At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we are committed to providing our San Francisco Bay Area patients with the most advanced and effective treatments available. One of the most exciting fields in orthopedics today is the use of biologics, also known as regenerative medicine. This innovative approach harnesses your body’s natural healing abilities to repair damaged tissues, reduce pain, and get you back to the activities you love.
This page will provide you with a comprehensive overview of biologics, written in an easy-to-understand format. We’ll explore what they are, what conditions they can treat, and what you can expect if you and your doctor decide that a biologic therapy is right for you.
Overview: What Are Biologics?
In simple terms, orthobiologics are substances that orthopedic surgeons use to help injuries heal more quickly. They are made from substances that are naturally found in your body. Think of them as a way to concentrate your body’s healing power and deliver it directly to the source of your pain or injury.
These treatments can be used to help heal a wide range of orthopedic problems, from arthritis and tendonitis to fractures and ligament tears. They can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with surgery to enhance the healing process.
The most common types of biologic therapies include:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This therapy uses a concentration of your own platelets, which are cells in your blood that are rich in growth factors. These growth factors play a crucial role in healing by stimulating tissue repair and reducing inflammation. To create PRP, we draw a small amount of your blood, spin it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, and then inject the concentrated platelets into the injured area.
- Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cells are special cells in your body that have the ability to develop into many different types of cells. They can be harvested from your own bone marrow or fat tissue. When injected into an injured area, they can help to regenerate damaged cartilage, tendons, and other tissues. (deleted because we don’t offer this)
- Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC): This is a type of stem cell therapy that uses a concentrate of the regenerative cells found in your bone marrow. These cells are known for their ability to decrease inflammation, improve circulation, and promote the growth of healthy new tissues.
- Allografts: In some cases, biologic materials may be sourced from a donor. These tissues are carefully screened and processed to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Common Symptoms and Causes of Conditions Treated with Biologics
Biologic therapies can be used to treat a wide variety of orthopedic conditions. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, a biologic treatment may be an option for you:
- Joint Pain: This can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. It may be worse with activity and may be accompanied by stiffness and swelling. Joint pain is a common symptom of osteoarthritis, a condition where the protective cartilage in your joints wears down over time.
- Tendon and Ligament Pain: You may experience pain, tenderness, and weakness in the affected area. This can be caused by overuse, injury, or age-related degeneration. Common conditions that affect tendons and ligaments include tendinitis, tendon tears, and ligament sprains.
- Muscle Injuries: Biologics can be used to help heal acute muscle injuries, such as strains and tears. Symptoms of a muscle injury include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected muscle.
- Fractures: In some cases, biologics can be used to help promote healing in fractures that are slow to heal on their own.
Common Risk Factors for Orthopedic Conditions
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing an orthopedic condition that may be treated with biologics. These include:
- Age: As we get older, our bodies become more susceptible to wear and tear. This can lead to conditions such as osteoarthritis and tendonitis.
- Genetics: Some orthopedic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, have a genetic component. This means that if you have a family history of the condition, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.
- Overuse: Repetitive motions can put stress on your joints, tendons, and ligaments, leading to injury. This is common in athletes and people who have physically demanding jobs.
- Injury: A previous injury can make you more susceptible to developing an orthopedic condition in the future.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put extra stress on your joints, increasing your risk of developing osteoarthritis and other conditions.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After a Biologic Procedure
If you and your doctor at California Pacific Orthopaedics decide that a biologic therapy is right for you, here is what you can generally expect:
Before the Procedure
Before your procedure, you will have a thorough consultation with your doctor. They will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a better look at the affected area.
You will also be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your procedure. This may include stopping certain medications, such as blood thinners, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
During the Procedure
Most biologic procedures are performed in our office and take less than an hour. The procedure will vary depending on the type of biologic therapy you are receiving.
- For PRP and BMAC therapies, a small amount of your blood or bone marrow will be drawn. This will then be processed in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets or stem cells. The concentrated material will then be injected into the injured area. Your doctor may use ultrasound guidance to ensure that the injection is placed in the correct spot.
- For allograft therapies, the donor tissue will be prepared and then injected or surgically implanted into the injured area.
After the Procedure
After your procedure, you will be able to go home the same day. You may experience some mild pain and swelling at the injection site for a few days. You can use ice and over-the-counter pain relievers to manage these symptoms.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for the treated area. This may include limiting your activity for a period of time and participating in physical therapy to help you regain strength and flexibility.
It is important to remember that it can take several weeks or even months to see the full benefits of a biologic therapy. Be patient and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.
Is a Biologic Therapy Right for You?
Biologic therapies are a promising treatment option for a wide range of orthopedic conditions. However, they are not right for everyone. The best way to determine if a biologic therapy is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic specialists at California Pacific Orthopaedics.
We will take the time to understand your individual needs and goals and develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you. Contact us today to learn more about how biologics can help you get back to living a pain-free life.
