Orthobiologic Injections
Orthobiologic injections use substances derived from the body to stimulate healing, regulate inflammation, and improve the environment in injured tissue by recruiting the body's self-repair cells. Our research focuses on identifying the most effective emerging therapies.
About This Research Area
Orthobiologic injections offer a non-operative approach to treating joint pain and tissue injury. Therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are increasingly used, but important questions remain about which treatments are most effective, how long their benefits last, and which patients are most likely to respond.
Cortisone remains one of the most commonly used joint injections and can provide short-term symptom relief. However, it does not restore damaged tissue, and repeated use may have harmful effects on cartilage and other joint structures. Orthobiologic therapies are intended to work differently by using biologic signals and cells that may stimulate the body's healing response.
SRF's research direction is focused on building stronger evidence for regenerative injection therapies and determining how they can be used safely and effectively to improve outcomes for patients without surgical intervention.
Areas of Investigation
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP concentrates platelets and growth factors from a patient's own blood and is used to support tissue repair and regulate inflammation.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
BMAC consists of a sample of bone marrow, enriched to concentrate beneficial cells and growth factors that help reduce joint inflammation.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
PRF is extracted from a blood draw and concentrates platelets, white blood cells, and the body’s natural clotting agent called fibrin. The fibrin acts as a spongy mesh, releasing growth factors and proteins that aid in reducing inflammation over an extended period (up to 21 days).
Adipose Tissue
Adipose tissue, or fat, is a rich source of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). These cells may help promote healing and reduce inflammation in the joint.
Current Research Projects
SRF has designed a comparative study to evaluate leading injection therapies for joint pain and inflammation. Developed in collaboration with Daniel Grande, PhD, President of the International Cartilage Research Society (ICRS) and Director of Orthopaedic Research at The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, the study will compare their safety, effectiveness, and lasting benefit to identify which treatments offer patients the most meaningful and reliable relief.
Patient Stories
Meet real patients who benefited from orthobiologic injections, preserving their natural joints while regaining function and returning to high-level activity. Watch their stories about their journey through recovery and back to active living.
From Arthritic Pain to Pole Vaulting at World Masters with Orthobiologic Injections
Kenneth St Cyr, 71, defied the odds and reignited his pole vaulting career after receiving life-changing orthobiologic injections. Once sidelined by arthritis from past injuries, Ken's journey from pain relief to top-ranked athlete is nothing short of inspirational. Here's his incredible story on how he became a top performer at the 2023 World Masters Championships.
Watch VideoPublished Research
As research findings are published, they will be added to this library to share our scientific advancements with researchers, patients, and the broader SRF community.
Support This Research
Help us develop new biologic solutions for people who want to stay active after injury or arthritis.