If you haven’t heard of it before, you’re probably wondering what regenerative cell therapy is and what it can treat. Regenerative medicine is a popular branch of medicine that involves replacing old and damaged cells with new, healthy ones. This happens through the use of stem cells, the body’s most basic form of cells.
With regenerative cell therapy, stem cells can be taken from your fat or bone marrow, or through umbilical cord tissue of healthy newborns through a safe and painless procedure. Researchers and doctors have an interest in stem cell research to better understand how diseases occur and how regenerative medicine can help repair diseased or damaged tissues in humans.
If you have scheduled your first appointment for regenerative cell therapy, you probably have questions. Here’s what you can expect.
Thorough Assessment
At your first appointment, your doctor will take a thorough record of your medical history, as well as your current symptoms. They may ask you several questions to get to know your health better, such as:
- Are you taking any medications?
- Are you having pain or weakness in any areas of your body?
- Do you have any chronic medical conditions?
- Have you had any surgeries?
- Have you ever received regenerative cell therapy before?
- What are you currently doing to manage your pain/injury?
Based on your medical history and current symptoms, your doctor will decide if you are a candidate for the procedure. If you are a good candidate, your doctor will describe the procedure to you and get your consent for treatment. You can then schedule your appointment for the procedure. Keep in mind, that many insurance companies do not cover the cost of regenerative cell therapy, and you may have to pay out of pocket for the procedure.
Candidates For Regenerative Cell Therapy
Regenerative cell therapy can benefit many people, whether you are an athlete with an injury or someone who experiences pain from day-to-day activities. Generally, candidates for regenerative cell therapy include people with:
- Hip pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica or other conditions that cause back pain
- Knee injuries
- Ligament tears
- Moderate to severe osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis
Coming In For The Procedure
Regenerative cell therapy is done in an office setting and typically only takes about 30 minutes. Your doctor will administer an injection containing the new plasma or cells into the area of injury or pain. A local anesthetic is used to help minimize discomfort during the injection. You will be able to go home immediately after the procedure.
Most people will feel relief for several years following regenerative cell therapy, although it may take up to 6-8 weeks to start feeling the effects. About 85% of regenerative cell therapy procedures are effective, and it is unlikely that your body will reject the new cells.
You may experience mild soreness in the joint or tissue for up to a week after the injection. It’s okay to take anti-inflammatory medications, such as Advil or aspirin, during this time. Heavy physical activities should be avoided if you are experiencing soreness following the procedure.
Regenerative Cell Therapy in Dallas, TX
At Reagan Integrated Sport Medicine, we offer regenerative cell therapy along with other non-surgical options for treating musculoskeletal pain and injuries. Whether you are an athlete or someone who is physically active, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal outcomes, so your body can perform at its best.
If you have questions or would like to find out more about regenerative cell therapy, call us today at 972-503-7272. If you’d like to see one of our providers, fill out our convenient online appointment request form, and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. We look forward to serving you!
