SDOMG Webinar: Platelet Dose Matters
In this webinar, Dr. Evangelista and Dr. Rogers discuss the latest clinical research regarding dosing with Platelet-Rich Plasma treatments.
In this webinar, Dr. Evangelista and Dr. Rogers discuss the latest clinical research regarding dosing with Platelet-Rich Plasma treatments.
Regenerative medicine, including therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cell therapy, and other biologic injections, offers exciting possibilities for healing chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries. While these treatments can stimulate the body’s natural repair processes, your preparation and aftercare play an important role in recovery and results.
Here are some practical tips to help you prepare for your procedure and ensure a smooth recovery:
Your provider will likely give you specific guidelines before your treatment. This may include stopping certain medications (like anti-inflammatories or blood thinners), avoiding alcohol, and staying hydrated. Following these directions carefully can optimize your results.
Good nutrition helps your body heal. Focus on a diet rich in lean proteins, leafy greens, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats. Foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and omega-3s support tissue repair and reduce inflammation naturally. Staying well hydrated is equally important.
While regenerative treatments are minimally invasive, your body still needs time to heal. Depending on the procedure, you may need to limit certain activities for a few days or weeks. Arrange your schedule so you have time to rest and avoid overexertion.
Make recovery easier by preparing in advance:
It can be tempting to test improvements right away, but pushing your body too soon may slow healing. Follow your provider’s instructions on activity levels, physical therapy, and exercise. Gradual return to movement is key.
Stress management, patience, and mental wellness are part of recovery. Techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, or journaling can help you stay positive and reduce anxiety while your body heals.
Regenerative medicine is often a process rather than a one-time fix. Attend follow-up appointments, participate in recommended physical therapy, and communicate openly with your provider about your progress.
Final Thoughts
Regenerative treatments can be life-changing, but the best results come from being proactive and engaged in your own recovery. By preparing your body, planning your environment, and following professional guidance, you’ll give yourself the best chance for a smoother recovery and long-term benefits.
Regenerative medicine has emerged as a groundbreaking frontier in healthcare, offering hope to those suffering from chronic pain, degenerative conditions, and tissue injuries. This field harnesses the body’s natural healing abilities to restore or replace damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve function. From platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to stem cell treatments, regenerative therapies are transforming how we approach recovery and long-term wellness.
But not everyone is an ideal candidate. Understanding whether regenerative medicine is right for you is crucial to getting the best results. If you’ve been considering this innovative approach, here are five signs you might be a good candidate for regenerative medicine treatments.
Regenerative medicine has shown particular promise in treating orthopedic conditions, especially those involving joints, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Whether it’s a sports injury like a torn meniscus or rotator cuff, or chronic issues such as osteoarthritis, regenerative therapies can help repair damaged tissues and reduce inflammation.
If you’ve been struggling with:
…you may be a strong candidate for treatments like stem cell therapy or PRP injections. These approaches aim to accelerate the body’s natural healing process, potentially helping you avoid invasive surgery or long-term use of pain medications.
Bonus Tip: If you’re in the early to moderate stages of arthritis or injury, you’re more likely to benefit from regenerative treatments than if your joint is severely damaged or completely worn down.
If you’ve already tried physical therapy, rest, steroid injections, and anti-inflammatory medications without success, regenerative medicine may be your next step. Many patients turn to regenerative therapies when they reach a plateau in traditional treatment or want to avoid more aggressive interventions like surgery.
Patients often choose regenerative medicine because:
It’s important to understand that regenerative treatments are not a quick fix. They work by stimulating the body’s healing mechanisms, which may take weeks or even months to show full results. But for many, the wait is worth the long-term improvement.
Your overall health plays a significant role in determining whether regenerative medicine will be effective. While these therapies are minimally invasive and low-risk, your body needs to be in a relatively good state to respond optimally to treatment.
Ideal candidates typically:
Good health doesn’t mean you have to be an elite athlete—it just means your body can efficiently participate in the healing process. If you’re not sure whether your health status qualifies, a qualified regenerative medicine specialist can help evaluate your risk factors and determine the safest approach.
Surgery isn’t always the best or most desirable option, especially when it comes with extended downtime, risks, and unpredictable outcomes. Regenerative medicine appeals to many people because it offers a non-surgical alternative that may still provide meaningful relief and functional improvement.
