Sciatica — pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg — is often the result of disc herniation, lumbar stenosis, or inflammation compressing the sciatic nerve. While many cases improve with time and conservative care, chronic or severe sciatica can significantly limit mobility and quality of life. For patients who have not found lasting relief, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may offer a regenerative alternative.
At our Miami clinic, Dr. William Bonner — part of the Regenexx network — performs image-guided PRP injections for low back pain and sciatica, targeting the specific structures contributing to each patient’s symptoms with precision and care.
PRP can be used to target the spinal structures that are compressing or irritating the sciatic nerve. These include:
Not all sciatica has the same cause — which is why accurate diagnosis through imaging and examination is essential before recommending PRP.
PRP is not injected directly into the sciatic nerve itself. Instead, it targets the tissue that is causing the symptoms which is usually a pinched nerve in the lumbar spine. By delivering concentrated growth factors to herniated discs, inflamed joints, or damaged ligaments, PRP works to:
Image guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) is used for every injection to ensure precise delivery to the correct anatomical target.
Cortisone (corticosteroid) injections have been used for decades to reduce joint inflammation and pain. While they can provide effective short-term relief, research has shown that repeated cortisone injections may actually accelerate cartilage breakdown over time. PRP takes a fundamentally different approach:
| Cortisone Injection | PRP Therapy | |
| Mechanism | Suppresses inflammation | Promotes healing and tissue repair |
| Source | Synthetic steroid | Your own blood platelets |
| Duration of Relief | Weeks to a few months | Months to over a year in many cases |
| Effect on Tissue | May accelerate cartilage loss with repeated use | Supports tissue repair and regeneration |
| Repeat Treatments | Limited due to tissue damage risk | Can be repeated safely as needed |
| Best For | Acute flare-ups needing quick relief | Chronic conditions, tendon injuries, early to moderate arthritis |
Dr. Bonner will discuss whether PRP, cortisone, or another approach is most appropriate for your specific condition and treatment goals.
PRP injections for sciatica are performed at our Miami clinic under image guidance. The procedure itself typically takes less than one hour. Patients may experience temporary soreness in the lumbar region or buttock following the injection, which typically resolves within a few days.
Improvement in sciatic pain generally develops gradually over 4–10 weeks as the targeted tissue heals and inflammation decreases. Some patients require a series of injections for optimal results.
PRP is not a cure for sciatica, but it can significantly reduce pain and support healing in the structures causing nerve irritation. Results vary based on the severity and underlying cause of each patient’s sciatica.
Because PRP uses your own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction or immune rejection. It is a well-tolerated, minimally invasive procedure with a low side effect profile.
Many patients who have had steroid injections are still good candidates for PRP. Dr. Bonner will review your prior treatment history and discuss how PRP fits into your overall care plan.
A comprehensive evaluation — including history, physical examination, and imaging review — is essential to confirm the diagnosis. Dr. Bonner will perform a thorough evaluation before recommending any treatment.
Not all PRP is created equal. The quality of your PRP treatment depends heavily on how the platelets are processed and how precisely they are delivered. As a Regenexx provider, Dr. Bonner offers several important advantages:
PRP therapy is an outpatient procedure and all patients go home the same day. Recovery is generally straightforward, but it’s important to understand that PRP works by stimulating a healing response — so some temporary soreness or pain in the treated area is normal and expected. General recovery guidelines include:
If you are dealing with low back pain and want to explore whether PRP therapy is right for you, we are here to help.
Contact our Miami clinic to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bonner, or book online through ZocDoc for available appointment times (if you do not see availability, please reach out to us directly at 786-522-4959).
BOOK ONLINE NOWWe do not quote prices over the phone, because the right treatment depends on what your exam and imaging actually show. We do explain exactly how cost works, why price comparisons between clinics are misleading, and why your evaluation is billed through your insurance.
Read our honest answer on PRP and stem cell treatment cost in Miami
