Human growth hormone (HGH) has been shown to have beneficial effects on healing and recovery from injuries, including injuries to tendons and ligaments. Here's an overview of what the research says about HGH and tissue repair:
- Several studies have found that HGH stimulates collagen synthesis in tendon and ligament cells, helping to rebuild and strengthen connective tissue. HGH signals cells called fibroblasts to produce more collagen, the main structural protein that makes up tendons and ligaments.
- HGH increases levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which plays an important role in tissue growth and healing. IGF-1 triggers cellular processes that enable tendons and ligaments to repair themselves after injury.
- In multiple trials on animals with surgically-induced tendon or ligament injuries, HGH injections sped up healing and improved the biomechanical strength and structure of the repaired tissue. Greater collagen content and organization were observed.
- A few small human studies also found beneficial effects of HGH on recovery from ligament and tendon injuries:
- In one study on recreational athletes with elbow tendonitis, HGH injections increased collagen synthesis and enhanced healing compared to no treatment.
- Another trial on patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructive surgery found that adding HGH to the rehab protocol improved knee strength and function.
In summary, evidence shows HGH can boost repair and strengthen tendons and ligaments after injury. HGH likely works by stimulating tissue growth, collagen production, and protein synthesis required for healing.
However, there are some important caveats to consider:
- Larger scale human trials are still needed to confirm HGH's therapeutic effects on tendon/ligament injuries. Much of the research is on animals or small-scale human studies.
- Appropriate HGH dosing and treatment regimens have not been established - most studies used injections at supra-physiological doses.
- HGH use can have side effects such as joint pain, edema and risk of diabetes if misused or abused. Close medical supervision is a must.
At
Hormone Therapy Clinic, we offer customized
HGH therapy programs to aid recovery from orthopedic injuries, under the guidance of our experienced hormone physicians. With the right protocols tailored to your situation, HGH may accelerate healing.
Contact us for a consultation to learn if HGH therapy could benefit your tendon or ligament injury. We develop science-based plans to help you recover faster while minimizing risks. Reach out today to start your journey towards healing.