Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine

Back Pain Doctor in Metro Detroit Non-Surgical Care From Board-Certified Doctors

When you’re suffering from chronic back discomfort, you understandably want the best guidance from a back pain doctor in Metro Detroit who offers a wide range of minimally invasive treatment options.

Are You a Candidate? Call (248) 216-1008

★ 4.7 Google rating · Board-certified physicians · Rochester Hills & Grand Rapids

A person wearing floral gloves and red boots squats in a garden, using a hand trowel to work the soil.

Medically reviewed by Thomas Nabity, MD, board-certified physician

What can a back pain doctor near Metro Detroit, MI treat?

A back pain doctor at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine can evaluate and treat arthritis, sciatica, nerve compression, herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, and muscle strains and sprains. Because symptoms often overlap, we start with an accurate diagnosis, then build a customized regenerative care plan that may help you avoid back surgery.

Rest assured, our back pain doctor in Metro Detroit works closely with each patient to identify the root cause of their pain and recommend appropriate regenerative therapies.

Regenerative medicine performed by a back pain doctor in Metro Detroit restores damaged tissues that contribute to chronic pain, rather than simply masking symptoms. Unlike surgery, these treatments are less invasive, involve fewer risks, and typically require less downtime.

Our back pain doctor doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.

The goal of our back pain doctor is to help you return to daily activities with improved mobility, reduced pain, and a stronger foundation for long-term recovery.
The personalized approach to care by your back pain doctor blends advanced diagnostic testing with a detailed evaluation of your lifestyle and goals.
Our back pain doctor can then recommend the most appropriate regenerative treatment — whether that’s PRP, prolotherapy, or other option.

So if you’re ready for a treatment option that supports healing and lasting relief, contact a back pain doctor at our clinic today.

Contact our back pain doctor today for an initial consultation and to get started on the road to pain relief.

Why Consult With a Back Pain Doctor in Metro Detroit?

A smiling older couple walks arm in arm along a park path covered in fallen autumn leaves.

Back pain can arise from many different things, signaling the need to visit a back pain doctor. Here are some of the most common causes of back pain:

1. Overuse or Muscle Strain

Because the back contains many muscles, placing too much strain on any of them can lead to pain. In most cases, this type of pain improves with rest and self-care, and you may not need to see a back pain doctor.

2. Trauma or Injury

The second most common cause is trauma, such as:

Fall from a height
Car accident
Sudden impact or injury

These injuries often result in prolonged pain and may require evaluation and treatment from a back pain doctor.

3. Age-Related Factors (50+)

If you are over 50, even minor trauma can cause back pain that doesn’t resolve on its own. As we age, the body’s ability to recover from injury decreases, making medical intervention more likely. This is when you should consult a back pain doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Get a Comprehensive Evaluation by a Back Pain Doctor

Your initial visit to us will include a comprehensive evaluation by our experienced back pain doctor near Birmingham, MI, where you can expect us to:

Chat about your symptoms and medical history: Your back pain doctor will ask questions such as when your pain began, what worsens or relieves it, and how it affects your daily activities.
Give you a thorough physical examination: Next, yourback pain doctor will evaluate movement, stability, strength, and areas of tenderness.
Perform diagnostic testing: If needed, imaging or nerve studies may be ordered by your back pain doctor to get a better sense of where your pain is coming from.
Offer personalized treatment recommendations: These will be based on your specific condition, lifestyle, and recovery goals.

Rest assured, your back pain doctor near Birmingham, MI will thoroughly explain all available treatment options, including expected benefits, potential risks, and realistic timelines for improvement.

Treatment Options For Degenerative Disc Disease: PRP With Back Pain Doctor

Degenerative disc disease is when the discs between the vertebrae begin to break down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This is just one condition than can be helped by PRP, when performed by a qualified back pain doctor. To plan ahead, read our guide to PRP treatment cost in Michigan.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment performed by a qualified back pain doctor that may help reduce pain and support healing in damaged disc tissue.

With PRP therapy, a small amount of your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma. Your back pain doctor then injects this concentrated serum into the affected area to:

Support disc function
Trigger the body’s natural healing response
Reduce inflammation
Promote tissue regeneration

Signs You Should See a Back Pain Doctor

Not all back pain needs medical care, but some symptoms point to a more serious problem. If your pain lasts, worsens, or interferes with daily life, it is time to schedule a consultation. Addressing the problem early can keep a minor issue from becoming more severe.

