It was only a few years ago that star athletes would receive stem cell and PRP treatments in the dark of night, often traveling to Europe and other countries to secretly undergo treatments considered unconventional to the public. A great deal has changed in the past five years, and stem cell therapy is now emerging from the shadows and being embraced by high profile athletes eager to heal their bodies naturally and improve their chances of athletic longevity.
Why Stem Cells?
Stem cells are specialized cells in the body that don’t have a specific role until it is assigned. This means that stem cells can transform into the exact type of cell that the body needs the most. For athletes, this often means cartilage, muscle, and bone cells. Orthopedic doctors who practice generative medicine, such as the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute in Tampa, Florida, obtain stem cells from bone marrow and other sources within the body, process them, and reinject them into the site of the injury to trigger natural healing within the body. As the stem cells transform into their new type of cell, they can regenerate and rejuvenate the body in order to heal the source of injury or pain.
Stars Using Stem Cells
NFL running back Chris Johnson, who quickly drew attention to his explosive playing style, tore the meniscus in his knee during week 3 of the 2013 season, yet didn’t miss an entire game all season. Playing constantly with his injury caused extensive wear and tear to his knee, and Johnson ultimately lost a large portion of his cartilage. Johnson opted to supplement his meniscus repair surgery with an injection of stem cells derived from his bone marrow. The stem cells were injected directly into his knee joint after his arthroscopic repair was completed. After a cautious recovery period, Johnson went on to sign a three-year contract with the New York Jets and finish the 2014 season with 153 carries for 663 yards. Clearly, the stem cells did their job!
Johnson is just one of hundreds of athletic stars realizing the power of regenerative medicine like stem cell injections. San Antonio Spurs player Pau Gasol Saez, tennis player Rafael Nadal, and pitcher Bartolo Colon have also experienced success with stem cell treatment. This is exactly why the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute in Tampa, Florida specializes in stem cell treatments for joints and the spine. Whether you’re a professional athlete or weekend warrior, the Regenerative Orthopedic Institute can help you heal your body the natural way. Give them a call today at 813-868-1659.