Using PRP Injections for Autism – Novel Therapy
Alright, folks, grab your favorite drink, and let’s dive into the wild world of PRP injections. If you’re thinking PRP stands for “Pizza Really Pleases,” you’re not entirely wrong (it does, after all). But today, we’re talking about something even juicier: Platelet-Rich Plasma. Yes, that’s right, injecting your own blood back into your body to give your brain a boost. So, let’s go on this hilarious yet educational ride as we uncover what this plasma party is all about.
PRP Injections- Simplified for Beginners
Picture this: your blood is like a nightclub. You’ve got the red blood cells grooving on the dance floor and the white blood cells hanging out by the bar, ready to kick out troublemakers. Then, there’s the platelets, those VIPs who skip the line and get special treatment. In PRP therapy, they gather up all those platelets, give them a little pep talk in a centrifuge, and then reintroduce them into your body where they can party like it’s 1999. Once that happens, the inflammation is reduced, and symptoms theoretically improve.
Why are these platelets so important? First, they are full of growth factors, which act like tiny construction workers in your blood, always ready to build and repair. Got a scratch? They’re on it. Twisted your ankle? They’ve got you covered. Next, if your brain has issues with its communication signals, these platelets can help bring things back into balance. Lastly, these platelets have immune modulation properties that can interrupt the ongoing inflammatory cycle and potentially reprogram the immune system.
How PRP Injections Can Reduce Autism Symptoms
Now, let’s chat about how PRP might help with autism. Imagine your brain is a symphony orchestra, but instead of playing a harmonious tune, the violinists are playing heavy metal, the flutists are doing jazz, and the drummers have decided it’s time for a solo. Autism is a bit like that: a brain that’s having trouble getting all its instruments to play the same song at the same time.
Enter PRP, the magical plasma that might just be able to wave a conductor’s baton and get everyone on the same page. PRP is thought to work its magic by reducing inflammation in the brain. It might also help by encouraging the growth of new neurons and improving neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to learn new tunes.
The idea is that injecting PRP into specific areas of the brain could potentially help smooth out some of the symptoms of autism, like difficulty with communication and social interaction. Imagine your brain going from a chaotic garage band to a well-rehearsed orchestra. Sounds pretty cool, in theory at least.
PRP Injection Studies are Lacking but Immense Potential Exists
Before imagining yourself conducting Beethoven’s Fifth after your first PRP injection, let’s discuss the science. Spoiler alert: the science is still catching up with the hype, but let’s not let that spoil the fun.
A few studies have dipped their toes into the plasma pool, testing out PRP for autism. One study (on mice—because why not start with our tiny furry friends?) found that PRP injections helped reduce anxiety and improve social behavior. Of course, it’s one thing to turn a socially awkward mouse into the life of the party and quite another to do the same for humans. But, the truth is, it’s a start, and a promising one.
In the human world, a small pilot study looked at children with autism and found that PRP injections showed the potential to improve cognitive function and behavior. The researchers pointed to PRP’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective powers are likely the reason for its success.
But let’s be real: while these early results are exciting, we’re still in the early stages of figuring out if PRP is truly the brain’s best friend or just that cool acquaintance you met at a party. To be clear, I have heard great things from a doctor I know who has been using it for several months on his clients. Despite this, more studies and trials are needed to make sure PRP isn’t just a flash in the pan.
Here is a video by TruDOSE, a company that has created a patented PRP injection process. It claims to be unique because it identifies the exact dose that will work for each person. Take a look at this video below. If you like what they have to say, they have 50+ videos on Vimeo, including testimonials from clients and plenty more.
Autism from TruDOSE Therapy on Vimeo.
Potential Benefits of Using PRP for Autism
Alright, let’s say PRP is the real deal and we’re all about to become besties with our own blood. What could this mean for people with autism? Here are some potential benefits that could make PRP the next big thing in brain health:
Brain Chill-Out – Neuroinflammation Reduced
Inflammation in the brain is like having a permanent mosh pit. PRP could be the bouncer who comes in and cools things down, allowing the brain to function more smoothly.
Neuroplasticity Gym Membership – New Connections Made
Neuroplasticity is your brain’s ability to adapt, learn new things, and form new connections. PRP could be the personal trainer that helps your brain get ripped—mentally speaking, of course.
