Regenerative medicine has opened new doors for people living with joint pain, arthritis, and sports injuries. Two of the most talked-about treatments are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC). Both use your body’s natural healing cells, but they work in different ways and are designed for different conditions.
At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics, patients receive expert evaluation and treatment from a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon near me. Dr. Swanson specializes in advanced orthobiologics, sports medicine, shoulder surgery, and knee surgery. If you are searching for orthobiologics near me or want trusted orthopedic doctors near me, our team can help you explore whether BMAC or PRP is right for you.
In this guide, we’ll explain the biological differences between PRP and BMAC, review the pros and cons of each, discuss the conditions they treat, and show how Dr. Swanson determines which approach may be right for you.
Key Biological Differences Between BMAC and PRP
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is made by drawing a small sample of your blood and spinning it in a centrifuge. This process concentrates platelets, which are rich in growth factors. These growth factors play a central role in tissue repair by signaling the body to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Source: Blood drawn from the patient’s arm.
- Focus: Platelets and growth factors.
- Action: Stimulates repair, reduces inflammation, and may improve circulation at the injury site.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
BMAC is created by taking a sample of bone marrow, usually from the pelvic bone. This sample is processed to concentrate mesenchymal stem cells, growth factors, and proteins that support the regeneration of bone, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
- Source: Bone marrow drawn from the hip bone.
- Focus: Stem cells, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory proteins.
- Action: Supports tissue regeneration, structural repair, and long-term joint health.
Pros and Cons of Each Option
PRP Advantages
- Minimally invasive and quick (takes less than an hour).
- Works well for mild arthritis, tendonitis, and soft tissue injuries.
- Uses your own blood—low risk of reaction.
- Short recovery time.
PRP Limitations
- It may not be effective for severe or advanced joint damage.
- Multiple injections are sometimes needed.
- Results vary between patients.
BMAC Advantages
- Contains stem cells that may regenerate cartilage and bone.
- Helpful for more advanced arthritis or injuries that haven’t healed with other treatments.
- It may provide longer-lasting results than PRP in some cases.
- It can be used to support healing after surgery.
BMAC Limitations
- Slightly more invasive, as bone marrow must be extracted.
- Recovery may take a bit longer than with PRP.
- Not always necessary for mild conditions.
Common Conditions Treated by Each Therapy
PRP Is Often Used For:
- Early to moderate osteoarthritis in the knee, hip, or shoulder.
- Chronic tendonitis (e.g., tennis elbow, rotator cuff tendonitis).
- Mild ligament injuries and sports-related soft tissue problems.
- Support during recovery after orthopedic surgery.
BMAC Is Often Used For:
- Moderate to advanced arthritis with cartilage loss.
- Partial tendon tears or stubborn ligament injuries.
- Cartilage damage that limits mobility.
- Sports injuries that require a more regenerative approach.
- Enhancing recovery after joint or tendon surgery.
Both therapies may be combined in certain cases, as some research suggests PRP and BMAC together may offer synergistic healing benefits.
How Dr. Swanson Determines Which Is Appropriate
Choosing between PRP and BMAC isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. At Dr. Swanson’s clinics, each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation that includes:
- Review of medical history to understand prior injuries, treatments, and goals.
- Physical examination to assess pain, function, and stability.
- Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs to evaluate joint or tissue damage.
Based on these findings, Dr. Swanson recommends the therapy that offers the best chance of symptom relief and long-term function. For example, a younger athlete with tendonitis may benefit from PRP, while a patient with moderate arthritis might achieve better results with BMAC.
Choosing the Right Regenerative Option
Both PRP and BMAC are exciting orthobiologic treatments that use your body’s natural healing tools. PRP is often ideal for milder injuries and early arthritis, while BMAC may be better suited for more advanced conditions. At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics, patients benefit from expert guidance, advanced techniques, and a personalized approach to care.
To explore whether PRP or BMAC is right for you, call (904) 634-0640 or schedule your appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHICH LASTS LONGER, PRP OR BMAC?
BMAC often provides longer-lasting effects because it contains stem cells, while PRP may require repeat sessions.
IS ONE SAFER THAN THE OTHER?
Both are considered safe since they use your own cells. Risks are minimal and usually limited to temporary soreness or swelling.
WILL I STILL NEED SURGERY LATER?
Possibly. PRP and BMAC may delay or reduce the need for surgery, but advanced conditions may eventually require joint replacement.
HOW SOON WILL I SEE RESULTS?
PRP can start showing effects in 4–6 weeks, while BMAC may take several months as tissues regenerate.
DOES INSURANCE COVER THESE TREATMENTS?
Coverage varies. Many insurers still classify orthobiologics as experimental, so costs are reviewed before treatment.
