Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine

Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine

Joint Pain Treatment in Oakland County from Board-Certified Doctors

Joint pain is one of the most common conditions for which patients in Oakland County come to the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine.

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

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What are regenerative orthobiologic treatments?

Regenerative orthobiologic treatments use natural substances, often taken from your own body, to start a healing response in damaged or worn tissue. At the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine, they are minimally invasive outpatient procedures. Compared with surgery, they usually mean less downtime and lower cost.

There can be several different causes of joint pain, ranging from chronic medical conditions like arthritis to overuse injuries and gradual wear and tear.

At the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine, our doctors use powerful regenerative medicine treatments to provide our patients with safe, effective, and minimally invasive joint pain treatment options in Michigan.

We’ll take a closer look at joint pain and how our team can help you find relief from joint pain in Oakland County.

Common Causes of Joint Pain

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Joint pain can have hundreds of different causes, ranging from chronic medical conditions to recent acute injuries. Some of the most common types of joint pain that our Oakland County patients come to us for treatment include:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Joint instability
  • Joint inflammation
  • Age-related degeneration of cartilage

Whether you’re dealing with a degenerative medical condition or have suffered a recent joint injury, the team at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine is here to help you find an effective, safe, and affordable treatment option for your joint pain.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Joint Pain

Oakland patients who are looking for a minimally invasive and medication-free joint pain treatment option have platelet-rich plasma therapy as an option. Platelet-rich plasma therapy or PRP uses a patient’s own plasma and platelets to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and reduce inflammation in the joints. With this treatment option, a patient’s blood will be drawn and placed into a device called a centrifuge, which spins at high speed, separating plasma and platelets. This concentrated serum is then injected directly into the treatment site to stimulate the regeneration of damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. Platelet-rich plasma therapy is an effective treatment option for joint pain caused by:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Degenerative joint disease
  • Cartilage wear and tear
  • Joint pain from overuse

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of platelet-rich plasma therapy for joint pain, contact the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine today. To plan ahead, read our guide to PRP treatment cost in Michigan.

Prolotherapy for Joint Pain

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Prolotherapy is another effective treatment option for joint pain patients and is also minimally invasive. With prolotherapy, a natural sugar called dextrose and a mild anesthetic are injected into the treatment site. Once injected, this solution activates a mild inflammatory response in the body. While uncontrolled inflammation in the body is known to cause pain, inflammatory responses stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Once stimulated, damaged tissues like cartilage found in joints can be healed, providing you with pain relief by remedying the root cause of your joint pain. Prolotherapy can be an effective treatment option for joint pain caused by:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Joint instability
  • Chronic ligament or tendon injuries
  • Overuse injuries
  • Degenerative joint changes

If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of prolotherapy for joint pain in Oakland County, the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine is here to help. Contact our team today to learn more about the benefits of this treatment and how affordable regenerative medicine treatments can be.

Who May Benefit

  • Pain that has not improved with rest, physical therapy, or medication
  • Mild to moderate arthritis
  • Chronic tendon or ligament problems
  • A goal of delaying or avoiding surgery

Results vary, and orthobiologics are not right for every condition. Your physician will explain which option, if any, fits.

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Conditions

Conditions Our Physicians Evaluate

Osteoarthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, rotator cuff problems, and back pain are common reasons patients ask about orthobiologics.

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

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Peter Lynde profile picture
Peter Lynde
13 days ago
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Excellent experience with Dr. Farhat at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. Experienced, knowledgeable and patient. I highly recommend him and the Center.
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Cindy Jubeck profile picture
Cindy Jubeck
116 days ago
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Dr Nabity is one of the most caring, patient, & thorough doctors around! Highly recommended he & his team!
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James R profile picture
James R
126 days ago
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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!
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Christopher Micakovic profile picture
Christopher Micakovic
134 days ago
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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.
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Gwendolyn Botardo profile picture
Gwendolyn Botardo
146 days ago
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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
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Tony Coy profile picture
Tony Coy
192 days ago
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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.
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Mary Southway profile picture
Mary Southway
198 days ago
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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.
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Lise Shirtz profile picture
Lise Shirtz
448 days ago
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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!
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Judith Schwagle profile picture
Judith Schwagle
462 days ago
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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!!
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James Grech profile picture
James Grech
569 days ago
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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.
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Sherry Wood profile picture
Sherry Wood
983 days ago
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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)
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Kris Pline profile picture
Kris Pline
1003 days ago
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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!
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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.

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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 a regenerative option fits your condition, your physician provides image-guided treatment in our clinic.

4. Follow-Up

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

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.

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

Thomas Nabity, MD
Board-certified physician

John Santa Ana, DO, board-certified physician

John Santa Ana, DO
Board-certified physician

Robert Farhat, DO, board-certified physician

Robert Farhat, DO
Board-certified physician

Kevin M. Nemeth, MD, board-certified physician

Kevin M. Nemeth, MD
Board-certified physician

John Steele, MD, board-certified physician

John Steele, MD
Board-certified physician

Christopher Hannasch, DO, 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.

Pain Medicine Board Certification

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

IOF Certification Courses

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

IOF Instructors & Training Hub

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

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

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

Electrodiagnostic Medicine

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

American Academy of PM&R

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

Interventional Pain (ASIPP)

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

Orthopaedic Medicine (AAOM)

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

DataBiologics Registry

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

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

Patient Testimonial

FAQ

Regenerative Medicine Questions

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

What does orthobiologics mean?

“Ortho” refers to the musculoskeletal system and “biologics” to materials from living sources, such as your own platelets or cells.

What is in a prolotherapy injection?

A natural sugar (dextrose) solution with a mild anesthetic.

Is regenerative medicine the same as stem cell therapy?

Stem cell therapy is one type of regenerative medicine. PRP and prolotherapy are others. Your physician will explain which fits your condition.

Which conditions are evaluated?

Common examples include osteoarthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, rotator cuff problems, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, and some back and neck conditions.

Are treatments done with imaging?

Yes. Our physicians use ultrasound or fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance to place treatments precisely.

Is there downtime?

These are outpatient procedures. Most patients return to light daily activity soon after, and your physician will give you a plan for exercise and follow-up.

Will I need more than one treatment?

It depends on your diagnosis and how you respond. Some conditions are treated once, while others need a series.

Is regenerative medicine covered by insurance?

Coverage is often limited because many regenerative treatments are considered elective. Our team will give you cost information before you decide.

Where are your clinics?

We have a clinic at 355 Barclay Circle, Suite A, Rochester Hills, MI 48307, (248) 216-1008, and an office at 1000 E. Paris Ave SE, Suite 221, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, (616) 288-1109.

How do I schedule a consultation?

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

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Still Have Questions?

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

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

Keep learning

Related Regenerative Medicine Articles

Pre-eminent Journal Publishes Findings in PRP for Knee Osteoarthritis

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SI Joint Pain After Pregnancy: Why It Lingers and What Actually Helps

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The Role Exosomes Play in Regenerative Medicine

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Next step

Find Out if Regenerative Medicine 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: Regenerative Medicine for Arthritis and Injury Repair

Watch the replay of our physicians’ webinar on regenerative options for arthritis and injuries.

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

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

Grand Rapids Clinic

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

(616) 288-1109

Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm

Areas we serve

Orthobiologic Care in Michigan

Patients visit our Rochester Hills and Grand Rapids clinics from across Michigan.

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