If you’re considering surgery but:
…then regenerative therapies may be an appropriate avenue to explore.
For example, some patients with degenerative disc disease or mild meniscus tears can avoid or delay surgery through stem cell or PRP treatments, which aim to reduce pain and improve mobility naturally. While not a guaranteed substitute for surgery, these therapies may help manage symptoms and extend the life of your joints or tissues.
Regenerative medicine is part of a bigger picture—one that includes lifestyle, nutrition, physical therapy, and patient mindset. The most successful outcomes often come from individuals who are proactive, disciplined, and patient.
Ask yourself:
These treatments are not magic bullets. They’re catalysts for your body’s natural healing systems, and that process takes time and effort. Being engaged and proactive in your care significantly increases your chances of a positive outcome.
Regenerative medicine is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While it holds exciting promise for many, there are circumstances where it might not be the best choice. Severe joint deformities, complete tissue loss, or advanced systemic diseases may limit the effectiveness of these therapies.
That’s why a comprehensive evaluation with a regenerative medicine specialist is critical. A qualified provider will assess your medical history, imaging, lifestyle, and goals to determine whether you’re likely to benefit—and they won’t recommend it unless they genuinely believe it can help you.
Regenerative medicine offers a path toward healing that emphasizes the body’s innate ability to recover, repair, and rejuvenate. If you’re dealing with persistent joint or tendon issues, have tried conservative treatments without success, are in good overall health, and are motivated to avoid surgery through a more natural and holistic route, you might be an excellent candidate.
The best first step? Schedule a consultation with a trusted provider specializing in regenerative therapies at San Diego Orthobiologics Medical Group. With a personalized evaluation and guidance, you can discover whether this innovative treatment could be the breakthrough your body has been waiting for.
Interested in learning more about regenerative medicine?
Our clinic offers in-depth assessments and cutting-edge regenerative therapies tailored to your needs. Contact us today to book a consultation and take the next step toward lasting relief and better function—naturally.
In the high-stakes world of sports, injury recovery time can define the trajectory of an athlete’s career. Whether it’s a torn ligament, chronic tendonitis, or a nagging joint issue, athletes are always seeking faster and more effective ways to heal and return to peak performance. This is where regenerative medicine, particularly Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC), has emerged as a transformative solution.
These innovative therapies leverage the body’s own biological resources to accelerate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and minimize downtime. In this post, we’ll delve into how PRP and BMAC are being used to help athletes recover faster from injuries and why they’re gaining popularity in sports medicine.
Regenerative medicine refers to treatments that aim to restore normal function by repairing or regenerating damaged tissues or organs using the body’s own healing mechanisms. Unlike traditional treatments that manage symptoms or rely on surgical intervention, regenerative therapies work at the cellular level to enhance the natural healing process.
Among the most widely accepted and commonly used forms of regenerative medicine in athletic recovery are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC).
PRP therapy involves concentrating platelets from a patient’s own blood and injecting them into the injured area. Platelets are rich in growth factors—biological signals that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration.
PRP is used extensively for musculoskeletal injuries common in sports, including:
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) is another autologous (self-derived) regenerative therapy. It involves aspirating bone marrow—typically from the iliac crest (hip bone)—and concentrating the healing components for injection into injured tissues.
BMAC is rich in:
BMAC is especially useful in treating:
BMAC has been studied for its potential in treating cartilage defects and bone injuries. A 2016 clinical trial published in Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine showed that athletes with knee cartilage lesions treated with BMAC experienced meaningful improvements in function and pain relief.
While both PRP and BMAC are powerful tools in regenerative medicine, they serve different roles depending on the nature and severity of the injury.
| Aspect | PRP | BMAC |
| Source | Blood | Bone marrow |
| Best For | Soft tissue injuries, mild arthritis | Bone/cartilage injuries, chronic damage |
| Processing Complexity | Low | Moderate to high |
| Healing Potential | Moderate | Higher (especially for deeper injuries) |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (blood draw) | Slightly more invasive (bone aspiration) |
In many sports medicine clinics, practitioners assess the injury type, severity, and the athlete’s goals to determine which therapy—or combination—is most suitable.
