Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)2025-11-25T05:35:39-07:00

SERVICES & TREATMENTS

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)

Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) therapy is a regenerative medicine procedure that uses stem cells and growth factors from your own bone marrow to promote tissue healing, reduce pain, and improve function in joints, tendons, and soft tissues.

Bone marrow is rich in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), platelets, and other healing factors that help repair damaged tissues by reducing inflammation, enhancing cell regeneration, and stimulating natural healing. BMAC is commonly used in orthopedic, sports medicine, and musculoskeletal procedures as a non-surgical alternative for chronic pain and injuries.

How Does BMAC Therapy Work?

  • 1
    Bone Marrow Extraction: A small amount of bone marrow is drawn from the pelvic bone (iliac crest) using a specialized needle.
  • 2
    Processing the Bone Marrow: The aspirate is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate stem cells, platelets, and growth factors while removing unnecessary components.
  • 3

    Injection Into the Target Area: The concentrated BMAC is precisely injected into the damaged joint, tendon, or bone using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accuracy.

This process enhances the body’s natural repair mechanisms, making it a promising treatment for chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Conditions Treated with BMAC Therapy

BMAC therapy is commonly used in orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Joint & Cartilage Conditions

  • Osteoarthritis (Mild to Moderate): Knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle arthritis.
  • Cartilage Damage & Degeneration: Wear and tear from aging or repetitive stress.
  • Meniscus & Labral Tears: Knee and hip joint soft tissue injuries.

Tendon & Ligament Injuries

  • Rotator Cuff Tears (Partial): Shoulder tendon damage.
  • Tendonitis & Tendinopathy: Chronic Achilles, patellar, quad, shoulder, or elbow tendon pain.
  • Plantar Fasciitis, or fasciopathy: Persistent heel pain from inflammation.

Other Musculoskeletal Disorders

  • Chronic Joint Pain & Stiffness
  • Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction
  • Sports Injuries & Overuse Syndromes

BMAC therapy is often combined with physical therapy and other regenerative treatments (such as PRP or MFAT) to enhance results.

BMAC Therapy FAQs

What can Patients Expect During The Procedure?2025-10-22T15:35:34-07:00

1. Preparation:

  • You may be asked to stop taking certain medications (such as blood thinners) before the procedure.
  • Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, though mild sedation may also be offered.
  • The most common site for aspiration is the pelvic bone (iliac crest), though the sternum (breastbone) or tibia (shinbone) may be used in some cases.

2. The Procedure:

  • The skin is sterilized, and a small incision is made.
  • A specialized needle is inserted into the bone to reach the marrow.
  • A syringe is used to withdraw the liquid portion of the marrow (aspirate).
  • If a biopsy is also needed, a separate tool is used to extract a small piece of bone marrow tissue.
  • The sample is then processed for laboratory analysis or concentrated for therapeutic use.
  • The entire procedure typically 60-90 minutes.

3. Post-Procedure:

  • A bandage is applied to the area, and you will be monitored for a short time.
  • Most people can resume normal activities within 24–48 hours, though heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few days.
How Many BMAC Treatments Are Needed?2025-10-22T15:18:46-07:00
  • Most patients require only one BMAC treatment for long-term benefits.
  • Some may need a second treatment after 6–12 months for optimal results.
  • In cases of severe joint degeneration or chronic tendon injuries, a combination of BMAC, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or MFAT (microfragmented adipose tissue) therapy may be recommended.
What are the Potential Risks and Side Effects?2025-10-22T15:20:45-07:00

BMAC therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated because it uses your own bone marrow, minimizing the risk of rejection or allergic reactions.

Common Side Effects (Usually Temporary):

  • Mild pain, swelling, or bruising at the bone marrow extraction and injection sites.
  • Temporary stiffness or soreness in the treated area.

Rare Complications:

  • Infection (very rare).
  • Temporary nerve irritation or discomfort at the aspiration site.
  • Mild bleeding or bruising at the extraction site.
What are the Benefits of BMAC Therapy?2025-10-22T15:22:02-07:00
  • Uses your body’s own regenerative cells—no foreign substances.
  • Minimally invasive, low risk, and no general anesthesia required.
  • Reduces pain and inflammation naturally without long-term medication use.
  • Promotes long-term tissue healing and repair (unlike cortisone injections, which only provide temporary relief).
  • Can be combined with other regenerative treatments (PRP, MFAT, prolotherapy) for enhanced results.
  • May delay or eliminate the need for surgery, such as joint replacement or tendon repair.
What is the Recovery and Post-Treatment Care for BMAC?2025-10-22T15:24:21-07:00

Do’s After BMAC Therapy:
✔ Use ice therapy (if recommended) to reduce swelling.
✔ Stay hydrated and eat a nutrient-rich diet to support healing.
Engage in gentle movement to prevent stiffness but avoid high-impact activities.
✔ Follow physical therapy exercises if recommended by your provider.
✔ Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed for pain relief (avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen).

Don’ts After BMAC Therapy:

Avoid intense exercise or heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks.
Do not take anti-inflammatory medications, as they may interfere with the body’s healing response.
Avoid prolonged standing or excessive pressure on the treated area for the first few days.

Who is a Good Candidate for BMAC Therapy?2025-10-22T15:26:11-07:00

You may be a good candidate if you:
✔ Have chronic joint pain, arthritis, or tendon injuries that have not responded to traditional treatments.
✔ Want a minimally invasive, regenerative approach instead of surgery.
✔ Are looking for a natural, long-term solution to pain and tissue degeneration.
✔ Are willing to follow a structured rehabilitation plan for optimal results.

BMAC therapy may not be recommended for individuals with:

  • Severe advanced osteoarthritis where joint replacement is the best option.
  • Active infections, uncontrolled diabetes, or bleeding disorders.
  • Severe osteoporosis or compromised bone marrow health.

Ready to start on the road to recovery?

Get in touch and schedule your appointment today.

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