Understanding Regenerative Treatments Available to You
Orthobiologics, also called orthopedic regenerative medicine, is a cutting-edge new treatment approach that takes advantage of the body’s healing ability. The human body naturally contains what it needs to regenerate. In some cases, however, the body may not produce enough of a substance to fulfill its purpose. In other cases, natural substances may need some help getting to where they will provide the best benefits.
Physicians take substances from the patient’s body or other biological (natural) sources and inject them at strategic locations to treat a variety of conditions. Common applications of orthobiological treatments include:
Orthobiologics are not a single treatment type but rather a general approach that includes a variety of procedures. Common types of orthobiologics include:
Blood contains platelets, small cells that play a vital role in healing. While best known for clotting, platelets also carry proteins that tell cells when to reproduce. These proteins, called growth factors, help damaged tissues regenerate after an injury or surgery. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are derived from the patient’s blood. The blood is processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and then injected near the site of an injury. This delivers a large amount of platelets directly to where they are needed most. Applications include:
Bone marrow contains stem cells, which are undifferentiated cells that may become any kind of tissue. Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) injections take stem cells from bone marrow and then re-insert them near the site of pain. The stem cells may then become whatever type of cell is needed to heal. This treatment is used to support complex healing processes that include cartilage and other hard-to-repair tissues. Its applications include:
Hyaluronic acid is a fluid that naturally occurs in joints. Its job is to lubricate the joint, enabling smooth, friction-free operation. In joints affected by arthritis, however, there may not be enough hyaluronic acid to sufficiently lubricate the bones. This causes friction, resulting in the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid directly into an arthritic joint, replenishing fluids and restoring pain-free function.
Orthobiologics have demonstrated numerous benefits in treating multiple orthopedic conditions. More providers and patients alike are adopting this method for sports medicine, age-related maladies, and more. This is because it provides several benefits over other approaches, including:
Orthobiologics can be used alone, but they are often combined with other treatments. This provides a more comprehensive tissue repair, helping patients heal better than ever.
Patients looking for advanced orthopedic care can find it at Southlake Orthopaedics. We are committed to providing complete care at every step of the process, from testing to surgery and rehabilitation. We leverage the most innovative treatment technologies, including orthobiologics, to help patients achieve the best possible results from their treatment.
Southlake Orthopaedics is led by a team of multi-specialty orthopedic physicians who work with patients to develop a fully personalized treatment plan. They take all factors into account, then deliver treatment that is tailored to the individual. In addition, we maintain several amenities on-site. Physical therapy, full-service orthotics, and an osteoporosis clinic are all available at our location, ensuring patients have convenient access to all forms of care.
The quality care at Southlake Orthopaedics is made possible by our skilled team of board-certified physicians. They treat patients with compassion and a personal touch, ensuring their comfort while visiting our practice. Meet our injection team below:
If you are living with an injury or condition that resists treatment, there is still hope. Find less pain, more living at Southlake Orthopaedics. With locations near you in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, we serve Central Alabama residents with cutting-edge treatments, including orthobiologics, to help patients recover from pain. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment and find out whether orthobiologics are right for you.