for Shoulder Periarthritis Caused by High-Intensity Training

Patient Information: Male in his 40s, 18 years of experience in competitive bodybuilding.
Symptoms: Limited range of motion in the right shoulder and pain in daily life due to years of accumulated high-load training.
Treatment Progress: In this case, since conventional conservative therapy did not provide sufficient improvement, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy was selected after consultation with the patient.

At our clinic, we propose PRP therapy to athletes who wish to avoid surgery and aim for an early return to competition, provided that thorough informed consent is obtained beforehand.

The Process of Tissue Repair via PRP Therapy

PRP therapy is a treatment that promotes tissue repair by highly concentrating platelets extracted from the patient's own blood and injecting them into the affected area. Because the patient’s own blood is used, the risk is low, and the physical burden is significantly reduced compared to surgery. It is a treatment option considered for a wide range of cases, including osteoarthritis and sports-related joint issues.

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Following the treatment, the patient underwent a planned rehabilitation program. As a result, improvements in the shoulder's range of motion and pain levels were observed, and the patient has recovered to the point where they could resume competition-level training.

To Those Considering This Treatment

PRP therapy is a powerful treatment option for those who wish to avoid surgery or for those who have not seen sufficient improvement with conventional conservative therapies.

Key Benefits:

  • Tissue Repair Effect: Rather than just suppressing pain, this treatment approaches the root cause of the pain by promoting actual tissue repair (depending on the site).
  • Low Risk of Side Effects: Since your own blood is used, the risk of immune rejection or serious allergic reactions is extremely low.
  • Completed via Injection Only: The treatment supports tissue repair through a simple injection. No hospitalization is required, and the procedure can be done on an outpatient basis.

Important Information Regarding Self-Pay (Non-Insured) Treatment

  • Standard Cost: PRP Therapy (1 session) 132,000 Yen (including tax) *Additional fees for initial consultation and testing may apply.
  • Risks and Side Effects: There are risks of pain at the injection site, swelling, internal bleeding, and infection. While serious side effects are rare because autologous blood is used, results vary by individual, and the same outcome is not guaranteed for all patients.

If you are suffering from shoulder pain, an appropriate diagnosis is the first step. Please feel free to consult with our clinic.

From the Doctor

Our goal is not simply to remove pain, but to support our patients in returning to the lifestyle and competitions they aim for. We will continue to carefully propose treatments tailored to each individual who suffers from similar concerns.

Director of NAG Orthopedics: Yoshimasa Nagumo

南雲 吉祥

Orthopedic Specialist & Sports Doctor

Dr. Nagumo initially built his career as a surgical oncologist specializing in orthopedic cancer treatment. Subsequently, he moved to the United States to engage in advanced research in the field of regenerative medicine.

It was during his time in the U.S. that a personal injury led him to realize the critical importance of sports medicine. Upon returning to Japan, he transitioned his focus to become a sports orthopedic surgeon.

Currently, he leads the "Athlete Support Program," which provides comprehensive medical support to athletes using a combination of blood analysis and cutting-edge regenerative medicine technologies.

[Click here for the program introduction page:https://nagseikei.jp/en/dr/]