Non-Surgical Options for Meniscus Complications Gain Attention, Stem Cell Orthopedics Weighs in on Medical Alternatives

PHILADELPHIA, PA, June 20, 2013

According to Stem MD--a regenerative medicine healthcare network--a meniscus injury is an issue that most professional athletes wish to never be diagnosed with. However, despite the precautions taken to prevent serious sport injuries, many individuals involved in fitness still suffer from meniscus tears. While many believe that surgery is the only option to resolve this painful injury, Dr. Joseph Purita of Stem MD highlights the possibility for alternative treatment. As such, Purita points to a recent article from New York Daily News that reveals surgery may not always be necessary for those suffering from lateral meniscus tears or other complications found in the area.

In the article, health expert, Lewis G. Maharam warns against initial recommendations from orthopedic practitioners to undergo surgery to treat minimal meniscus pain, especially if those decisions came from one MRI observation. Maharam explains, "I am a little troubled by the recommended need for surgery with minimal pain. I never treat the MRI. Good physicians order MRIs to confirm a diagnosis, not to find one. There are plenty of times that the film may appear to have a tear when the exam is actually normal and when the surgeon directly visualizes it, there was no tear and no need for surgery. And like I said, even if the MRI shows a reimbursable surgical diagnosis, a strong sports medicine doctor can help you decide if the surgery is truly appropriate in your case."

Although some may find that meniscus injuries require surgery, Stem MD encourages all patients to seek second opinions and to consider alternative treatments before opting for invasive, and often expensive, procedures. For example, in the article, Maharam encourages athletes who experience meniscus pain to refer to a trusted sports medicine professional that is familiar with how to identify problems based on physical movement--not just MRI film. He notes that those who find that surgery is not the best option, may find that platelet rich plasma injection therapy or knee strengthening programs are options worth considering.

As a facility that offers thorough one-on-one consultations regarding sports injury treatments, Stem MD also remains highly cautious against surgery as an initial treatment option. "I have had various patients that came to me not wanting to go through surgery again. The various risk factors of general anesthetic, down time and minimal improvement of surgery have caused many patients to seek alternative treatment. In fact, a majority of Stem MD patients realize that there must be a better alternative to invasive knee surgery--PRP or stem cell therapies often provide that alternative. Stem cells regenerate the joint, creating new cartilage, bone and blood vessels. This natural resource also assists with alleviating destructive inflammatory and degenerative conditions," Dr. Joseph Purita of Stem MD concludes.

ABOUT:

Stem MD is a healthcare network that is staffed by a team of world renowned surgeons who are specialist in the area of regenerative medicine. The team at Stem MD partners with clients and healthcare workers to ensure that the care given is personalized and focused on meeting patients' needs. In addition to a high commitment to patient care and support, the therapies offered by this network are able to resolve a number of health issues, including disease and injuries. Treatments have a high rate of success, thus earning the team regular praise from patients and their caregivers, as well as frequent word of mouth recommendations. Those interested in learning more about stem cell and platelet rich plasma therapies are invited to schedule an informative consultation with a trusted, qualified professional at Stem MD.