Back pain lasting longer than two to three weeks. Pain that does not improve with rest or self-care is often due to tissue damage or inflammation that needs professional treatment.
Pain that worsens with activity or rest. Joint dysfunction or disc problems can cause pain that flares when moving, standing, sitting, or lying down.
Radiating pain, numbness, or weakness. Pain, tingling, or weakness that travels into the hips, legs, or feet is likely a nerve problem and should be evaluated promptly. Learn about EMG testing.
Limited mobility or reduced function. Trouble bending, walking, lifting, or doing everyday tasks can mean stability or strength is affected.

Your physician can identify the root cause of your symptoms and determine whether minimally invasive or regenerative treatment is the better course. Go to the emergency room for back pain with loss of bladder or bowel control, new leg weakness, or fever.

A woman in denim overalls uses hand pruners to trim a row of lavender.

Conditions

Back Conditions Our Physicians Evaluate

Back pain often has more than one cause. Your exam and imaging determine which treatment fits.

Knee Pain & Arthritis

Knee arthritis and old injuries can limit walks and stairs. An exam shows which options fit.

Shoulder & Rotator Cuff

Shoulder symptoms can come from tendons, the joint or nerves, so diagnosis comes first.

Back, Spine & SI Joint

Back discomfort does not always start in a disc. Careful evaluation guides the next step.

Hip & Other Joints

Hip, elbow and ankle concerns are reviewed with your history, exam and imaging.

Sports & Auto Injuries

Lingering problems after a sports injury or car accident get a full evaluation.

Nerve Symptoms & More

Neuropathy, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis and more. Browse every condition we evaluate.

Patient reviews

What Our Patients Say

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Peter Lynde 
 15 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent experience with Dr. Farhat at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. Experienced, knowledgeable and patient. I highly recommend him and the Center.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cindy Jubeck 
 119 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Nabity is one of the most caring, patient, & thorough doctors around! Highly recommended he & his team!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James R 
 128 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say anything good enough about Dr. Santa and the entire staff at Michian centers of Regentive Medicine! I suffered for 6 yrs with debilitating cervical instability in my c1- c2 through c7 area. Dr Santa Ana recommeneded PRP for me. Its has been life changing for me with just the 1st treatment. I have now gotten a second treatment because the 1st was so successful!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Christopher Micakovic 
 136 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Farhat is knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely cares about helping patients improve their quality of life. The office is well organized, appointments are handled professionally, and the staff is always friendly and helpful.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Gwendolyn Botardo 
 148 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Santa Ana is very kind. He demonstrates advanced professional skill in the administration of regenerative medicine. The decompression and stem cell treatment provided for my hip pathology were executed with the highest level of competence. God bless Dr. JSA, and his staff: Heidi and Jennifer, thank you for your care and compassion. The CRNA who kept me comfortable and safely sedated- Amanda{?} - sorry if I forgot your name- a testimony to your great Versed execution.  Alexus and Brie, thank you. CC: Cathy> appreciate how you easily share your peaceful zen and help to place those in your presence at ease. Awesome team! Thank you,      All ; )  ~ GBS
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tony Coy 
 194 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Nabity and his staff are great. They take the time to expansively listen and share knowledge about conditions, injuries, and treatments. I can tell Dr Nabity is passionate about helping his clients and avoiding surgery if possible. He’s clear about plan of action / plan of healing and that has helped me a lot! I feel more comfortable with my health and moving forward because of Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. I highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Southway 
 200 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Nabity is easy to talk to and helps a lot with his procedures. I had PRP on my Right shoulder for tear in my rotator cuff. My shoulder is feeling 99% better. Only when I over do it do I have some discomfort.Grateful that I didn’t have surgery & saw Dr Nabity.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lise Shirtz 
 450 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Robert Farhat is extremely professional, educational & most of all cares about his patients. I went there for a tear in my shoulder, had platelet replacement therapy/surgery. (I had struggled for 6 months before this, going to PT, etc. no luck,
and I did not want regular surgery.)
I am back to lifting weights as prior to my injury, hiking etc.  I am a True believer in this type of medical procedure!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Judith Schwagle 
 465 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Nabity is awesome!  He spent over an hour with my husband and me going over my MRI’s for hip issues and all other information. He explained everything about PRP and answered all my questions. While  we were there, he even checked out my husband’s hip problem too and gave him suggestions as well. I am very pleased with the plan of action we chose together. Looking forward to healing!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James Grech 
 571 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is only a review for the first consultation.  I met with Dr. Santa Anna and I was very impressed with his ability to explain my options after looking at my previous MRI's and also doing ultra sound on my shoulder.  I did not feel any pressure and he gave me multiple options with his opinion on what would be the best option.  I have not gotten any procedures yet and will update after I do.  This is for those that might be nervous about going here for their first consultation.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sherry Wood 
 985 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After years of enduring excruciating pain and sleepless nights, I found relief at the Michigan Center For Regenerative Medicine. Chronic back and shoulder discomfort had taken a toll on my well-being, leaving me fatigued and irritable. My family even nicknamed me "Shrek" due to my constant agony. However, thanks to the expert care I received at the center, I've experienced a remarkable transformation. Following treatment for my back and shoulder, I am now able to lift my arm over my head—a simple task that had eluded me for years. Today, I am no longer plagued by pain and misery, and I finally find myself living a life filled with happiness and comfort. (from Tom Lints)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kris Pline 
 1006 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was having serious SI joint flares for a few months and was having a hard time working because of the pain and inability to walk very well.  I then started physical therapy but was not able to do my exercises very well because of the pain.  I heard about PRP and contacted the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine.  I was able to get PRP done the next week and it was a life saver!  I truly thought I was never going to be the same again. All the staff and Doctor Santa Ana were super kind and helpful during the procedure.  I felt better right away and have not had a flare since the procedure.  I am so thankful and recommend this to anyone with severe pain!
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

