Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) Therapy:

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) therapy is a regenerative medicine treatment that uses a patient’s own bone marrow cells to promote healing and reduce pain in damaged or degenerative tissues. BMAC is rich in stem cells and growth factors, which aid in tissue repair and regeneration. This treatment is a natural approach to managing pain and can be effective for patients seeking non-surgical options to address joint or soft tissue issues.

What Conditions Can BMAC Therapy Help With?

BMAC therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, particularly those involving joint pain, soft tissue injuries, or degenerative conditions. Common conditions treated with BMAC include:

• Osteoarthritis (especially in the knee, hip, and shoulder)
• Joint injuries
• Tendon and ligament injuries (such as rotator cuff tears or Achilles tendonitis)
• Muscle injuries

The concentrated bone marrow cells can stimulate tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and potentially slow down degenerative changes in the affected area, leading to improved function and decreased pain.

Procedure Overview

The BMAC procedure is minimally invasive, typically performed in an outpatient setting, and takes about 1-2 hours, including preparation and recovery time.

Steps of BMAC Therapy

1. Bone Marrow Extraction

A small sample of bone marrow is taken from your pelvis (hip bone). Local anesthesia is applied to minimize discomfort, and a thin needle is used to draw out bone marrow. Most patients find this process tolerable, though some pressure may be felt at the site.

2. Processing the Bone Marrow

The bone marrow sample is placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins the bone marrow at high speed. This process separates and concentrates the stem cells, platelets, and other growth factors, creating the BMAC solution.

3. Preparation of the Injection Site

The area to be treated is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anesthetic may be applied to the skin to numb the injection site.

4. Injection of BMAC

Using imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy) if necessary, the physician injects the BMAC solution directly into the affected joint, tendon, ligament, or muscle. The concentrated cells in the BMAC solution are intended to stimulate tissue repair, promote healing, and reduce inflammation in the targeted area.

5. Post-Injection Monitoring

After the injection, you’ll be monitored for a short time to ensure you’re comfortable and there are no immediate side effects. Most patients feel only mild soreness at the injection site, which is normal.

When Can I Go Home?

Most patients can go home shortly after the procedure, typically within 15-30 minutes following the injection. BMAC therapy is minimally invasive, and patients can usually resume light activities the same day. However, it is generally recommended to avoid strenuous activities for 48-72 hours.

After the Procedure

• Pain Management: Mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site is normal and can last for a few days. Ice and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort, but avoid anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), as they may interfere with the healing process.
• Activity: Light activities are permitted, but avoid strenuous exercises, heavy lifting, and high-impact activities for 1-2 weeks. Your doctor may provide specific guidelines based on your condition and treatment site. A physical therapy or rehabilitation plan may also be recommended to support recovery.

Frequency of BMAC Therapy

The number of BMAC treatments needed depends on your condition, response to treatment, and severity of pain or injury:

• Single Injection: Many patients experience significant relief after one treatment, especially for mild to moderate injuries.
• Series of Injections: For more severe or chronic conditions, additional injections may be recommended, typically spaced several months apart. Your doctor will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Improvements from BMAC therapy are often gradual, with many patients noticing changes within several weeks. Full benefits may take up to several months as the cells work to repair the affected tissue.

Final Thoughts

BMAC therapy can provide significant pain relief and improve function for many patients, especially those with joint degeneration or soft tissue injuries. While BMAC is not a guaranteed cure and results vary, many patients experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and greater ease in daily activities. BMAC can be an excellent option for those seeking a natural, non-surgical approach to managing joint or soft tissue pain.

If you have any questions about your recovery or if you need further guidance after the procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our office.