• Home
  • About
    • About
    • Blog
    • Contact
  • Providers
  • Patients
    • Patient Portal
    • Patient Forms
    • Schedule Appointment
  • Services
    • Sports Medicine & non-surgical Orthopedics
      • PRP Injections
      • MFAT Injections
      • Prolotherapy
      • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
      • Chiropractic
      • Physical Therapy
      • Shockwave Therapy
      • Massage Therapy
      • MSK Ultrasound
      • Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Hydrodissection
    • Functional Medicine
      • IV Nutritional Therapy
      • Neurofeedback
      • Acupuncture
      • Nutrition
      • Hormone testing & Functional Labs
      • Massage Therapy
    • Aesthetics
      • Look Better Membership
      • PRP + PRF Skin Rejuvenation
      • PRP + PRF Hair Restoration
      • Injectables
      • Cosmetic Laser
      • Advanced Aesthetics & Clinical Skincare
      • Clinical Skincare
  • Shop Products
    • SkinBetter Science
    • Epionce Skincare
    • Fullscript Supplements
  • About
    • About
    • Blog
    • Contact
  • Providers
  • Patients
    • Patient Portal
    • Patient Forms
    • Schedule Appointment
  • Services
    • Sports Medicine & non-surgical Orthopedics
      • PRP Injections
      • MFAT Injections
      • Prolotherapy
      • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
      • Chiropractic
      • Physical Therapy
      • Shockwave Therapy
      • Massage Therapy
      • MSK Ultrasound
      • Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Hydrodissection
    • Functional Medicine
      • IV Nutritional Therapy
      • Neurofeedback
      • Acupuncture
      • Nutrition
      • Hormone testing & Functional Labs
      • Massage Therapy
    • Aesthetics
      • Look Better Membership
      • PRP + PRF Skin Rejuvenation
      • PRP + PRF Hair Restoration
      • Injectables
      • Cosmetic Laser
      • Advanced Aesthetic Services
      • Clinical Skincare
  • Shop Products
    • SkinBetter Science
    • Epionce Skincare
    • Fullscript Supplements
  • 503-232-5653
  • Schedule Now
  • Request Consultation

Understanding Regenerative Injection Therapy

By FoRM Health | March 12, 2025

By Dr. Ryan Minarik, LAc

A Guide to Pain Relief and Injury Recovery

Regenerative Injection Therapy (RIT) is a non-surgical treatment designed to promote healing and reduce pain by stimulating the body’s natural repair processes.

Techniques such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Prolotherapy, and Microfragmented Adipose Tissue (MFAT) use the body’s own biological materials to enhance tissue regeneration, potentially benefiting those with joint pain, tendon injuries, or chronic inflammation.  Dr. Minarik and his team have over 18 years experience in orthopedic and sports medicine injections, treating thousands of patients with these advanced therapies.  So we have plenty of clinical cases to support their effectiveness but let’s delve into some supporting research that suggests that RIT can help improve function and aid recovery in conditions like arthritis and sports injuries (there’s plenty, but for brevity we’ve highlighted a few below).

Supporting Research

A 2024 narrative review highlighted that PRP therapy might enhance healing in meniscal injuries, with studies under one year showing significant improvements in knee symptoms and daily activities [1]. Research from 2022 demonstrated that PRP injections significantly reduced pain and improved functional scores in knee osteoarthritis patients over six months [2]. A 2024 study indicated that higher platelet concentrations in PRP injections correlated with better clinical outcomes, suggesting that optimizing platelet dose could enhance treatment effectiveness [3]. Additionally, a 2021 study found that a single PRP injection provided significant pain relief and functional improvement in early knee osteoarthritis patients, with effects lasting up to one year [4].

There is also growing evidence suggesting that PRP may contribute to cartilage regeneration. A 2022 study found that intra-articular PRP injections led to significant improvements in pain, joint stiffness, and daily activities for knee osteoarthritis patients, while also contributing to cartilage repair and regeneration, as observed through ultrasonography [5]. A review published the same year highlighted that most studies reported PRP having a positive effect on cartilage injuries and joint function [6].

PRP has also been extensively studied for tendon healing, with research demonstrating its effectiveness in treating partial tendon tears. Studies have shown that PRP injections can reduce tear size and improve function in conditions such as partial supraspinatus tendon tears [7] and Achilles tendon injuries [8]. A systematic review also suggests that PRP may help alleviate pain in rotator cuff tendinopathy [9], while case reports highlight its potential for accelerating recovery in professional athletes with partial tendon ruptures.

