Regenexx® procedures provide non-surgical treatment options for those suffering from pain related to orthopedic issues including osteoarthritis, joint injuries, spine pain, overuse conditions, and common sports injuries. Our proprietary, research-based methods and patented protocol allow our doctors to concentrate your cells and apply them precisely to your injured area.
Regenexx® is a provider network doing procedural based care. We pioneered the use of orthopedic bone marrow concentrate to treat common orthopedic conditions to help people avoid surgery using cells from their own body.
Regenexx® has published roughly half of all research world-wide on the use of bone marrow concentrate for orthopedic conditions, and we created the field of interventional orthopedic protocols, the use of your body’s natural healing abilities to repair orthopedic injuries non-surgically. Our approach is rooted in our research and is constantly being refined and developed as we continue to lead the way in finding better methods for harnessing your body’s own healing agents to repair damaged tissue. Our proprietary protocol leads to arguably the world’s most advanced platform for in-office interventional orthopedics.
As the inventors of the specialty of Interventional Orthopedics, a specialty that focuses on using your body’s natural healing agents to treat orthopedic injuries, Regenexx® is dedicated to a research-driven approach. We have a dedicated research and development team and a specialized research laboratory with more than $1 million of equipment that are constantly refining our treatment protocols and developing new techniques. Regenexx® has developed many of the processing and treatment techniques in use today and we have published roughly half of all research world-wide on the use of bone marrow concentrate, which contain stem cells, for treatment of orthopedic injuries. In addition, we track results from Regenexx® procedures in our outcomes database. We believe that bone marrow concentrate and other blood-based treatments are not magical and that not all approaches are created equal.
What is a Regenerative Therapy with Regenexx®?
Broadly speaking, Regenexx® treatments can fall into two main categories:
1. Platelet rich plasma (PRP): PRP injections involve the extraction and concentration of a patient’s own blood, specifically the platelet-rich component. This concentrated plasma, rich in growth factors, is then injected into injured or painful areas, such as joints or soft tissues. PRP injections are used to reduce inflammation and help restore a healthier joint. This can be used to manage pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and ligament injuries.
2. Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) Injections: BMAC injections involve the extraction of bone marrow from a patient’s hip or another suitable location. The bone marrow is then processed in the lab to create the most beneficial injection for the individual patient. This is then injected into areas of the body to assist in the management of orthopedic conditions like osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, and certain musculoskeletal injuries.
Why is Regenerative Therapy with Regenexx® performed?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) procedures are performed to harness the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Here are the primary reasons why PRP and BMAC procedures are performed:
1. Assist the body’s natural healing ability: PRP and BMAC contain a concentrated mixture of platelets, growth factors, and other bioactive proteins that play a crucial role. These procedures are used for degenerated tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints.
2. Orthopedic Conditions: PRP and BMAC injections are commonly used in orthopedic medicine to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, ligament injuries, and muscle strains. They can help reduce pain, inflammation, and improve joint function.
3. Sports Injuries: Athletes often undergo PRP and BMAC procedures to expedite recovery from sports-related injuries, such as tendon or ligament tears. These treatments can help athletes return to their sports activities more quickly.
4. Non-Surgical Approach: PRP and BMAC offer a non-surgical alternative for individuals who prefer to avoid or delay surgical interventions. They are considered minimally invasive procedures.
5. Chronic Pain Management: PRP and BMAC injections can provide long-lasting pain relief for individuals with chronic pain conditions, such as osteoarthritis, without relying on ongoing medication.
6. Regenerative Medicine: These procedures are at the forefront of regenerative medicine, which seeks to harness the body’s natural healing abilities.
7. Reduce Inflammation: The growth factors and anti-inflammatory proteins in PRP and BMAC can help reduce inflammation in affected tissues, which is often a contributing factor to pain and dysfunction.
8. Improved Functionality: PRP and BMAC can lead to improved functionality and mobility, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with less discomfort.