In Their Words

We were amazed at how thorough the explanation of the recommended procedure was. I knew just what would happen and what I was agreeing to.

Steve G. Regenerative medicine patient

This doctor is very professional, using layman’s terms and taking his time with my parents to fully explain everything, and in answering all our questions!

Rosanna Windsor, Ontario · Family of a stem cell patient

Dr Nabity answered every question/concerns I had prior to the procedure in detail. If you leave a message for him he always calls you back himself.

Connie H. New Baltimore, MI · Stem cell patient

Excerpts from our patient testimonials.

Individual results vary. Reviews reflect each patient’s own experience.

An older male doctor in a white coat with a stethoscope around his neck smiles while speaking with a patient.

Your visit

Your Path to Treatment

Most visits follow four simple steps. Our team guides you through each one and answers questions along the way.

1. Consultation

Meet your physician, talk through your symptoms, and review your history and goals.

2. Diagnosis & Imaging

Ultrasound or other imaging helps identify the source of your pain.

3. Treatment

If regenerative treatment fits, your physician places PRP or prolotherapy precisely in the affected area with image guidance.

4. Follow-Up

Check-ins track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Start With a Consultation

Call (248) 216-1008

Insurance & cost

Insurance, Self-Pay, and Clear Pricing

We accept many major insurance plans for consultations, testing, and many spine and joint procedures. Regenerative treatments such as PRP and stem cell therapy are usually self-pay, so you get a clear estimate before you decide.

Usually billed to insurance

Consultations and office visits
EMG and nerve testing
Epidural, facet, and SI joint injections
Nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and nerve stimulators

Usually self-pay

PRP and stem cell therapy (BMAC)
Prolotherapy
PRP hair restoration
Stem cell banking

Self-pay options include prompt-pay discounts, payment plans, and HSA or FSA funds for eligible expenses.

See accepted insurance PRP cost guide

Plans we accept

PPO Trust

UMR coming soon. Blue Care Network plans require a referral. Coverage varies by plan and service, so call Rochester Hills (248) 216-1008 or Grand Rapids (616) 288-1109 and we will check your benefits.

Why patients choose MCRM

Board-certified physicians Every procedure is performed by a board-certified physician, not a technician.
Image-guided precision Ultrasound or fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance places treatment exactly where it is needed.
Your own cells, prepared on site Platelets and bone marrow cells are processed in our in-house lab during your visit.
Results we track We have reported patient outcomes to the DataBiologics registry since 2019.
Clear, upfront pricing Itemized estimates before treatment, prompt-pay discounts, and payment plans.
Physicians who teach physicians Our doctors teach orthobiologic courses and helped write national back pain guidelines.

