Bone Marrow Concentrate Therapy

Bone Marrow Concentrate Therapy Near Me Reduces Inflammation With Your Own Stem Cells

What Is the Regenexx®-SD?

Regenexx®-SD is bone marrow concentrate, which contains stem cells, the repair cells our body uses to replace injured or old cells. As we age or have big injuries, we may not be able to recruit enough of these cells to the site to fully repair the area. Bone marrow concentrate therapy is a way to restore your body’s joint and tendon function and reduce pain and inflammation. This type of treatment is often referred to as a BMAC procedure (bone marrow concentrate procedure).

When Is a Regenexx®-SD Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMAC) Procedure Performed?

The goal of the procedure is to reduce pain and improve function by promoting the body’s own ability to heal naturally. This patented bone marrow concentrate protocol can be used for a wide range of orthopedic conditions. If your condition is causing you chronic pain and inflammation and negatively impacting your way of life, we may recommend bone marrow concentrate therapy to provide you with the relief you need.

How Is a Regenexx®-SD Bone Marrow Concentrate Procedure Performed?

The Regenexx®-SD Procedure involves harvesting bone marrow from an area of the back of the hip that contains a dense population of stem cells and then concentrating those cells before precisely injecting them into the injured area using advanced imaging guidance.

How Do I know If Bone Marrow Concentrate Is an Appropriate Option for Me?

You may be an ideal candidate for bone marrow concentrate therapy if you’re living with osteoarthritis or another joint condition that’s preventing you from performing daily activities, hobbies, and more. Dr. Santo will evaluate your condition and your imaging to determine whether a bone marrow concentrate or platelet-based treatment is the best option for your orthopedic condition. We’re committed to restoring your quality of life, so you can get back to doing what you love without suffering from inflammation. Contact us to find out about bone marrow concentrate therapy near me. If you’re considering a BMAC procedure, Dr. Santo will review your goals, medical history, and imaging to determine whether this approach is appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions on Bone Marrow Derived Stem Cell Therapy to Treat Orthopedic Conditions

What is bone marrow–derived stem cell therapy?

Bone Marrow -derived stem cell therapy uses your own stem cells — harvested from your bone marrow — to promote healing in damaged joints, tendons, and cartilage. The most commonly used cells are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have the ability to differentiate into bone, cartilage, and soft tissue. They also release anti-inflammatory signals that may reduce pain and stimulate natural repair processes.

Which orthopedic conditions can be treated with this therapy?

The most common applications include knee osteoarthritis, hip osteoarthritis, shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tears (partial or full thickness), labral tears, tendinopathies (such as tennis elbow or patellar tendinitis), tendon tears and early-stage avascular necrosis. It is generally considered when conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections have not provided sufficient relief.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure typically involves two steps. First, bone marrow is aspirated — usually from the posterior iliac crest of the pelvis — using a needle under local anesthesia. The aspirate is then processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the stem cells into a smaller volume called bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC). Second, this concentrate is injected under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance directly into the affected joint, tendon, or tissue. The entire process usually takes 1–2 hours and is done on an outpatient basis.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients tolerate the procedure well at Advanced PainCare and BioHealth Institute. Local anesthesia is used at the harvest site (the hip/pelvis.) Mild soreness at the harvest site is common for a few days afterward. Moderate to severe pain occurs at the injection site for a few days as the stem cells trigger an intense reaction as they get to work. Oral pain relievers and heat are usually sufficient for managing post-procedure discomfort. Nitrous Oxide and oral analgesics can be offered to patients to control pain during the procedure.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients return to light daily activities within 1–3 days. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercise are typically restricted for 2–6 weeks to allow the cells time to engraft and begin their work. A structured physical therapy program is often recommended starting a few weeks after the procedure. Meaningful improvement in pain and function is generally noticed between 6 weeks and 6 months, though the full benefit may continue to develop over 12 months.

What are the risks and side effects?

Because the therapy uses your own cells (autologous), the risk of rejection or allergic reaction is very low. The most common side effects are temporary pain and swelling at the injection and harvest sites. Rare risks include infection, nerve irritation near the harvest site, and a temporary flare of joint pain in the first few weeks (sometimes called a ‘stem cell flare’). As with any injection-based procedure, there is a small risk of bleeding or vascular injury. Serious adverse events are uncommon when the procedure is performed by an experienced practitioner.

What does the evidence say about its effectiveness?

The evidence base is growing but still maturing. Clinical studies — including randomized controlled trials — have shown that BMAC injections can reduce pain and improve function in knee and hip osteoarthritis, in ACL tears, in tendon tears, in rotator cuff and other shoulder pathologies. Results tend to be more favorable in earlier-stage disease and in younger, active patients. Outcomes can vary based on the severity of joint damage, the concentration of cells achieved, and individual biological factors.

How does BMAC therapy compare to PRP (platelet-rich plasma)?

Both PRP and BMAC are regenerative orthopedic treatments derived from the patient’s own blood or marrow, but they differ in composition and potency. PRP is drawn from a blood sample and is rich in growth factors and platelets, which stimulate healing. BMAC contains not only growth factors but also actual stem cells capable of differentiating into cartilage and other tissues, as well as a broader array of regenerative cytokines. BMAC is generally considered a more potent — and more expensive — option. PRP is often used for earlier-stage or softer-tissue conditions, while BMAC may be preferred for more significant cartilage loss or structural damage.

Is bone marrow stem cell therapy covered by insurance?

In the United States, most patients typically pay out of pocket. The cost can range from approximately 3,000 to $10,000 or more per treatment, depending on the provider, location, and the complexity of the procedure. Advanced PainCare and BioHealth Institute offers financing options.

Who is a good candidate for this therapy?

Ideal candidates are patients with joint degeneration, tendon injuries, or cartilage damage who have not responded adequately to conservative treatments but wish to avoid or delay surgery. Patients with active joint infection, certain blood disorders, or active cancer are generally not candidates. A thorough evaluation including imaging (X-ray, MRI) and a clinical assessment by a qualified physician is necessary to determine if BMAC therapy is appropriate for your specific condition.

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