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Regenerative Medicine and Orthobiologic Therapies

 Do you have nagging pain from tennis elbow, knee osteoarthritis or another joint or tendon injury that’s slowing you down? If so, regenerative medicine or orthobiologic therapies may offer the alternatives to surgery you’re looking for.

What is regenerative medicine and how does it work?

Regenerative medicine is a growing field that uses your body’s natural healing abilities to repair damaged tissue. Orthobiologic therapies are a specific type of regenerative medicine treatment focused on orthopedic (joint and muscle) conditions. These treatments aim to stimulate the healing process, reduce pain and restore function—offering alternatives to surgery.

Common types of orthobiologics include:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
  • Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC)

These innovative approaches can be effective for sports injuries, arthritis and tendon conditions.

How do orthobiologic therapies support healing?

Orthobiologic therapies use substances naturally found in the body - like growth factors and specialized cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue - to help heal damaged tissue. Treatments like PRP injections and bone marrow aspirate concentrate BMAC can stimulate healing and promote faster recovery.

These therapies are often minimally invasive, providing a way to avoid or delay more extensive surgical procedures.

Stem cells in regenerative medicine: What to know

In orthopedics, stem cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue act as messengers, signaling the body to repair damaged tissue. They don’t directly create new tissue but release important growth factors to guide healing.

While stem cell-based therapies show promise, outcomes can vary. Some people may still need lifestyle changes or surgery later. Ongoing clinical trials are helping to expand what we know about these treatments.

Benefits of regenerative medicine at Banner Health 

At Banner Sports Medicine, we deliver advanced regenerative medicine treatment options backed by research and innovation. Our team includes sports medicine doctors and orthopedic surgeons who tailor care to your needs.

We offer:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
  • Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) therapy
  • Minimally invasive procedures like Tenex and TenJet 

Our experts combine experience with evidence from ongoing clinical trials to offer you the best care available.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A natural way to heal

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made from your own blood and is packed with growth factors that promote healing. Here’s how PRP works: 

  • Blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate platelets and growth factors. 
  • These healing components are injected into the injured area using ultrasound guidance.
  • PRP injections help the body heal naturally, with results often appearing 4–10 weeks after treatment. 

PRP is a minimally invasive option that works well for conditions like tennis elbow and knee osteoarthritis. It’s commonly paired with physical therapy to support the healing process. While PRP isn’t covered by insurance, it’s available at many of our Banner Sports Medicine and orthopedic clinics. Contact us to find a location near you. 

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC): Longer-lasting relief

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) therapy collects cells from your own bone marrow to treat injuries. These cells release growth factors that support tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

BMAC therapy is used for:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Joint injuries
  • Tendon conditions

The procedure is minimally invasive and often provides relief in about six weeks, with peak results around three months. 

BMAC is one of the advanced regenerative therapies offered at Banner Health. While BMAC is not currently covered by insurance, it can provide lasting relief. 

Minimally invasive options: Tenex and TenJet

Tenex: Ultrasound-guided tendon repair

Tenex is a minimally invasive procedure that removes damaged tissue from tendons without surgery. Using ultrasound guidance, the Tenex device targets unhealthy tissue, allowing for a faster recovery.

TenJet: High-pressure fluid treatment for tendon pain

TenJet is another minimally invasive option that uses high-pressure fluid jets to remove damaged tissue. 

Tenex and TenJet are ideal for treating:

  • Tennis elbow
  • Tendon pain in the knee, ankle or shoulder
  • Chronic tendon injuries
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Rotator cuff injuries

These procedures offer a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery and are an excellent alternative to surgery for many patients.

Explore your treatment options today

If joint or tendon pain is keeping you from your favorite activities, it may be time to explore regenerative therapies. Our orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine experts at Banner Health are here to help with:

  • PRP injections
  • BMAC therapy
  • Minimally invasive treatments like Tenex and TenJet

Take the next step toward feeling better. Call (602) 521-3250 to schedule your appointment and learn more about the orthobiologic therapies available near you.