Our physicians

Meet Your Care Team

Thomas Nabity, MD
Board-certified physician

John Santa Ana, DO
Board-certified physician

Robert Farhat, DO
Board-certified physician

Kevin M. Nemeth, MD
Board-certified physician

John Steele, MD
Board-certified physician

Christopher Hannasch, DO
Board-certified physician

Credentials & memberships

Training You Can Look Up

Board certification shows a physician completed specialty training and passed independent exams. Our physicians go further, with added certifications and memberships in orthobiologics, musculoskeletal ultrasound and electrodiagnostic medicine. Each program is run by an independent organization, so you can see exactly what it requires.

PM&R Board Certification

Board certification in physical medicine and rehabilitation, the specialty focused on restoring function.

About ABPMR

Pain Medicine Board Certification

Board certification in pain medicine, covering evaluation and treatment of complex pain conditions.

About ABPM

IOF Certification Courses

Advanced knee, hip and spine certification courses in image-guided orthobiologic procedures.

About IOF courses

IOF Instructors & Training Hub

Our physicians teach other doctors as IOF instructors, and our Rochester Hills clinic hosts training.

About our training hub

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Certified in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound, the imaging used to guide our treatments.

About RMSK

Electrodiagnostic Medicine

Board certification in electrodiagnostic medicine, the specialty behind EMG and nerve testing.

About ABEM

American Academy of PM&R

The national society for physiatrists, physicians focused on restoring movement.

About AAPM&R

Interventional Pain (ASIPP)

A society that sets education and practice standards for interventional pain medicine.

About ASIPP

Orthopaedic Medicine (AAOM)

A physician group focused on non-surgical musculoskeletal care, including prolotherapy.

About AAOM

DataBiologics Registry

We report patient outcomes to a national orthobiologics registry to track results over time.

How we track outcomes

Patient stories

Hear From Our Patients

Patients describe their own experiences with care at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. Individual results vary.

Patient Testimonial

FAQ

Back Pain Questions

Answers to common questions from Metro Detroit patients. Your physician can address your specific situation during a consultation.

What conditions does a back pain doctor treat?

Arthritis and joint degeneration, sciatica and nerve compression, herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, and muscle strains and sprains.

When should I see a back pain doctor?

If pain lasts longer than two to three weeks, worsens with activity or rest, travels into the legs, or limits daily activities.

Can regenerative medicine help me avoid back surgery?

For some patients it may. Your physician will review your exam and imaging and be honest about whether surgery is a better fit.

What is PRP for back pain?

Concentrated platelets from your own blood, placed in targeted areas of the spine to calm inflammation and support healing.

What is prolotherapy for back pain?

A natural dextrose solution placed into weakened ligaments to activate the body’s healing response.

Are spine injections image-guided?

Yes. Our physicians use ultrasound or fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance.

Does insurance cover back pain treatment?

Many conventional spine procedures and EMG testing can be billed to insurance. Regenerative treatments are usually self-pay.

How is the cause of back pain found?

Your physician examines you and reviews imaging, and may order EMG testing to check for nerve involvement.

Where is your clinic?

Our Rochester Hills office is at 355 Barclay Circle, Suite A, Rochester Hills, MI 48307. Call (248) 216-1008 for directions.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Call (248) 216-1008 or use the short form on this page to request your free consultation.

A smiling older woman talking with a doctor in a medical office.

Still Have Questions?

Talk with our team about your back symptoms and which options may fit.

Grand Rapids: (616) 288-1109
Rochester Hills: (248) 216-1008

Are You a Candidate?

Keep learning

Find Out if Regenerative Back Care Is Right for You

Answer a few short questions and our team will contact you to schedule a consultation.

Share your symptoms and goals in the short form.

Our team contacts you to schedule a consultation.

Meet a board-certified physician in Grand Rapids or Rochester Hills.

★ 4.7 Google ratingBoard-certified physiciansTwo Michigan clinics

Prefer to talk?Rochester Hills (248) 216-1008Grand Rapids (616) 288-1109

Free webinar replay

Watch: Pain Management Treatment Strategies

Watch the replay of our physicians’ webinar on pain management treatment strategies.

Our physicians host free webinars with live Q&A. Watch any past webinar on demand, or call us to ask about the next date.

Watch Past Webinars Ask about upcoming dates

Our locations

Visit Our Michigan Clinics

Rochester Hills Clinic

355 Barclay Cir, Suite A
Rochester Hills, MI 48307

(248) 216-1008

Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm

Get directions View clinic details

Grand Rapids Clinic

1000 E. Paris Ave SE, Suite 221
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

(616) 288-1109