Prolotherapy has been around since the 1950s (!) and is a remarkably simple but highly effective technique using concentrated dextrose.  As a result, studies are limited with lack of drug company funding, but an older study demonstrated a significant increase in both the mass and thickness of ligaments following prolotherapy treatments, as confirmed through microscopic analysis [10]. Prolotherapy has also been shown to promote ligament repair by thickening and tightening ligaments, as well as strengthening the ligament-bone interface, known as the fibro-osseous junction [11]. These studies suggest that prolotherapy may be an effective non-surgical option for individuals experiencing ligament laxity or chronic musculoskeletal pain where ligaments are weakened or degenerating.

Another promising regenerative therapy is Microfragmented Adipose Tissue (MFAT). This treatment involves harvesting a patient’s fat tissue, which is then processed to isolate regenerative cells that can aid in tissue repair. Unlike traditional stem cell therapy, MFAT preserves the natural environment of these cells, allowing them to function more effectively. Studies have shown that MFAT injections may help reduce pain and improve function in osteoarthritis patients by providing cushioning and promoting joint healing [12]. Ongoing research continues to explore its potential for long-term cartilage regeneration, joint preservation, and tendon, ligament, labral, and meniscal repair.

What about Exosomes, Peptides, or Umbilical Cord Stem Cells?

While regenerative medicine continues to evolve, FoRM Health does not currently use exosomes, peptide injections, or umbilical cord stem cells for orthopedic conditions due to several key reasons. First, legal regulations surrounding these treatments remain unclear, and the FDA has not approved them for orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions outside of clinical trials [13]. Second, there is a lack of high-quality, peer-reviewed human studies demonstrating their safety and efficacy for these applications. Most available research is either preclinical or limited in scope, making it difficult to determine consistent, reliable outcomes. Lastly, efficacy concerns remain, as current data does not conclusively show that these treatments provide superior benefits compared to established options like PRP, prolotherapy, and MFAT. At FoRM Health, we prioritize evidence-based therapies backed by rigorous scientific research to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.  As research evolves, however, we may offer one or more of these therapies so stay tuned!

The FoRM Approach

Because the effectiveness of RIT depends on both the severity and specific condition being treated, FoRM Health requires a comprehensive exam and intake prior to performing any procedures. Complementary treatments like physical therapy or chiropractic rehab, as well as necessary surgical consults, are always considered.  This ensures that each patient receives a personalized approach tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, diagnostic ultrasound plays a crucial role in evaluating soft tissue injuries and guiding treatment decisions. Image-guided injections further enhance precision, ensuring that regenerative therapies are delivered accurately to the targeted areas, maximizing their effectiveness and potential benefits.  Finally, we optimize our results further by using high-dose PRP for optimal platelet concentration and FDA-cleared processing devices for safety.

Contact our front desk today for more information or schedule a visit to treat that chronic injury or arthritis that just isn’t going away so you can Move Better and Feel Better!

References

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36813547/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35189154/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37456894/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33842442/
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35689457/
  6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35147447/
  7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9908802/
  8. https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/4973
  9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6339617/
  10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6887078/
  11. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27011787/
  12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32412345/
  13. https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/safety-availability-biologics/public-safety-notification-exosome-products

Recent Posts

Regenerative Medicine Portland Oregon

Am I a Good Candidate for Regenerative Medicine?

PRP Injections Portland

5 Ways to Get the Best Results from Orthopedic PRP Injections

Build Muscle, Age Better – The Role of Muscle in Healthy Aging and Longevity

Skin Goals + Preventing Sick Days? You Can Do Both – Key Nutrients That Boost Immunity and your Skin’s Glow 

SKIN CLUES & BEAUTY BLUES: What Acne, Redness & Puffiness Are Trying to Tell You about your Health!

READY to FEEL Better?

Receive our FREE (+ delicious) 5-day anti-inflammatory meal plan when you join our community

*By providing your email address here, you are opting in to receive our monthly newsletter

Welcome Fall 🍁🍂— finally…back to cozy ro Welcome Fall 🍁🍂— finally…back to cozy routines, cooler mornings, and a chance to properly decompress ☕️📖

As we embrace the beginning of Fall, we wanted to give Summer a proper send off with photo dump of seasonal highlights 📸.

Our FoRM providers packed this season full: social get-togethers, golf (and yes, more golf), lake days + beach bonfires, long nights + bike rides, family trips + touring, outdoor concerts + sporting events — and some good trouble in Vegas runs. We came back sun-kissed, tired in the best way, and smarter for the pause.

Bring on the cooler mornings, steady rhythms, and the work we love. If your reset requires a little professional help, we’ve got you. #FoRMHealth #FallReset 
#formhealth #formhealthpdx #functionalmedicine #regenerativemedicine #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #feelbettermovebetterlookbetter #TopForm #sellwoodmoreland #portlandoregonclinic #integrativemedicine #feelbetter #movebetter #lookbetter
✨ Physical Therapy, the FoRM way ✨
 At FoRM ✨ Physical Therapy, the FoRM way ✨

At FoRM Health, PT isn’t just a list of prescribed exercises.
Our highly-experienced Physical Therapist, Dr. Joanne Siegel DPT, has a very “hands-on” practice!

