In October 2025, we began offering LIRA-Ortho® at ITU Clinic, a protocol I developed with Dr Massimo Donalisio, FMH radiologist specialising in interventional radiology. The idea is simple: to bring together, in a single pathway, the precision of ultrasound, laser, a PRP injection and rehabilitation.
By Jon Iturralde
Who is it for?
For people whose tendon or soft tissue has stayed painful for months despite well-conducted care: Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, elbow, shoulder, plantar fascia. Often athletes, often active people in their fifties or sixties who want to keep walking, playing golf, skiing or running.
How it works
Everything starts with a clinical and ultrasound assessment. If the indication is confirmed, the protocol combines ultrasound-guided high-intensity laser sessions, a PRP injection, prepared from your own blood and performed by Dr Donalisio, then progressive rehabilitation over several weeks. The schedule is adapted to each patient.
Why a combination
A single technique is not always enough for pain that lasts. Each step has its role: ultrasound to see the tissue precisely, laser and PRP to support the repair process, exercise so the tendon regains its capacity to take load. The doctor and the physiotherapist follow the patient together, from assessment to return to activity.
What we keep developing
With Dr Donalisio, we follow each patient with the same measures, at the start and during the protocol, to refine indications and scheduling. Our aim stays the same: an honest assessment of the indication before starting, and a clear plan.
This article is for information only. It does not replace a medical consultation.
References
- Fitzpatrick J. et al. The effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma injections in gluteal tendinopathy: a randomized, double-blind controlled trial comparing a single platelet-rich plasma injection with a single corticosteroid injection. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2018;46(4):933-939.
- Alayat M.S. et al. Long-term effect of high-intensity laser therapy in the treatment of patients with chronic low back pain: a randomized blinded placebo-controlled trial. Lasers in Medical Science. 2014;29(3):1065-1073.
- Malliaras P. et al. Achilles and patellar tendinopathy loading programmes: a systematic review comparing clinical outcomes and identifying potential mechanisms for effectiveness. Sports Medicine. 2013;43(4):267-286.