Athletes from every discipline, from weekend warriors to Olympic gold medalists, are increasingly turning to PRP and BMAC to speed up recovery. High-profile sports figures like Tiger Woods, Rafael Nadal, and Kobe Bryant have reportedly used PRP therapy to overcome injuries and return to elite competition.
For athletes, the primary appeal of these treatments lies in the combination of effectiveness and reduced recovery time. In a world where every game, match, or race matters, shaving weeks off a recovery timeline can make a critical difference.
While PRP and BMAC are promising, they’re not miracle cures. Effectiveness can vary based on:
Additionally, these treatments may not be covered by insurance and can be costly, though many athletes see them as worthwhile investments in their careers and long-term joint health.
Regenerative medicine is reshaping the future of sports injury recovery. PRP and BMAC stand at the forefront, offering biologically-based, minimally invasive options to accelerate healing and reduce downtime for athletes of all levels. As research continues and technology advances, the integration of these therapies into mainstream sports medicine is expected to grow—giving injured athletes a faster, safer path back to the game.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or an active individual looking to get back on your feet, PRP and BMAC offer compelling alternatives to surgery and long-term medications. Always consult with a qualified sports medicine specialist to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Arthritis affects over 58 million adults in the United States alone, making it a leading cause of disability and pain. Traditionally, treatment options have focused on symptom management through medications, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, joint replacement surgery. However, recent advances in regenerative medicine are changing the landscape of arthritis care by offering promising, non-surgical alternatives that aim to repair and restore damaged tissues.
In this post, we’ll explore the latest regenerative medicine techniques used to treat arthritis, how they work, and why they’re generating excitement among physicians and patients alike.
Arthritis is not a single disease but a term that covers more than 100 different types of joint conditions. The most common forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
Regardless of the type, arthritis often leads to joint pain, stiffness, decreased mobility, and a diminished quality of life.
Joint replacement surgery, while effective, comes with risks: infection, blood clots, lengthy recovery periods, and even the potential for implant failure over time. Many patients are not ready—or suitable candidates—for surgery and seek less invasive options to manage symptoms and improve joint function.
That’s where regenerative medicine steps in.
Regenerative medicine harnesses the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair or replace damaged tissues, including cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and even bone. These treatments aim to not only reduce symptoms but also to slow or potentially reverse the progression of arthritis.
The most promising regenerative therapies for arthritis include:
Let’s break down each of these innovative techniques.
PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this platelet-rich plasma into the affected joint.
Platelets contain growth factors that help stimulate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. When injected into an arthritic joint, PRP can:
Studies have shown PRP can be more effective than corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections in relieving knee osteoarthritis symptoms. Results are typically seen within weeks and can last for several months or even over a year.
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of transforming into various tissue types, including cartilage. In arthritis treatment, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are commonly harvested from a patient’s bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue and injected into the joint.
Once inside the joint, stem cells can:
Early studies have reported significant improvements in pain, mobility, and cartilage thickness following stem cell injections. While more research is needed to establish standardized protocols, the outlook is encouraging—especially for early to moderate osteoarthritis.
Prolotherapy is a regenerative injection technique that involves injecting a natural irritant—often a dextrose (sugar) solution—into the joint or surrounding ligaments and tendons.
The solution triggers a localized inflammatory response, prompting the body to send healing cells to the area. Over time, this can strengthen connective tissues and stabilize the joint.
Prolotherapy is particularly effective for patients with joint instability, ligament laxity, or early-stage arthritis. It’s less commonly used for severe osteoarthritis but can still play a role as part of a broader regenerative plan.
Benefits of Regenerative Medicine for Arthritis
Regenerative therapies work best in the early to moderate stages of arthritis. They may not be as effective for patients with advanced joint deterioration.
These treatments are often not covered by insurance and can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per session. However, many patients find the cost worthwhile for the benefits they experience.
It’s essential to seek care from physicians who specialize in regenerative medicine and follow best practices for safety, preparation, and delivery. Improper technique or unregulated products can result in complications.
Regenerative medicine is rapidly evolving. As research deepens and technology advances, these therapies may soon become mainstream components of arthritis care. Clinical trials are underway to determine long-term outcomes, best candidates, and optimal treatment protocols.
What’s exciting is that these approaches shift the paradigm from merely managing symptoms to actively promoting healing—a revolutionary step for the millions living with arthritis.
