Regenerative Therapy: Questions You Should Ask Your Physician
So, you’re still trying to decide if regenerative therapy is right for you. The first step in the decision should be visiting a physician and asking the important questions. You may be entering this process not knowing what questions to ask. Below are some of the most common questions you should bring up to your potential physician and some brief, general answers as to what to expect.
Am I a candidate for regenerative therapy?
This depends on the condition being treated, the general health of the patient, its worth of investment (most insurance doesn’t cover regenerative therapies) and other factors. If you had surgery but are still experiencing pain, you may still benefit from these treatments.
What should I expect on the day of the procedure?
Please stay hydrated the day of your procedure. Come with someone so you have a ride home. Depending on the procedure, you may be given medications to relax you. Bring headphones and music/podcasts that you enjoy for the procedure. Local anesthetics will be administered. The exact length of the procedure will depend on the type of procedure you’re scheduled to have and the condition you are being treated for. That said, all treatments are performed in patient and generally take an hour or less.
What are the chances of the procedure working?
“Our procedure has been shown to be 86 percent successful in alleviating pain associated with joint and knee pain,” says the Q&A for Northeast Knee & Joint Institute. That of course leaves room for patients who do not get their desired results. The severity of the conditions, contractures and other deformities can affect results of the treatment. Patients who attend physical therapy in addition to the regenerative treatment see greater success rate.
How long does it take to take effect?
Some patients see improvement within several weeks after the first injection and can resume regular activities. However, some conditions may take more time. In general, pain relief from regenerative treatment will take 6-12 weeks. The recovery time depends on many variables with each patient, and the specific treatment offered. Treatment conditions may be reassessed weekly or monthly.
Are there medications I should be taking or not be taking?
You should not be taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and blood thinners while undergoing this treatment. Aspirin also limits the effectiveness of the treatment. Exceptions can be made in certain situations. Discuss with your physician if you are taking steroids, statins, blood pressure, or reflux medications
What are the risks of the procedures?
The MSC/stem cells or platelet rich plasma are taken directly from your own body, so the risks of the procedure are minimal when compared to surgery. You may experience some bleeding, pain, tissue damage, soreness, or no response to the surgery. Infection rates are low. With the right physician who follows all the standard practices of sterility and safety, you should experience a good outcome.
Do I need rehab after the injection?
Patients who attend rehab see better outcomes than patients who don’t. Your physician will likely prescribe regular therapy sessions for you after your treatment.
Asking the right questions will not only help you understand what you can expect from your regenerative therapy, it will also, hopefully, set your mind at ease and help you make the best decisions for your health. As always when you’re approaching a medical decision for yourself or for a loved one, being armed with the best information helps you make the right decision and choose the right practitioner. Ask always, ask often, and don’t accept answers that don’t satisfy you.
1 Regenerative Medicine FAQs.” Northeast Knee & Joint Institute. Accessed: 30 Aug. 2021. https://nkjinstitute.com/regenerative-medicine-faqs/