What Is Regenerative Medicine? Your Guide to PRP, MFAT, and BMAC for Joint and Soft Tissue Pain

Many people are searching for natural, nonsurgical strategies to manage joint pain, soft tissue irritation, or early arthritis. Regenerative medicine, also known as orthobiologics, uses a patient’s own biologic materials to support the body’s natural healing processes and may help reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and delay more invasive procedures.

At Form and Function Orthopaedics, we offer a structured, evidence-informed approach to these treatments for active adults who want to preserve movement and maintain long-term joint health.

What Is Regenerative Medicine

Regenerative medicine refers to orthobiologic procedures that use autologous biologic materials, such as platelets, adipose tissue, or bone marrow, to support a healthier tissue environment. These treatments focus on regulating inflammation and improving biologic conditions that contribute to persistent pain.

They are not replacements for surgery when structural repair is necessary, but they can be considered for individuals who want to avoid or delay more invasive interventions.

Regenerative approaches are often discussed for:

• Knee, shoulder, or hip symptoms
• Rotator cuff and biceps irritation
• Plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis
• Mild to moderate cartilage wear
• Chronic soft tissue inflammation

Treatment plans are customized based on clinical examination, imaging, and functional goals.

Common Orthobiologic Options

1. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)

PRP uses a small sample of a patient’s blood that is processed to concentrate platelets. These platelets naturally contain biologic signaling molecules that help regulate inflammation. The solution is injected under ultrasound guidance into the target tissue.

PRP is often considered for:

• Early arthritis
• Tendon irritation
• Rotator cuff related pain
• Post-surgical support
• Activity-related inflammation

It is frequently chosen by individuals who want to avoid corticosteroid injections or who have persistent discomfort despite standard care.

2. MFAT (Microfragmented Adipose Tissue)

MFAT uses a small amount of a patient’s adipose tissue collected during the same visit. The tissue is mechanically processed, without enzymes or cell isolation, following FDA-compliant minimal manipulation guidelines. The prepared tissue is injected into the joint or soft tissue under ultrasound guidance.

MFAT may be considered for:

• Symptoms related to joint wear
• Soft tissue irritation
• Pain not fully improved by PRP
• Patients seeking joint preservation strategies

MFAT is considered investigational in orthopedic care and outcomes vary. It may be discussed as part of a broader joint health plan.

3. BMAC (Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate)

BMAC involves collecting a small amount of bone marrow from the pelvis. The aspirate is concentrated and injected into the target area. Bone marrow contains a mixture of cells and signaling molecules that may support a healthier tissue environment.

BMAC may be appropriate for:

• Moderate joint wear
• Focal cartilage irritation
• Complex tendon injuries
• Active adults looking for nonsurgical options

Like MFAT, BMAC is investigational and used selectively after a careful evaluation.

What Regenerative Medicine Cannot Do

Regenerative treatments have clear limitations. They cannot:

• Reverse advanced arthritis
• Restore cartilage in bone on bone conditions
• Repair completely torn tendons that have retracted
• Replace surgery when structural correction is required

They serve as part of a comprehensive care model rather than a universal solution.

Understanding the Stem Cell Conversation

Many advertisements promote “stem cell therapy” for joint or tendon conditions. It is important to understand:

• There are no FDA-approved stem cell treatments for orthopedic use.
• True stem cell therapies, which involve expanded or cultured cells, are not permitted outside of tightly regulated clinical trials in the United States.
• Donor products such as amniotic or umbilical tissue are not FDA approved for orthopedic indications.
• At Form and Function Orthopaedics, we use only autologous, minimally manipulated options such as PRP, MFAT, and BMAC.

Our goal is to provide accurate, balanced education so patients can make fully informed decisions.

Fringe “Stem Cell” Clinics and Why We Urge Caution

Patients often encounter online ads, seminars, or social media promotions offering broad claims about “stem cell cures.” Many of these clinics operate outside regulatory guidance or use donor products that are not FDA approved for orthopedic use.

Common concerns include:

• Marketing donor tissue as stem cells
• Treating unrelated conditions with the same injection
• Heavy reliance on testimonials instead of clinical evidence
• Lack of clarity regarding regulatory status
• High-pressure sales tactics at seminars

Serious complications have been reported in unregulated settings, including infections and inflammatory reactions. Many patients also spend significant amounts of money on treatments that provide no documented benefit.

For safety reasons, we do not offer donor biologics, exosomes, or offshore procedures. We are always available to review outside recommendations so patients understand the risks and regulatory considerations before proceeding elsewhere.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Regenerative Therapy

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have mild to moderate arthritis
• Want to avoid or delay surgical intervention
• Are experiencing hormonally influenced joint changes
• Have chronic tendon or soft tissue pain
• Are an active adult recovering from overuse injuries
• Prefer biologic options with limited downtime

Candidacy is evaluated through consultation, examination, and imaging.

The Bottom Line

Regenerative medicine offers biologic support for joint and soft tissue health. PRP, MFAT, and BMAC are used within a comprehensive orthopedic care plan that includes diagnostics, rehabilitation, load management, preventive strategies, and, when needed, surgical solutions.

Patients choose these options for their customized approach, evidence-informed application, and alignment with long-term movement and performance goals.

Ready to Explore Your Options

If joint or soft tissue pain is holding you back, we can help you understand the full spectrum of modern treatment pathways.

To schedule a consultation, visit f2ortho.com or call our office.

We serve patients in Portland, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Tigard, and surrounding communities.