Transform the way you manage musculoskeletal conditions, joint health and overall patient wellness
Transform the way you manage musculoskeletal conditions, joint health and overall patient wellnessChiropractic has always been at the forefront of natural healing, with a focus on understanding the body’s ability to repair and restore itself without drugs or invasive procedures. But what if we could enhance that process? What if we could offer science-backed therapies that accelerate healing, reduce pain and improve long-term outcomes? That’s where regenerative medicine comes in.
While many regenerative therapies fall outside a DC’s direct scope of practice, integrating medical professionals such as nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) into a collaborative setting allows expansion of services. This approach maintains alignment with chiropractic’s philosophy of optimizing the body’s natural healing ability while ensuring compliance with state regulations and best practices.
However, DCs often need a collaborating medical physician. Some areas of the country provide advanced NP and PA degrees that allow for direct access without a collaborating physician. It is recommended DCs consult with local legal counsel familiar with group multidisciplinary healthcare laws prior to entering into any these relationships.
From human cellular tissue products and platelet-rich plasma therapy to ozone and peptide therapies, regenerative medicine is transforming the way musculoskeletal conditions, joint health and overall patient wellness are managed. However, not all regenerative therapies are created equal. Understanding differences in quality, sourcing and application is critical for achieving the best patient outcomes.
The importance of quality in regenerative therapies
The effectiveness of regenerative medicine varies widely based on the type, quality and application of therapies used. Patients and providers alike should be aware that not all regenerative products meet the same standards.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates human cellular tissue products (HCT/Ps) to ensure patient safety and prevent contamination. Some products require full FDA approval, while others—when minimally manipulated and used for homologous purposes—fall under regulatory compliance guidelines. The best practice is to only source regenerative medicine products from FDA-compliant facilities that follow strict safety protocols. Using unregulated products can pose risks, including contamination and inconsistent results.
Not all products marketed as regenerative medicine are compliant or safe. DCs should work with reputable suppliers and stay updated on regulations to avoid liability and ensure patient safety.
The foundation of regenerative medicine
HCT/Ps contain signaling molecules that encourage the body’s own repair mechanisms. These products do not create new tissue but instead enhance healing by signaling the body’s stem cells to respond to injury.
There are different types of HCT/Ps. Bone marrow and adipose-derived products are harvested from the patient’s own body but lose potency with age. Umbilical cord-derived products offer a younger and potentially more potent alternative but require careful sourcing to ensure compliance with FDA guidelines.
Optimize patient outcomes
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves drawing a patient’s blood, processing it in a centrifuge and injecting the platelet concentrate into damaged joints, soft tissues or muscles. PRP is effective because platelets contain growth factors that stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.
The concentration of platelets in PRP determines its effectiveness. Single-spin PRP systems yield lower platelet concentrations, typically 1.5 to 3 times baseline. These systems are faster and more cost-effective but may not always provide the best results for tissue repair. A double-spin PRP system, which concentrates platelets up to five to eight times baseline, delivers a higher dose of healing factors to the injured area. DCs integrating PRP therapy should consider investing in a double-spin PRP system to maximize patient outcomes.
The key to regenerative success
For regenerative therapies to be fully effective, the healing elements must stay in the treatment area long enough to work. Scaffolding plays a crucial role in this process. By mixing gently heated platelet-poor plasma (PPP) with PRP, providers can create a gel-like matrix that holds healing factors in place.
Scaffolding extends the time growth factors are present in the joint space, increasing it from four days to four months, which can significantly improve healing outcomes. Without scaffolding, regenerative treatments may not remain in the affected area long enough to be fully effective. Adding PPP-based scaffolding to PRP and HCT/P injections can lead to better overall results.
Enhance circulation and recovery
Ozone therapy improves oxygen utilization and stimulates tissue repair. Since injured joints and ligaments have limited blood flow, ozone therapy mimics new blood supply formation, or angiogenesis, to enhance healing.
One of the most common applications of ozone therapy is prolozone injections, where ozone is injected directly into joints and soft tissues. This approach can help regenerate cartilage, reduce pain and improve function. Many patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions benefit from this drug-free treatment. DCs considering regenerative therapies may find ozone therapy a valuable addition to their practice.
The next frontier in regenerative medicine
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as cellular messengers to stimulate healing, regulate metabolism and enhance recovery. Peptides can be administered via injections, iontophoresis patches or nasal sprays, allowing for targeted therapeutic benefits.
In regenerative medicine, peptide therapies are used to support tissue regeneration, decrease pain and inflammation, speed up joint and muscle recovery and boost metabolic health. When integrated with other regenerative treatments, such as PRP, ozone therapy or HCT/Ps, peptides can enhance healing and improve patient outcomes.
The future of regenerative medicine
Regenerative medicine is redefining healthcare, and you are uniquely positioned to lead the way in providing drug-free, noninvasive healing solutions. By integrating HCT/Ps, PRP, ozone therapy and peptide therapies into your practice, you can offer comprehensive solutions that align with your philosophy while ensuring compliance with medical regulations.
The first step for a DC integrating regenerative medicine is forming a collaborative relationship with licensed medical professionals such as nurse practitioners or physician assistants. Sourcing FDA-compliant products, investing in high-quality PRP systems and incorporating scaffolding techniques can significantly improve patient outcomes. Exploring ozone and peptide therapies as adjunct treatments can further expand the range of regenerative solutions available. Staying informed about regulatory compliance is essential to ensuring that regenerative medicine is integrated ethically and effectively.
Final thoughts on regenerative medicine
Regenerative medicine is not just a trend—it represents the next evolution in natural healing. By adopting these science-backed therapies, you can play a pivotal role in helping patients heal, recover and take charge of their long-term health. As the field continues to evolve, DCs who embrace regenerative medicine will position themselves at the forefront of patient-centered, outcome-driven care.
Mark Sanna, DC, ACRB LEVEL II, FICC, is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching, a practice management company for chiropractic and multidisciplinary practices. He is a Board member of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a member of the Chiropractic Summit and a member of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee. Sanna is the author of “Cracking the Code: Marketing Chiropractic—How Chiropractors Align Spines and Minds,” available on amazon.com. To learn more, call 800-723-8423 or visit mybreakthrough.com.
