Discogenic back pain, originating from the intervertebral discs, is a common yet debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments often focus on symptom management rather than addressing the underlying cause. However, advances in regenerative medicine have introduced biologic injections, such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC), as promising alternatives. At FullRange Spine & Ortho, we specialize in these innovative treatments that not only alleviate pain but also promote the healing and regeneration of damaged discs.
Understanding Discogenic Back Pain
Discogenic back pain is caused by the degeneration or injury of intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae. These discs can become damaged due to aging, trauma, or degenerative diseases, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Symptoms often include chronic lower back pain, pain that radiates to the legs, and discomfort during activities involving bending or twisting.
How Biologic Injections Work
Biologic injections leverage the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and slow degeneration. Two of the most effective biologic treatments for discogenic back pain are Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC).
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy involves concentrating platelets from the patient’s own blood and injecting them into the affected area. Platelets are rich in growth factors and cytokines, which play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration.
- Repair Damaged Discs: The growth factors in PRP stimulate the repair of damaged disc tissues by promoting cell proliferation and collagen synthesis. This can help restore the structural integrity of the discs.
- Reduce Inflammation: PRP has anti-inflammatory properties that help decrease inflammation around the damaged discs, thereby reducing pain and swelling.
- Slow Degeneration: By enhancing the healing process, PRP can slow down the degenerative changes in the discs, potentially preventing further damage and deterioration.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
BMAC involves extracting bone marrow from the patient, typically from the pelvis, and concentrating the stem cells and growth factors it contains. This concentrate is then injected into the damaged discs.
- Stem Cell Regeneration: The stem cells in BMAC have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including those that make up disc tissues. This helps regenerate damaged discs and improve their function.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: BMAC also contains anti-inflammatory agents that help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area.
- Decelerate Degeneration: BMAC’s regenerative properties can slow the degenerative process, preserving disc health and function over time.
Benefits of Biologic Injections
Biologic injections are minimally invasive compared to traditional surgical interventions. They involve simple procedures that can be performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal downtime and recovery.
These treatments utilize the body’s natural healing capabilities, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and complications associated with synthetic drugs and implants. By addressing the root cause of discogenic pain, biologic injections provide long-lasting relief, improving quality of life and enabling patients to return to their daily activities with greater ease.
The Procedure at FullRange Spine & Ortho
At FullRange Spine & Ortho, we begin with a comprehensive assessment to determine the suitability of PRP or BMAC for each patient. For PRP, a small amount of the patient’s blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into the damaged disc. For BMAC, bone marrow is aspirated, concentrated, and similarly injected. The entire process is performed under sterile conditions with image guidance for accuracy. Our experienced specialists use advanced imaging techniques to guide the precise injection of biologic materials into the damaged discs.
Biologic injections, including PRP and BMAC, represent a cutting-edge approach to treating discogenic back pain. These treatments offer a promising alternative to traditional therapies by harnessing the body’s natural healing properties. At FullRange Spine & Ortho, we are committed to providing innovative and effective solutions to help our patients overcome back pain and improve their quality of life. If you are struggling with discogenic back pain, contact us today at one of our locations in the greater Los Angeles, CA, area to explore how biologic injections can help you achieve lasting relief and recovery.
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho