These advancements include a variety of cutting- edge treatments that harness the biologic healing powers of human cells to treat orthopedic conditions.
Understanding Orthobiologics
Orthobiologics, also known as orthopedic regenerative medicine, is a rapidly advancing field of medicine that uses natural, tissue-derived compounds to treat acute injuries and chronic or degenerative conditions affecting the muscles, bones, joints, and soft tissues. These treatments can reduce inflammation; relieve pain; promote healing after injury or surgery; and improve joint function. Orthobiologics can be administered on their own, or, more commonly, used in conjunction with physical therapy, pain management techniques, or during surgery.
How It Works
Orthobiologics work by extracting healthy platelets and/or bone marrow that contain growth factors – naturally occurring proteins that stimulate growth and healing – and other anti-inflammatory agents from a patient’s body and injecting them into the affected area. These procedures are minimally invasive and patients typically experience results within 4-6 weeks of treatment.
Common Orthobiologic Procedures
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
The patient’s peripheral blood is drawn and then spun in a centrifuge to separate it into layers. The PRP layer that is rich with growth factors and platelets is extracted and reintroduced into the joint.
Bone Marrow Aspirate
Bone marrow fluid, called aspirate, is extracted from a healthy bone in the patient’s body and placed in a centrifuge to generate a concentration of powerful cells. These are then reintroduced into the joint to stimulate regeneration and encourage healing.
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. Since joining CMC Publications as editor, Rachel has assumed the role of managing editor, where she is responsible for the annual development and completion of seventeen publications involving health, wellness, and lifestyles articles that are published in print and online for HealthScope, CityScope, and Choose Chattanooga magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
