Regenerative Medicine Reverses the Effects of Aging and Injuries

Orthobiologic Therapy is a new and expanding field of regenerative medicine aimed at treating injury, chronic pain, arthritis and other conditions associated with wear and tear and aging. Principal orthobiologic treatments include PRP and stem cell injections to address joints, the spine, tendons, ligament and muscle tears, as well as athletic injuries.

Cell-Based Therapies

Platelet-Rich Plasma Regenerative Medicine

At Regen Doctors, platelet-rich plasma or PRP is one of the treatments used to address conditions such as joint pain and disorders as well as injuries.

PRP is prepared from the patient’s own blood. It entails a simple blood draw, after which the sample is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma from the rest of the blood.  The concentrated blood sample containing platelets, growth factors, and numerous other pro-healing and regenerative substances greatly boost the healing process of tissues such as tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints.

When PRP is injected into the areas stricken with pain, it promotes the growth of fibrin scaffolds, a natural structure enabling the body’s own natural healing processes, promoting cell growth and tissue regeneration. During this process, PRP treatment can relieve symptoms such as pain and can address the conditions’ root causes.

Since regenerative medicine treatments are not surgeries and are minimally invasive procedures done on an outpatient basis, they have minimal downtime. After treatment, most patients experience joint fullness rather than pain. They are encouraged to rest for a few days and can resume their normal activities the following day.

Stem Cell Treatment in Pennsylvania

Like PRP, stem cells are another cornerstone of regenerative medicine that can address pain and injuries, relieving the symptoms and promoting healing and new tissue growth.

The substance is harvested from bone marrow or fatty tissue. Using ultrasound or X-ray guidance, the stem cells are then injected into the areas of concern. These promote healing as stem cells can then develop into other more specialized types of cells, such as those comprising muscle, bone or tendon. So as these injected stem cells start differentiating, they repair the damage or injury at the site.

In a way, stem cells are like strong anti-inflammatory medications. They release factors that reduce swelling, redness, and pain. They employ the body’s complete healing mechanism that will repair the root cause of the injury. Most importantly, the healing time is also greatly accelerated. This is a major advantage for professional athletes and now at Regen Doctors, it is available to all.

Stem cell treatments at Regen Doctors are performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthetic. Light sedation may also be utilized. As they are outpatient procedures, downtime is minimal.

Tissue Engineering and Biomaterials

Tissue Engineering: This involves creating artificial tissues and organs using a combination of cells, biomaterials (scaffolds), and growth factors. These engineered tissues can be used for transplantation or to promote tissue repair.

Biomaterials: Synthetic or natural materials are used to provide structural support for tissue regeneration. They can act as scaffolds for cell attachment and growth, guiding tissue formation.

Gene Therapy

Gene Editing: Techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 are used to modify a patient’s genetic material. This can be applied to correct genetic mutations responsible for diseases or enhance cellular functions related to tissue repair and regeneration.

Small Molecule Therapies

Small Molecules: These are chemical compounds that can influence cellular processes. They are used to stimulate specific cellular responses that promote tissue repair and regeneration.

Exosome Therapy

Exosomes: These are small vesicles secreted by cells that contain various bioactive molecules. Exosomes can play a role in cell-to-cell communication and can be harnessed to deliver therapeutic molecules and promote tissue repair.

Cytokine and Growth Factor Therapy

Cytokines and Growth Factors: These signaling molecules can stimulate cellular responses that promote tissue repair, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and immune modulation.

Nanotechnology

Nanoparticles: These tiny particles can be engineered to deliver therapeutic agents to specific cells or tissues, enhancing the effectiveness of regenerative treatments.

Regenerative Medicine at Bethlehem and Allentown, PA

Want to learn more about regenerative medicine and treatments such as PRP and stem cells? Reach out to our team at Regen Doctors. Our team of experts will help you determine the best treatment option and provide a personalized care plan so you can live your life to the fullest!