What are regnerative medicine cells?
Regnerative medicine cells are special cells found in our body that can transform into any type of cell found in our body. They seek out areas of injury, disease, and destruction where they are capable of regenerating new, healthy cells which is why we use them in regenerative medicine to accelerate the natural healing process. Regnerative medicine cells have been especially effective in healing degenerative joint conditions including but not limited to ligament, tendon, cartilage or muscle tissues.
Where do regnerative medicine cells come from?
Regnerative medicine cells used by Dr. Richter are extracted from donated umbilical cords and cord blood. These cells are ethically harvested from volunteer donors after the birth of their baby using the umbilical cord that would be discarded after the birth.
How does the procedure work?
The procedure is straight-forward, quick, and easy. You are examined by Dr. Richter prior to the injection appointment. Once it is agreed that a therapy injection would be the best option, an appointment will be scheduled. On the date of the appointment, you will come in and the area will be prepped, cleaned, anesthetized, then injected. This process should take 15-20 minutes. Some may require an addition of intravenous regnerative medicine cells to be added to their procedure depending on the condition. For some conditions intravenous regnerative medicine cells may only be used. This will be decided between you and Dr. Richter at your consultation.
Can my body reject the regnerative medicine cells?
With umbilical cord cells there is no chance for rejection or other adverse events. The body’s immune system is unable to recognize umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal regnerative medicine cells as foreign and therefore they are not rejected. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal regnerative medicine cells also proliferate/differentiate more efficiently than “older” cells, such as those found in the fat and therefore, they are considered to be more “potent”
Is the injection painful?
After the injection you may experience a little soreness. Resting the area, reducing activity, and icing following the injection can help with any injection related soreness. You and Dr. Richter will discuss your long term recovery plan that is based on what is best for you individually. Once the treatment starts to take effect, a reduction in pain and increase in function would be expected, but not guaranteed.
How long does it take to work?
It can take a few months to begin to see the benefits. It is important to rest the area for best results. This may require discontinuing strenuous activities during the recovery time.