FAQs
Our practice focuses on both stem cell and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies. A growing body of research and trial results show promising results for these alternative approaches in the relief of back and joint pain—for the right patients. Key to that success is carefully screening you for the appropriateness of the treatment for your specific situation. If you are generally in good health with chronic spine, joint, or ligament pain caused by damage within certain thresholds, you may benefit from these therapies.
Stem cells, your body's core building and rebuilding materials, are used to generate new blood, brain, and bone cells. Few other cells in the body have this natural property.
Platelets, or thrombocytes, are a component of your blood that supports re-growth and healing functions. With platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, we use your own platelets for the healing of your injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints.
A primary advantage of PRP therapy is that it can reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medications and opioids. Also, because the therapy is based on a solution of your own concentrated cells, side effects and rejection can be limited.
Insurance will generally not cover the injection therapies we specialize in. This is a pain-relief approach you will commit to after thoroughly considering the growing body of fact and personal experience available, including the personal referrals of our own patients.
"Lil bit.," but you will receive an effective local anesthesia to reduce discomfort during these minimally invasive procedures.
About the Procedure
Of course not. These biologic therapies show promise in the small and rapidly growing body of scientific data. We are focused on treating patients who we think have the best chances for success, patients who are in good health who suffer from chronic pain caused by damaged or degenerated musculoskeletal tissues. We do not treat systemic diseases with these therapies.
While there are few risks with these therapies, you are certain to be sore for a few days after the procedure. Infection is a risk, but it is extremely rare. Regenerative injection therapy and adult stem cell therapy are conservative approaches, unlike surgery where the risks can be much greater.
Dr. McLaughlin uses imaging for the procedures he performs, including X-ray and ultrasound.
Typically, patients notice improvement after two to eight weeks and continue to notice improvement months after the treatment. This is unlike a steroid injection where the improvement typically lasts a few weeks or months.
After the procedures, you will experience some soreness, especially after disc, hand, foot, and shoulder injections. Over-the-counter medications and rest are usually sufficient to alleviate the pain.
About Dr. McLaughlin
Dr. McLaughlin is a fellowship trained physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. He specializes in non-surgical treatments of the spine, including PRP (platelet rich plasma) and stem cell therapies. Dr. McLaughlin graduated from the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He completed his residency at University of Utah and his fellowship at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado.
None. Overall, our patients are very satisfied with the results of these orthobiologic therapies, but we do not help everyone. Our experience is that your overall health is the best predictor of positive results. Likewise, If you are a smoker, heavy drinker, have uncontrolled hypertension, etcetera, positive results are less likely.
No magic formula, but it works: regular exercise, good eating, enough sleep, happy relationships, no smoking, and very little alcohol.
We are ready to answer all your questions; call or email us anytime: 970-382-8292, info@durangostemcell.com.