Regenerative Agents1

What is Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M)?

Alpha-2-Macroglobulin is found the blood and is a major non-nonimmunoglobulin (immune system molecule) protein found in plasma protein. A2M is a broad spectrum multi-purpose portease inhibitor that can inactivate a variety of proteinases (break down proteins) that can degrade cartilage cells or chondrocytes, which is one of the many causes of Osteoarthritis (OA). By inhibiting portease, Alpha-2Macroglobulin (A2M) can ameliorate the progression of osteoarthritis by preventing cartilage from breakdown—which translates to a decrease in pain and improvement in joint function.

How does it work?

A2M works by inhibiting 3 specific protein classes: Cytokines, Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMP’s) and ADAMTS which degrade cartilage over time. Alpha-2Macroglobulin (A2M) injections can inhibit the progression of Osteoarthritis (OA) by protecting cartilage from breakdown and immune-system mediated destruction. This allows joints to be protected from Osteoarthritis (OA) by promoting tissue growth, and supporting cartilage restoration of the affected joint.

How is it created?

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What conditions benefit?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common health problem that can cause knee pain, back pain, Post Traumatic OA, or other joint conditions. Temporary relief from the pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) can generally be achieved with non-surgical/regenerative treatment options. Highly concentrated injections of Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M) can impact the progression of the disease and potentially reverse it. Alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) binds to the chemicals produced in the joints that degrade cartilage over time and neutralizes their degenerative effect. Alpah-2-Macroglobulin (A2M) can:

  • Stop the breakdown of cartilage and prevent cartilage loss
  • Halt the progression of osteoarthritis
  • Reduce the pain caused by osteoarthritis
  • Improve joint function
  • Promotes tissue growth
  • Support the restoration of affected joint(s)

Platelet Growth Factor Concentrate FAQs

Do injections hurt?

The level of discomfort of the treatment depends in part on the area being treated. For example, injections into a joint often are minimally uncomfortable and in some cases painless. Injections into tendons and joint capsules tend to be more uncomfortable. There is usually moderate pain for the next few days. In cases where large numbers of injections will be completed, Dr. Hanson will perform a regional nerve block to reduce pain during and after the injection.

We provide oral sedation, aromatherapy, and oxygen to help with pain and anxiety during an injection. In addition, we have a master Reiki practitioner who is available to perform energy healing before or after a procedure.

When can I expect to see improvement?

On average, most patients start to see signs of improvement anywhere from 2-8 weeks after treatment. This can be less overall pain, an ability to do more activity before pain sets in, and/or faster recovery from pain.

What are the risks?

Anytime a needle is placed anywhere in the body, even getting blood drawn, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, these are very rare. Other complications, though rare, can occur depending on the area being treated, and will be discussed by your doctor before starting treatment.

What is the success rate?

When using prolotherapy for the appropriate levels of degeneration, the results are very good, studies showing 80-90% success rate. Some patients experience complete relief of their pain. In the case of capsule and ligament injuries, the results are generally permanent in mild cases, moderate cases may need another round of treatments in 1-3 years.