If you’re struggling with arthritis pain and looking for alternatives to surgery, regenerative medicine offers a promising path forward. From PRP to stem cells and beyond, these innovative techniques can help restore joint health, improve function, and reduce your reliance on medications.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine which therapy, if any, is right for you. With the right approach, living well with arthritis is not only possible—it’s becoming increasingly probable.
Interested in learning more about regenerative treatments? Talk to a regenerative medicine specialist or rheumatologist to explore your options based on your specific type of arthritis and stage of progression.
Joint pain can be a daily struggle, affecting everything from simple walks to sleep and overall quality of life. For many, traditional treatments like physical therapy, medications, or even surgery provide only limited relief—or come with side effects and long recovery times. That’s where regenerative medicine steps in, offering innovative options like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Cell Therapy. These treatments harness the body’s own healing powers to target the root of joint pain, not just mask the symptoms.
If you’re curious about how PRP and Cell Therapy work, and whether they might be right for you or someone you love, read on. We’ll break down the science in simple terms and explore how these therapies are changing the way we treat joint issues.
What Causes Joint Pain?
Joint pain can stem from many sources: injury, overuse, inflammation, arthritis (especially osteoarthritis), or even simple aging. The cartilage that cushions joints can wear down, tendons and ligaments can become inflamed or torn, and the surrounding tissues may degenerate over time.
Traditionally, options like corticosteroid injections or anti-inflammatory drugs have been used to reduce pain. However, these don’t actually repair damage—they just offer temporary relief. That’s where regenerative therapies like PRP and cell therapy stand apart: they aim to stimulate healing, not just dull the pain.
What Is PRP Therapy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment that uses a concentration of your own platelets to accelerate healing in damaged joints and tissues.
Platelets are best known for clotting blood, but they also contain growth factors—powerful proteins that promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate cell regeneration. By injecting a high concentration of these growth factors directly into the joint, PRP therapy encourages the body to repair itself.
What Is Cell Therapy?
Cell therapy—often referred to as stem cell therapy—uses the body’s own cells to rebuild and repair damaged tissues. These aren’t embryonic stem cells but rather adult stem cells, typically derived from bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue.
These cells have the ability to differentiate—meaning they can transform into other types of cells, such as cartilage, bone, or tendon cells. They also release molecules that reduce inflammation and promote healing at the cellular level.
PRP vs. Cell Therapy: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | PRP Therapy | Cell Therapy |
| Source | Platelets from your blood | Stem cells from bone marrow or fat |
| Mechanism | Stimulates healing with growth factors | Repairs tissue by regenerating new cells |
| Best For | Mild to moderate joint damage | Moderate to severe degeneration |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Slightly more invasive (requires tissue harvesting) |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Think of PRP as a “booster” that speeds up healing, while cell therapy is a “builder” that can regenerate more extensive damage.
What to Expect from Treatment
Both PRP and cell therapy are usually done in an outpatient setting. The procedures typically take 1-2 hours. Since your own cells are used, the risk of allergic reactions is minimal.
The Science Behind It
PRP and cell therapy are backed by a growing body of research. For example:
While not a miracle cure, these therapies are helping people delay or even avoid surgery, including joint replacement.
Is It Safe?
Yes—for most patients, PRP and cell therapy are considered safe and well-tolerated. Because the materials come from your own body, the risk of infection or rejection is extremely low. However, like any medical procedure, results aren’t guaranteed, and not everyone is a good candidate.
It’s crucial to consult with a medical provider who specializes in regenerative medicine to determine if these treatments are appropriate for your condition.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
Unfortunately, most insurance companies don’t yet cover PRP or cell therapy, viewing them as experimental. That’s slowly changing as more evidence emerges. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars (for PRP) to several thousand (for cell therapy), so be sure to ask for a cost estimate before committing.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
You might be a good candidate for PRP or cell therapy if you:
The Future of Joint Pain Treatment
PRP and cell therapy offer a promising new frontier in the treatment of joint pain. These regenerative therapies don’t just cover up symptoms—they tap into the body’s natural ability to heal, rebuild, and regenerate. While they’re not a replacement for all conventional treatments, they can be a powerful tool in the journey to pain relief, better mobility, and improved quality of life.
If joint pain is holding you back, it may be time to consider a regenerative approach. Consult a knowledgeable provider to explore whether PRP or cell therapy is the right path for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.