Frequently Asked Questions
We accept referrals from primary care providers and specialists. You may also refer yourself, although we require that every patient have a primary care provider.
In most circumstances, we will review your medical records, imaging, and diagnostic testing before deciding if you are a candidate to be evaluated at Biologic Spine Therapy.
There are many reasons why pain may develop, and getting the most effective treatment starts with finding the most accurate diagnosis of the root cause of your pain. This is why our team places so much emphasis on diagnosis.
- I’m numb and weak. This is likely a result of the use of sedation or local anesthetic and will slowly wear off over the next 24 hours. If you have increasing numbness or weakness following a procedure, call our office.
- I’m experiencing increased pain. A pain flare-up can occur following any procedure due to irritation of the treated tissues. Conservative treatment with rest, ice, NSAIDs, and prescribed pain medication will usually resolve the episode in 24-72 hours. If these treatments are not effective, contact our office.
The Discseel® Procedure FAQs
The Discseel® Procedure consists of highly purified and exact parts of fibrinogen and prothrombin, the two essential blood proteins involved in tissue healing. We also introduce an antibiotic into the disc to eliminate infection risk.
Any person with long-lasting lower back pain is a potential candidate. Both patients who have had surgery and prefer to avoid surgery are potential candidates.
The Discseel® Procedure is not currently covered by insurance.
Based on preliminary data we have collected thus far, we know that roughly 70% of patients treated with the Discseel® Procedure reported a better outcome in their condition and a positive reduction in pain and function. Keep in mind that these are patients who have failed either all or most other treatment options. “Better” is defined as improvement in both function and in pain and symptoms.
This was tested and there was a concern that simultaneous treatment was weakening the Fibrin. This has lead to to the recommendation to delay 4 weeks. There is no science yet that demonstrates improved outcomes at this time. I recommend considering this additional treatment at 12 weeks if benefit is not yet evident.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection FAQs
Platelet-Rich Plasma injections contain a concentration of platelets, growth factors, cellular signaling factors, and plasma proteins that work together to stimulate tissue growth and help your body heal. PRP works by directly delivering these growth factors to damaged areas of your body that have trouble healing on their own. This stimulates your body’s natural healing responses to restore your health.
PRP injections are performed using your own blood. After a sample is obtained from you, your blood will be placed into a centrifuge, which will separate it into platelet-rich plasma. The PRP is then injected into the damaged area using ultrasound guidance for precise placement. This entire process typically takes no longer than 20-30 minutes. You may experience soreness at the injection site which may last for a few days. Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities immediately after PRP injection.
PRP injections are a very low-risk treatment that typically do not cause major side effects. However, PRP does involve a blood draw, so it’s important to hydrate and eat before the procedure to avoid any lightheadedness. Some patients experience soreness and bruising at the injection site. PRP injections use your own cells and plasma, making the risk of an allergic reaction and other complications very low.
Every patient is different, but patients typically experience significant relief from their pain after their first injection. Depending on your unique condition, you may require additional injections. Our team will work with you to determine what the right treatment plan is for your needs.
This procedure typically takes less than an hour.
Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMC) FAQs
BMC is a concentration of stem cells obtained from sample of your bone marrow that have the potential to grow into different types of cells. When injected into damaged areas, these cells can potentially differentiate to heal damaged cartilage, bone, muscle and tendons.
Bone marrow aspirate is collected from the patient using a minimally invasive method that only requires local anesthesia and sedation. The aspirate is then processed using a centrifuge to separate the components and create bone marrow concentrate. Once this is done, it is injected into the damaged area using ultrasound or X-ray guidance for precise placement. You may experience soreness at the injection site which may last for a few days.
BMC injections are a very low-risk treatment that typically do not cause major side effects. Some patients may experience soreness and bruising at the injection site. BMC injections use a bone marrow aspirate taken from your own body, making the risk of an allergic reaction or other complications very low.
Every patient is different, but patients typically experience significant relief from their pain after their first injection. Depending on your unique condition, you may require additional injections. Our team will work with you to determine what the right treatment plan is for your needs.