Determining if you are a candidate for biologic treatments requires a comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. Generally, these treatments are best suited for patients who have exhausted conservative options—such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications—but are not yet ready for, or do not require, major joint replacement surgery.

Ideal candidates are typically those with mild to moderate conditions. For example, biologic injections are often most effective for early arthritis rather than "bone-on-bone" severe arthritis, where joint replacement is usually the only viable solution. Similarly, they work best for partial tendon tears or chronic tendonosis rather than complete ruptures that require surgical reattachment. During your consultation at MOA, our specialists will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and analyze imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs) to determine if your specific injury is likely to respond to regenerative therapy. We believe in honest, transparent care and will only recommend these treatments if we believe they offer you a genuine benefit.

One of the major advantages of biologic treatments, particularly injections like PRP, is the minimal downtime compared to surgery. However, because these treatments work by stimulating a healing response, the recovery process is different from a steroid injection. Steroids provide immediate anti-inflammatory relief, but biologics often cause a temporary increase in inflammation as the healing cascade begins.

For the first few days after an injection, you may experience mild soreness or swelling at the site. We typically advise patients to avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) for a short period, as these can inhibit the desired healing effect. You may need to rest the area or modify your activities for a few weeks. Improvement is not immediate; it is gradual. Most patients begin to feel significant relief within 4 to 6 weeks as the tissue repairs itself, with continued improvement over 3 to 6 months. For surgical procedures like cartilage restoration, the recovery is more involved, often requiring a period of non-weight bearing and a structured physical therapy rehabilitation program similar to other joint surgeries.

The cost of biologic treatments varies significantly depending on the specific type of therapy and whether it is performed in the office or the operating room. Currently, many insurance plans classify certain regenerative treatments, such as PRP injections, as "investigational," meaning they may not be covered and would require an out-of-pocket payment. However, other procedures, particularly surgical cartilage restoration techniques, are often covered by insurance when medically necessary.

During your consultation, our financial counselors will work with you to determine your coverage eligibility. We will provide a clear, upfront estimate of any potential costs so you can make an informed financial decision. At MOA, we strive to make these advanced therapies as accessible as possible, offering competitive pricing for non-covered services because we believe in their value for patient recovery.