Better Social Skills – Less Anxious and More Adaptable
If PRP can help the brain’s regions communicate better, it might just lead to improvements in social interactions. Picture it like going from “I don’t want to talk to anyone” to “Let’s have a conversation about the weather!”—a big win for those with autism.
Calming the Nerves – Slow Down the Mind
Many with autism experience anxiety and repetitive behaviors, which can be exhausting. PRP might help reduce these symptoms, kind of like a brain massage that leaves you feeling more zen.
Understanding the PRP Injection Process
If you’re considering PRP injections, you probably want to know how it all works. Well, look no further! We provided a summary of the process for you below:
Blood Draw: First, they’ll take some of your blood. It’s like donating blood, but the donor and recipient are both you. Talk about a win-win!
Spin Cycle: Next, your blood takes a spin in a centrifuge, where it’s separated into different components. The platelets rise to the top like the foam on a well-poured cappuccino.
Plasma Perfection: The platelet-rich plasma is carefully extracted, ensuring only the best of the best gets to party in your body.
Injection Time: Finally, the PRP is injected back into your body, sometimes directly into the brain, sometimes into muscles or joints. Don’t worry; it’s not as scary as it sounds, and your body will recognize this as its own, as if you are welcoming back an old friend.
Now that you understand the process a bit better, let’s go over some of the most common questions about PRP.
Frequently Asked Questions: Using PRP Injections for Autism
How can PRP injections help those with autism?
PRP is a molecule with significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. In autism cases, there is typically significant neuroinflammation present. If the PRP can reduce the severity of this inflammation, symptoms can lessen.
Have you known anyone who tried PRP injections?
I have not personally used PRP injections. I have only heard of positive results from a doctor I highly respect. He said the disorders involving neuroinflammation and behavior issues benefitted the most. He also stated that you do have to continue receiving treatment for benefits. Though some people experience benefits the first time, they usually become more noticeable after a few treatments.
Is anyone performing PRP injections in the USA?
Yes, I learned about PRP injections from a doctor in Ann Arbor, MI. He sent out an email stating that he has seen positive results over the first several months of using it with clients. If interested, just start googling away, and I’m sure you will find someone relatively close who is offering PRP injections.
Are there any other autism therapies this would complement?
If the patient is autistic, the first step is to modify the diet to reduce allergy potential. I would also consider environmental irritants like mold mycotoxins, synthetic products of any kind, fragrances, cooking fumes, and anything affecting indoor air quality. In most cases, they have strong inflammatory reactions to what they eat and inhale. In addition, anything that stimulates them further brings the brain further out of balance. This can even be things like video games, watching TV, etc. The key is identifying the trigger and making changes to prevent it in the future.
PRP Injection Evidence – Encouraging but Not Conclusive
Here’s the million-dollar question: is PRP the brain’s new best friend, or just another health trend that’ll fade faster than you can say “coconut oil”? The truth is, I don’t know yet. After hearing of positive experiences from a doctor I worked with, I decided to post this article. He has been using PRP for 7 months on his clients, and is and seeing impressive results. There is no question that PRP holds promise, and though early studies are encouraging, we’re still waiting for that blockbuster trial that confirms its potential.
In the meantime, if you’re considering PRP injections for autism, it’s essential to approach it with both excitement and caution. Do your homework, talk to your doctor, and weigh the pros and cons. PRP could very well be the next big thing or just another step in our journey to better understand autism.
If you need help understanding PRP injection therapy or have any other health-related questions, feel free to contact me. I am here to help.
Happy healing everyone!
Matt Nedin, BS
Certified Holistic Nutritionist
EndSickness, Founder
Phone: (734) 846-8619
WhatsApp: +17348468619
Email: endsickness@gmail.com
References
- Hyman, S. L., Levy, S. E., & Myers, S. M. (2020). Identification, evaluation, and management of children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatrics, 145(1), e20193447.
- Ali, M., Anwar, M., & Saeed, M. A. (2015). Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A review of biology and applications in surgery. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, 31(6), 1640.
- Gabr, M. A., El-Khatib, H., & Elmasry, O. A. (2020). Platelet-rich plasma for autism: Current evidence and future directions. Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, 76, 218-222.
