Common Questions
Do regenerative medicine injections hurt?
Most patients tolerate regenerative medicine injections well. You may feel pressure, a pinch, or temporary discomfort during the injection. Depending on the procedure, the area may be numbed beforehand to make the treatment more comfortable. Some soreness, swelling, or bruised feeling can happen after the injection and usually improves over the next few days. PRP and similar autologous procedures use material from your own body, but injection-related risks such as soreness, bleeding, or infection are still possible.
How long does it take to see results from regenerative medicine treatments?
Results are usually gradual, not immediate. Some patients begin noticing improvement within a few weeks, but deeper healing and functional improvement may continue over several months. The timeline depends on the condition being treated, severity of tissue damage, age, activity level, and the type of regenerative treatment used.
How long do regenerative medicine results usually last?
Results vary from patient to patient. Some patients may notice improvement for several months, while others may experience relief for a year or longer. The duration of improvement can depend on many factors, including the severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, activity level, and adherence to post-procedure care instructions. For conditions such as knee osteoarthritis, some studies have reported that patients treated with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may experience pain relief for approximately 6 to 12 months. However, individual results vary, and no regenerative medicine treatment can guarantee a specific level or duration of pain relief or functional improvement.
Can regenerative medicine help me avoid surgery?
In some cases, yes, regenerative medicine may help some patients avoid or delay surgery, depending on their diagnosis and severity. However, patients with advanced arthritis, severe structural damage, major instability, or complete tears may still need surgical evaluation.
Is regenerative medicine covered by insurance?
Usually, no. Most regenerative medicine treatments, including PRP and bone marrow concentrate procedures, are considered self-pay because many insurance companies classify them as investigational or not covered for orthopedic conditions. However, an evaluation with our staff to determine your treatment options can be billed to your insurance.
Will I need an MRI or Xray before a regenerative medicine procedure?
Not always. Some patients only need a physical exam and X-rays, especially for arthritis-related joint pain. Others may need an MRI if there is concern for a tendon tear, ligament injury, meniscus tear, disc issue, or another structural problem. Imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and allows the provider to determine whether regenerative medicine is appropriate. For many procedures, ultrasound or X-ray guidance may also be used to place the injection accurately.
How much downtime should I expect from a regenerative medicine procedure?
Our regenerative medicine procedures are outpatient procedures, meaning you go home the same day. Many patients return to light daily activities within a day or two, but exercise, heavy lifting, running, or sports may be restricted for a period of time depending on the area treated. Mild soreness after treatment is common and can last a few days. Regenerative medicine treatments commonly cause temporary swelling and pain at first because it stimulates an inflammatory healing response.
Do I need physical therapy after a regenerative medicine treatment?
Many patients benefit from physical therapy or a guided home exercise program after treatment. Regenerative medicine may help reduce pain and support the healing environment, but strengthening, mobility, posture, balance, and movement mechanics are also important for long-term results. Your provider will recommend the right rehab plan based on your diagnosis, the procedure performed, and your activity goals.
How much do regenerative medicine treatments cost?
The cost depends on the type of treatment, the body area being treated, the number of areas treated, whether image guidance is needed, and whether the treatment involves PRP, bone marrow concentrate, shockwave, laser, EMTT, or a combination plan.
Because these treatments are usually not covered by insurance, the exact cost is reviewed before treatment so you can make an informed decision. Regenerative medicine can be relatively expensive because every patient’s situation and treatment plan are different. However, treatments typically range between $1,000 and $5,000+.
Do you offer payment plans or financing
Yes. We offer payment options and financing plans through Affirm and Care Credit. For qualified patients, you can choose a treatment plan that fits your health goals and budget. Our team will review available options with you before treatment.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for regenerative medicine?
Yes. Many regenerative medicine treatments qualify for HSA and FSA funds, making them more affordable for patients with these accounts. However, eligibility depends on your plan and the reason for treatment.
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