Regenerative Medicine Specialist

What is regenerative medicine?

Regenerative medicine encompasses a variety of treatment methods that focus on rebuilding and repairing cells and tissues. Many regenerative medicine techniques use substances that normally occur in your body, such as stem cells and growth factors. These substances promote tissue healing by stimulating the growth of healthy new cells. 

Depending on your condition, regenerative medicine may reduce your need for pain medications and invasive procedures like surgery. 

What are different regenerative medicine techniques?

Dr. Benny may recommend regenerative medicine as a stand-alone treatment, or he may combine it with other treatments, such as physical therapy. He uses several types of regenerative medicine procedures at The Spine and Sports Center, including:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

PRP uses components of your blood to accelerate healing. Platelets contain hundreds of growth factors that stimulate your body’s natural healing process. Because PRP comes from your own blood, there’s little risk of side effects. 

Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy involves injecting an irritant, such as dextrose (a sugar solution) to trigger your body’s repair process. 

Stem cells

Stem cells are special because of their ability to develop into various types of cells, such as cartilage or muscle. Depending on your specific situation, Dr. Benny may collect stem cells from your bone marrow in a process called harvesting. 

Amniotic membrane injections

In some cases, Dr. Benny may use amnio membrane injections. These contain cytokines and growth factors that come from the amniotic fluid of live, willing donors and are processed in a highly regulated lab. Amnio membrane is rich in cytokines and growth factors and helps reduce inflammation. 

What does regenerative medicine treat?

Regenerative medicine can provide pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved function in patients with a wide range of injuries and illnesses. Dr. Benny may recommend regenerative medicine as part of your individualized treatment plan for the following conditions:

• Arthritis, including osteoarthritis
• Chronic tendon injuries
• Chronic low back pain
• Ligament injuries
• Cartilage injuries
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow

You may be a candidate for regenerative medicine if you continue to experience debilitating pain and symptoms from a musculoskeletal condition despite conservative treatments like physical therapy. Regenerative medicine may also help you heal more quickly after surgical procedures, such as rotator cuff repair.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for regenerative medicine, call The Spine and Sports Center or book an appointment online today.