9. Customized Treatment: PRP and BMAC can be tailored to the specific needs of each patient, providing a personalized approach to symptom management.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of PRP and BMAC procedures can vary from person to person, and not everyone may experience the same degree of benefit.
How is Regenerative Therapy with Regenexx® performed?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) injections are minimally invasive procedures performed by trained board certified physicians. Here’s a brief overview of how each of these injections is typically performed:
PRP Injection:
1. Blood Collection:
- A small amount of the patient’s blood, usually from the arm, is drawn using a syringe, similar to a routine blood test.
2. Lab Processing:
- The collected blood is processed in the lab using a proprietary technique that optimizes the amount of growth factors and other beneficial proteins.
3. Injection Site Preparation:
- The injection site, typically an area of injury or pain (e.g., a joint or tendon), is cleaned and sterilized.
4. Injection:
- Using a thin needle, the PRP is injected directly into the target area. Live x-ray (fluoroscopy) or ultrasound is used to guide the injection to the precise location.
5. Bandage Application:
- After the injection, a small bandage or dressing may be applied to the injection site. Patients are usually observed for a short period in a recovery area.
BMAC Injection:
1. Bone Marrow Aspiration:
- A small amount of bone marrow is typically aspirated (drawn) from the patient’s hip bone (iliac crest). Local anesthesia is used to numb the area before the aspiration.
2. Bone Marrow Processing:
- The aspirated bone marrow is then processed in the lab to separate and concentrate the cellular components, creating the optimal concentration.
3. Injection Site Preparation:
- Similar to PRP injections, the injection site is cleaned and sterilized.
4. Injection:
- The concentrated bone marrow aspirate is injected directly into the target area, such as a joint, tendon, or other damaged tissue. Live x-ray (fluoroscopy) or ultrasound is used to guide the injection to the precise location.
5. Bandage Application:
- After the injection, a bandage or dressing may be applied to the injection site. Patients are monitored for a short period before being discharged.
For more information on the Regenexx procedure techniques, please see the procedure videos at the Regenexx website here: https://regenexx.com/resources/videos/
What Can I Expect After Regenerative Therapy with Regenexx®?
After undergoing a Regenexx® injection, there are several expectations and considerations for the post-procedure period. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Immediate Post-Procedure Period:
- Recovery Area: You may be monitored in a recovery area for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications or adverse reactions to the injection.
- Slight Discomfort: You may experience some mild discomfort or soreness at the injection site. This is normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or as advised by your physician.
- Activity and Rest: Your physician will likely provide specific instructions regarding post-injection activity. In many cases, you can resume normal activities the same day or within a few days, but you may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise or activities for a brief period.
Pain Relief Timeline:
- Onset of Relief: The onset of pain relief can vary from person to person and depends on the specific condition being treated. Some individuals experience immediate relief, while others may require weeks for the full effects of Regenexx to become noticeable.
- Duration of Relief: The duration of pain relief also varies. Some patients experience long-lasting benefits, while others may need periodic injections for sustained relief.
Follow-Up Appointments:
- Scheduled Follow-Up: Your physician will typically schedule follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the injection and monitor your progress. Additional injections may be recommended based on your response to treatment.
Monitoring and Communication:
- Pay Attention to Changes: Be mindful of how your pain changes following the injection. If you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms, such as signs of infection, worsening pain, or allergic reactions, contact us promptly.
- Communication: Maintain open communication with your doctor regarding your pain levels, the duration of relief, and any concerns you may have during the post-procedure period.
Long-Term Expectations:
- Individual Variation: The effectiveness of PRP can vary from person to person, and not everyone may experience the same degree of benefit. Your physician will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.
It’s important to follow your physician’s post-procedure instructions carefully, including any prescribed medications and activity recommendations. Regenexx® injections are generally safe and offer a regenerative approach to pain management but individual responses to treatment may vary. Regular communication with your physician will help optimize your pain management plan and ensure your comfort and well-being during the recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Regenerative Therapy with Regenexx®
For a list of frequently asked questions about Regenexx®, please see the link below:
