Regenerative procedures are becoming more popular with the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. Degenerative conditions, such as arthritis, are common conditions that motivate patients to research the physicians at StemCell ARTS. One of the most frequently asked questions the office gets when patients inquire about regenerative treatments for their ailment is, “Am I still a candidate for regenerative procedures if I am bone-on-bone?”. The short answer is that candidates who have been told that they are “bone-on-bone” can still respond well to the regenerative treatments performed at StemCell ARTS. Often, patients are given the diagnosis on “bone-on-bone” following a x-ray of the area. While x-rays are helpful for showing the narrowing of the space between two joints, it does not show any soft tissues. The regenerative procedures are designed to help repair any lost or damaged soft tissue. As a result, MRIs will often be ordered for patients who have not had a MRI completed within the past few years. The MRI images provide more detailed information regarding the condition of the soft tissue, as opposed to only showing the condition of the bones on x-ray. The MRIs will sometime show that there is, in fact, cartilage present even though the joint space is considerably narrowed.
During the initial visit, the physicians at StemCell ARTS will perform a comprehensive exam of the area in question. If additional images, such as MRIs, are requested, the physician will provide the patient with an order to have this imaging completed at the location of their choice. Based on the exam and the imaging, the physician is able to make an informed decision regarding whether or not a patient will respond well to regenerative treatments. If the physician determines that the injury is outside the scope of what can be completed with regenerative therapies, he will make recommendations for the patient regarding their next steps.
In the video below, Dr. Friedlis goes into further detail regarding regenerative treatments for patients who are “bone-on-bone”.
Experiencing a “pop” or “clicking” in the hip joint is often something that cannot be ignored. Pain radiating from the hip down the front of the thigh or groin area could be a result of a tear within the hip labrum. The labrum is a small layer of cartilage between the ball and socket of the hip joint that provides cushion and assists in the motion of the hip. An injury common among athletes, extreme compression or quick twisting / wrenching of the hip can cause areas of this cartilage to tear, resulting in severe and intense pain. In the past, invasive surgery was the only option for helping resolve this condition. However, since the hip is a poorly vasculized area, and often does not heal well on its own, surgery can result in less than desirable results.
Recent studies have found that regenerative treatments can be used to heal a labral tear without the risks and recovery time typically associated with surgeries to treat the same condition. New biological treatments, such as Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cells, activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms to help repair the injured and damaged tissues. PRP is a blood derivative procedure that releases growth factors to the injured area, stimulating tissue repair. Stem Cell therapy contains a sample of concentrated stem cells that have been harvested from the hip and isolated in the on-site laboratory. When injected into the hip, these regenerative therapies adhere to damaged tissues and attract growth factors to begin the repair process. StemCell ARTS, an affiliate of National Spine and Pain Centers, offers a variety of conventional and regenerative therapies to treat labral tears and assist in the restoration of patients’ mobility, while avoiding invasive surgery.
…StemCell ARTS has created a Facebook Patient Discussion Forum?
Our goal is to create an open discussion forum for patients who are interested in, or have had, the regenerative procedures performed at StemCell ARTS. Comments will be available to the public. This patient forum will allow patients who have completed consultations with one of our StemCell ARTS physicians to speak with other current patients to help them decide if our regenerative procedures are right for them. In addition, the forum will facilitate an open discussion between patients who have had, or are undergoing, regenerative procedures at StemCell ARTS. They can share their experiences to help eachother through the treatment and recovery process.
The discussion topics and reference materials contained are intended for the general information of the reader. It is not to be used for diagnoses or treatment, but rather for discussion with others who have similar questions and concerns regarding our procedures. The information provided is not intended to diagnose health problems, or take the place of professional medical care. The answers in this discussion forum should, in no way, be considered specific medical advice. DO NOT stop or modify your treatment plan without consulting with your physician.
…that insurances will cover the initial consultation visit to discuss regnerative therapies?
The phrase “not covered by insurance” can be a scary thought when considering alternatives to surgery. Still considered “new” to the world of medicine, regenerative treatments are a non-covered service through insurance, leaving the cost to be the patient’s responsibility.
Although this may be a disheartening thought, the initial consultation can still qualify under a patient’s insurance. Scheduling a consultation with a StemCell ARTS physician allows for the chance to receive a full examination and diagnosis, while only being responsible for the copay, current deductible and/or co-insurance. Patients are able to leave the office with a full treatment plan and a breakdown of any potential cost and time commitments.
StemCell ARTS participates with most all insurances, and requires a referral based on specific insurances qualifications.
Los Angeles Angels’ starting pitcher, Garrett Richards, faced surgical intervention following a high-grade tear of his ulnar collateral ligament. A common injury among pitchers, due to the wear and tear placed on the elbow, surgery to repair an ulnar collateral ligament can results in long periods of recovery. Athletes choosing to proceed with stem cell therapy can avoid lengthy periods of downtime and rehabilitation, typically associated with surgery. Stem cell therapy gets athletes back in the game, quickly!
The Winchester Star recently published an article about Dr. Rodney Dade’s patient’s successful stem cell procedure and subsequent return to running. (more…)
StemCell ARTS is an Affiliate of National Spine and Pain Centers
If the regenerative treatment options offered by StemCell ARTS are not right for you, National Spine and Pain Centers provide more traditional treatments for spine and joint conditions.
