Am I a Candidate?
Your body has the ability to heal itself from certain injuries or conditions. Think about this simple example: a paper cut. Within a day or so, most people get a scab at the site of the cut. That scab is the body working to heal the skin and the tissue beneath it.
Regenerative medicine relies on the body’s ability to heal itself. The goal is to replace, or restore, human cells, tissues or organs. The hope is that over time your injured tissue will work normally again.
Regenerative medicine may help your body:
- Heal injuries faster
- Have less pain
- Repair damaged tissues
- Function better
Regenerative medicine has been used to treat a variety of injuries and condition, such as:
- Tendon injuries, including Achilles tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries, and “tennis elbow.”
- Arthritis and cartilage injuries
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Degenerative disc disease
- Facet joint arthritis
Regenerative medicine does not work for everyone. For some people, it is the last treatment that is attempted. Some studies have shown regenerative medicine to be a helpful treatment. However, when this information was written, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had not approved the use of regenerative medicine as treatment for musculoskeletal and spine conditions. In addition, this treatment has possible side effects and complications.
Examination
By looking at imaging studies, performing physical examination, and interviewing our patients, we can discuss the intricacies of their pathology from a comprehensive, authoritative perspective as only an experienced surgeon can.
Assessment
We will propose the best and most ethical treatment based on evidence-based medical literature. In some cases, stem cells may not be the best treatment option. Perhaps a steroid injection is all that is required. Or surgery is in order. In any event, treatment will only be dispensed after a careful analysis and discussion of all treatment options.
Finally, this treatment is typically not paid for by insurance plans. It can be a very expensive treatment. If you have questions about the cost(s) and how to pay for this, ask a member of your care team who you can talk to.