She starts with a comprehensive, hands-on re-evaluation—spending a full 60 min with every new and return patient to uncover what’s really going on.

Every PT session includes hands-on manual therapy to address dysfunction, reduce pain, and restore mobility before even talking exercises.

Only then does she create a custom movement plan that’s strategic, sustainable, and specific to you.

📍This is PT designed to actually get you better.

#FoRMHealth #PhysicalTherapy #SportsMedicine #ManualTherapy #InjuryRecovery #MoveBetter #RegenerativeMedicine #HolisticHealth #PortlandHealthcare #sellwoodmoreland
We’re *shocked* at how well these acoustic waves We’re *shocked* at how well these acoustic waves work! 😉 

🔊 🔊 🔊 

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues, reduce pain, + improve mobility. By promoting blood flow, reducing scarring, & accelerating tissue repair, Shockwave therapy supports the body’s natural healing processes, helping you recover faster with minimal downtime! 

Ideal for any tendinopathy (tendinitis, tendinosis, calcifications), plantar fasciitis, general pain associated with fascial adhesions/scarring, + nerve pain.

@drbinshaieg used shockwave therapy & took our nutritionist’s tennis elbow from a 5 to 1 pain level in ONE treatment. 🙌 

Want to learn more? 
🔗 in bio
📞 503 232 5653

#movebetter #shockwavetherapy #formhealthpdx #sportsmedicine #feelbetter #regenerativemedicine #orthopedicsportland #functionalmedicine
Meet Dr. Brittany Krake, ND 🌿 Regenerative Med Meet Dr. Brittany Krake, ND 🌿

Regenerative Medicine + Functional Hormone Specialist @formhealthpdx 

We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Brittany Krake ND to the FoRM family!👏🏽
⁠
Dr. Brittany is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor with advanced training in Regenerative Orthopedic Medicine—including ultrasound-guided Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections—to help patients recover from chronic pain and acute injuries.
She also specializes in Functional Medicine and hormone health, guiding patients through every stage of hormonal change—from reproductive health and perimenopause to menopause and andropause—helping them regain balance, energy, and resilience.

Her whole-person approach blends cutting-edge regenerative therapies, hormone optimization, and lifestyle medicine to support healing, recovery, and long-term vitality.

We’re so excited to have her expertise here at FoRM to help our patients move, feel, and live better 💪✨

📍 Now accepting new patients
📌 Insurance credentialing expected Fall 2025

#FoRMHealth #RegenerativeMedicine #PRP #OrthopedicMedicine #FunctionalMedicine #HormoneHealth #WomensHealth #MensHealth #SportsMedicine #InjuryRecovery #PRPinjections #Prolotherapy #ChronicPainRelief #MoveBetter #IntegrativeMedicine #NaturopathicMedicine #PacificNorthwestHealth #PRPforInjuries #HormoneOptimization #FeelBetterLiveBetter
Summer Fun, Meet Fall Recovery 🏃‍♀️💪 Summer Fun, Meet Fall Recovery 🏃‍♀️💪

Time to focus on recovery! FoRM's Rehab program includes #prp #mfat #shockwave #sportchiropractic #physicaltherapy #dryneedling 

Schedule with one of our Naturopathic Doctors who specialize in Sports Medicine for a thorough exam and customized rehabilitation plan!
📣 TESTIMONIAL 📣 Whether you’re recovering 📣 TESTIMONIAL 📣

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to improve your movement, our Doctor of Physical Therapy, Joanne Siegel, combines her decades-long expertise with a focus on long-term wellness!

💪 Personalized rehab plans
💪 A whole-body approach to healing
💪 Functional movement and injury prevention

We love hearing these glowing reviews from Dr. Siegel’s patients. Reach out to us to learn more about her practice and start your personalized Rehab plan! 

📞 503-232-5653
🔗 in bio!
FoRM providers kicked back this week for our month FoRM providers kicked back this week for our monthly book club 📚—this month’s pick: The Blacktongue Thief by Christopher Buehlman. We gathered at @oranmormead in Sellwood, a new local spot, to swap insights (and laughs) over mead. 🍯✨

We love supporting local businesses while building community with our team.

#FoRMHealth #BookClub #sellwoodmoreland 
@sblaney22 @drcaitlanreadhead @constant_balance_acupuncture @colburn.natasha
Reclaim your health routine! Sleep, Stress, Move + Reclaim your health routine! Sleep, Stress, Move + Eat better with services @formhealthpdx.com
#naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #hormonehealth #functionalnutrition #acupuncture #chiropracticcare #sleepbetter
Cool things happen in Vegas…🎲 Last month, Dr. Cool things happen in Vegas…🎲
Last month, Dr. Ryan Minarik joined a select group of regenerative medicine specialists in Las Vegas to develop a trailblazing PRP study with @apex_biologix. 

