For many people living with arthritis, tendon injuries, or joint pain, surgery can feel like the only long-term solution. But not everyone is ready—or needs—to take that step right away. Orthobiologic treatments provide a means to harness your body’s natural healing processes, managing pain and enhancing function before surgery becomes necessary.
At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics in Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Johns, and Northside, patients have access to advanced regenerative therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC). As a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon near me with extensive expertise in sports medicine, Dr. Swanson provides patient-centered care designed to restore mobility and reduce pain.
In this guide, we’ll explain how orthobiologics work, why they may delay surgery, who can benefit most, and what results to expect.
How Orthobiologics Support Healing
Orthobiologics are treatments that use your body’s own cells and growth factors to stimulate tissue repair. Instead of masking pain with medication or replacing damaged tissue with implants, these therapies encourage your body to heal itself.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Derived from your blood, PRP is rich in platelets and growth factors that reduce inflammation and stimulate repair. It’s often used for tendon injuries, early arthritis, and muscle strains.
- Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC): Collected from bone marrow, BMAC contains stem cells and growth factors that may regenerate cartilage, bone, and tendon tissue. It’s typically reserved for more complex conditions such as moderate arthritis or cartilage damage.
These injections are performed with image guidance to ensure precision, making them safe, targeted, and minimally invasive.
Why Orthobiologics May Delay or Avoid Surgery
Orthobiologics are not a replacement for every surgery, but they can be a bridge between conservative care and more invasive procedures. Patients who choose these therapies may experience:
- Pain relief without implants: PRP and BMAC can calm inflammation in joints and soft tissues.
- Improved function: Regenerative cells promote the growth of stronger, more resilient tissue.
- Extended joint lifespan: By supporting healing, orthobiologics may delay the need for joint replacement.
- Fewer complications: Since treatments use your own cells, risks are minimal compared to surgery.
For those seeking orthobiologics near them as an alternative, these treatments offer hope for staying active and independent for longer.
When Is the Right Time to Try Orthobiologics?
Timing is important. Orthobiologics are most effective when tissue damage is mild to moderate, before the joint or tendon is severely worn down. They are often recommended when:
- Pain has lasted longer than three months despite rest or therapy.
- Daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or reaching overhead are limited.
- You want to postpone or avoid joint replacement surgery.
- Conservative treatments like physical therapy and NSAIDs no longer provide relief.
An evaluation with orthopedic doctors near me can help determine whether PRP or BMAC is appropriate based on your condition and lifestyle goals.
What to Expect From the Results
Patients considering orthobiologics should know these therapies work gradually. Unlike surgery, which produces an immediate structural change, regenerative treatments take time to stimulate healing.
- PRP results: Improvement often appears within 2–6 weeks, with continued progress over several months.
- BMAC results: May take longer but often provide longer-lasting benefits, especially for complex injuries.
- Recovery: Most patients return to normal activity within days, with only minor soreness at the injection site.
- Longevity: Benefits vary, but many patients experience meaningful relief, allowing them to stay active and potentially delay surgical intervention.
Close follow-up with your orthopedic provider ensures treatment plans can be adjusted for maximum effectiveness.
Taking the Next Step Toward Healing
Surgery isn’t the only solution for joint pain or injuries. Orthobiologics like PRP and BMAC provide a natural, minimally invasive way to reduce pain, improve function, and possibly delay surgery. At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics in Jacksonville, Fleming Island, St. Johns, and Northside, patients receive advanced care guided by a trusted, double board-certified orthopedic surgeon.
If you’re ready to explore regenerative medicine as your next step, call (904) 634-0640 or schedule your appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthobiologics
Are orthobiologics safe?
Yes. Since PRP and BMAC use your own cells, the risk of rejection or reaction is very low.
How many treatments will I need?
It depends on your condition. Some patients improve after one session; others may need repeat injections.
Can orthobiologics cure arthritis?
They don’t cure arthritis, but can reduce pain, improve function, and slow disease progression.
Is recovery time long?
No. Most patients resume daily activities quickly, with only minor restrictions.
Do insurance plans cover these treatments?
Coverage varies. Many plans do not cover regenerative therapies, but costs are discussed before treatment.
