By Dr. David Cruz, ND
If you’ve been searching for ways to manage pain without relying solely on medications or surgery, you’ve probably heard of regenerative medicine. But what exactly is it and can it help you?
What Is Regenerative Medicine?
Regenerative medicine is a cutting-edge field focused on developing therapies that help the body repair or replace damaged tissues and organs by activating its own healing processes. Unlike conventional treatments that primarily manage symptoms, regenerative medicine targets the root cause of injury or degeneration helping restore normal function where
possible.
At SculptMD, we use regenerative approaches to treat joint and extremity pain in areas like the wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, ankles, and even plantar fascia. While regenerative medicine includes a variety of techniques, our focus is on physical therapy devices like EmSculpt, therapeutic peptides, and biologic therapies such as PRP/PRF and mesenchymal stem cells.
Today, we’re diving deeper into PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) therapy, two of our most popular and effective regenerative treatments for joint pain.
PRP & PRF Therapy: Healing With Your Own Blood
How It Works
PRP and PRF therapy harness your body’s natural healing power by using a concentrated dose of your own platelets, tiny blood cells rich in growth factors, to stimulate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
The Process
1. A small sample of your blood is drawn.
2. The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins at high speed to separate its
components.
3. The platelet-rich portion is collected and concentrated this becomes your PRP or PRF.
4. The concentrated platelets are injected directly into the damaged joint or tissue.
Why Platelets?
Platelets release growth factors that encourage tissue regeneration and healing of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments—while also calming inflammation, one of the main culprits behind joint pain.
Potential Benefits
Patients who receive PRP/PRF injections often experience:
- Reduced pain
- Improved mobility & range of motion
- Faster healing compared to some conventional treatments
- Delay or avoidance of surgery in certain cases
PRP/PRF is minimally invasive, carries a low risk of complications, and typically requires only 1
to 3 treatment sessions for noticeable results.
Setting Expectations
While many studies support the effectiveness of PRP/PRF and stem cell therapies, results can vary. Some patients experience significant improvements, while others may notice more modest changes. That’s why it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether this treatment is right for your specific condition.
Our Comprehensive Pain Management Protocol
At SculptMD, we often combine PRP/PRF therapy with:
- Targeted peptides to enhance healing
- Physical therapy modalities such as EmSculpt Functional (Electromagnetic Wave + Radio Frequency)and EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) designed to activate motor nerves
This multi-approach strategy helps maximize treatment outcomes and improve overall function.
Considering PRP/PRF for Joint Pain?
If you’re curious about how PRP/PRF therapy could help you move and feel better, our team at SculptMD is here to guide you. We’ll evaluate your condition, explain your options, and design a plan tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your consultation.
—Dr. David Cruz, ND