Dr. Ryan and his @apex-biologix advisory board colleagues are on a mission to progress the field of orthopedic regenerative medicine!

Another exciting development, FoRM’s team of regenerative specialists will be expanding Fall 2025! Big things ahead 👏🏽👏🏽 @drbrittanykrake 

#PRP #RegenerativeMedicine #OrthoBiologics #prpinjection #prpfacial #prphairrestoration
These are our skin experts’ favorite products to These are our skin experts’ favorite products to use through summer ☀️(+ beyond) to keep their skin healthy & glowy:

🧴 Alto Advanced Defense Serum → Antioxidants + Vitamin C = major UV protection

🌞 Sunbetter SPF 68 or ToneSmart Compact → Tinted Mineral-based sunscreen, makes for a great base, always in our bags.

Caution ⛔️ with Retinols as they can make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage!

#SummerSkin #SPFEveryDay #FoRMFavorites
#lookbetter #sunprotection #uvdamage #agedefying #skinrehab #formhealthyhabits #formhealth
Most of us love our sunny summer days in the Pacif Most of us love our sunny summer days in the Pacific Northwest, but too much sun has its downside. 

Here are a few tips for protect and recovering from too much 🌞 

PROTECT
Always wear sunscreen on all sun-exposed skin when out and about. We recommend a mineral-based SPF 50+ and wearing coverage like hats and sun-shirts for even better protection.

FoRM favorite SPF for your face:
– Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 (now on online sale)
– SunBetter Tone Smart SPF 75 (available at FoRM)

RESET
If your skin is desiccated and discolored from the sun, consider a 
much-needed reset with our Custom Combo Facial—a summer favorite that includes gentle exfoliation, hydration infusion, skin-barrier healing mask + LED light therapy.

Included in the CUSTOM COMBO (summer edition)

✨Enzyme mask for build up (sweat, SPF)
✨Bt-micro ultrasonic exfoliation
✨Hydroderm (hyperpigmentation + hydration)
✨Microcurrent with vitamin C serum
✨Cooling and soothing mask 
✨Red + Green LED (cell renew + hyperpigmentation) 
✨Moisturizer and SPF

Schedule with O’Brien using using link in bio

#formhealth #formhealthpdx #TopForm #lookbetter #sellwoodmoreland #naturalaesthetics #healthyisbeautiful #agedefy #Skinrehab #glowup #SkinRejuvenation #PRFskinrejuvenation #naturalbeauty #microneedling #ipl #iplfacial #photorejuvenation #botox #biotherapeutic #advancedaesthetician #skinbetterscience #epionce #dermaplaning #microcurrent #hydrodermabrasion #nofilterneeded
It’s the season of fun in the sun! 😎 We hope It’s the season of fun in the sun! 😎 We hope you’re enjoying your bevvies waterside with a splash of ELECTROLYTES. 🧂 

Even if you’re not a competitive athlete — electrolytes need to be on your radar! 🚨 Whether you’re hiking in the back country, crushing a gym sesh, or lounging in the sun .. here’s why you need ‘em:

💧 HYDRATION they help us actually absorb the water we’re sippin’ 
💧MUSCLES electrolytes help with fatigue, cramping and recovery 
💧BRAIN they are key for nerve signaling and can even help with that pesky 3pm brain fog 
💧SLEEP magnesium helps us to relax & feel calmer 

Ideally, you’re having electrolytes with sodium, potassium + magnesium & least amount of ingredients. Look out for hidden sugars in lots of the mainstream brands! 👀 
Add them to plain water OR sneak them into a fun sparkling drink like @drinkolipop 

The ones we like:
@tracemineralsresearch 
@drinklmnt 
@ancientnutrition 

Cheers to feeling better this Summer! 🤸 

#hydration #electrolytes #feelbetter #functionalnutrition #funinthesun #movebetter #formhealthpdx

Site Menu

  • About
  • Services
  • Providers
  • Blog
  • Contact

Patient Menu

  • New Patients
  • Patient Portal
  • Schedule Appointment
  • Contact

Phone

(503) 232-5653

Fax

(503) 234-6094

Hours

Mon–Fri 9am-6pm
Saturday 10am-2pm

Office

FoRM Health
8113 SE 13th Ave
Portland, Oregon
97202

Location

Conveniently located in the beautiful Sellwood neighborhood of Southeast Portland.  Easy access to the Lake Oswego, Oregon City and the entire Portland Metro.

Copyright © 2025 FoRM Health. All Rights Reserved.

Get our newsletter