Orthocare & Joint Rehabilitation
Orthocare & Joint Rehabilitation
Biologics are used in selected orthopedic and sports medicine procedures targeting joint discomfort, tendon conditions, and soft-tissue recovery.
More infoBiologics are used in selected orthopedic and sports medicine procedures targeting joint discomfort, tendon conditions, and soft-tissue recovery.
More infoBiologics are used in aesthetic procedures to support skin rejuvenation, improve the appearance of skin texture, and complement facial treatments.
More infoBiologics are being studied in sexual wellness procedures, including approaches intended to support sexual function and tissue health.
More infoBiologics are used in some hair-restoration programs to support hair follicles and address certain patterns of hair thinning.
More infoBiologics are used or researched as an adjunct in selected wound-care procedures to support tissue repair and wound healing.
More infoBiologics are substances obtained from living organisms or their components. In regenerative medicine, the term is often used for blood-derived preparations, cell-derived particles, and cell-based approaches. Cellular medicine studies how cells and their biological signals interact with tissues, including processes involved in inflammation, healing, and repair. PRP, exosomes, and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are distinct approaches with different sources and methods.
PRP is a concentrated portion of a person's own blood, prepared by separating the blood components and collecting plasma enriched with platelets. Platelets release growth factors and signaling proteins involved in normal tissue responses.
What PRP is used or researched for: PRP is used or studied in selected orthopedic and sports-medicine settings, including knee osteoarthritis symptoms and some tendon injuries; in dermatology for certain forms of hair thinning and skin rejuvenation; and as an adjunct in some wound-care procedures. Researchers also study PRP in sexual-wellness applications. The method of preparation and clinical approach differ by application.
Exosomes are tiny, membrane-enclosed particles released by cells. They carry molecular signals such as proteins, lipids, and RNA between cells. They are not living cells or stem cells.
What exosomes are researched for: Scientists investigate exosome signaling in tissue repair, inflammation, immune regulation, and cell-to-cell communication. Early-stage research also explores applications involving skin appearance, hair follicles, musculoskeletal tissues, and wound healing, including how exosomes might deliver biological signals to target tissues.
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), sometimes referred to as mesenchymal stem cells, are cells studied for their ability to interact with surrounding tissues and release signaling molecules. They may be isolated from sources such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, or perinatal tissues. Researchers examine both their cellular behavior and the substances they secrete.
What MSCs are researched for: MSC research includes inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions, cartilage and joint disorders, tendon and soft-tissue injuries, wound repair, and certain complications of medical treatments. Clinical trials investigate whether their signaling effects can influence inflammation and tissue recovery.
PRP: PRP is prepared from a patient's blood, but its composition varies with the preparation method and treatment protocol. Evidence and professional recommendations differ by condition; it should not be presented as a guaranteed means of regenerating tissue. Blood draws and injections can cause pain, bruising, bleeding, infection, or other procedure-related complications. A clinician should assess the diagnosis, expected benefits, alternatives, and suitability of treatment.
Exosomes: The FDA has not approved any exosome products for treatment of diseases or conditions. Products can vary substantially in source, purity, potency, manufacturing controls, and contamination risk. Claims of proven joint regeneration, hair restoration, wound healing, or anti-aging effects are not established by the early-stage research described above. Exosome injections or infusions offered outside properly authorized research require particular caution.
MSCs: FDA-approved stem-cell products in the United States are limited to blood-forming stem cells for specific blood-related disorders; MSC products marketed for orthopedic, neurologic, aesthetic, or anti-aging purposes are not FDA-approved treatments for those uses. Potential risks of unapproved cell products include infection, immune reactions, unwanted tissue formation, and complications from collection or administration. Trial results for one cell product or condition cannot be assumed to apply to another.
Before considering any of these options: Ask about the exact product and source, how it is processed, whether the proposed use is FDA-approved or part of an authorized clinical trial, what evidence applies to your condition, the expected costs, and available standard-care alternatives. Read the FDA consumer alert on regenerative medicine products.