Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
Cells drawn from your own bone marrow, concentrated and delivered to a damaged joint or tendon to support repair.
What it involves
Marrow is aspirated from the pelvis with a needle under local anesthetic, concentrated in the office, then injected into the target area. It carries a richer mix of cells and signaling factors than PRP.
Who it helps
- +Arthritis that has progressed beyond early stage
- +Stubborn tendon or cartilage problems
- +As a supplement during certain arthroscopic procedures
Recovery
Soreness at the aspiration site for several days. A staged return to loading over four to six weeks is typical.
In the office
BMAC is selected in the context of your imaging, tissue condition and surgical options, then paired with physician-directed therapy so the tissue is loaded appropriately while it heals.
Common questions
Is the marrow aspiration painful?+
The skin and bone surface are well numbed. You feel pressure and a brief deep pull as the marrow is drawn. Most people describe it as uncomfortable for a few seconds rather than painful.
Is BMAC better than PRP?+
Not automatically — it is different. BMAC carries a wider mix of cells and signaling factors and is generally reserved for more advanced cartilage and tendon problems, or as an addition during surgery.
Will this regrow my cartilage?+
No honest surgeon promises that. The realistic goal is a calmer, better-functioning joint and a slower course, not new cartilage on an X-ray.
Can it be done at the same time as surgery?+
Yes. For selected arthroscopic procedures, BMAC is harvested and applied during the same anesthetic.
Not sure this is your path?
Two quick questions will point you to a sensible starting point.
Other treatments
PRP
A concentrate made from your own blood, injected into an irritated tendon, ligament or joint to support the body's own healing response.
Non-surgicalMicrofat
A small amount of your own fat tissue, gently processed and placed into a painful joint to cushion and calm irritated surfaces.
Non-surgicalShockwave
Non-invasive acoustic energy directed at a painful tendon or bone to stimulate blood flow and reduce chronic pain.
Non-surgicalLaser therapy
High-power therapeutic laser — photobiomodulation — that reaches deep tissue to calm inflammation, ease pain and support repair. No needles, no anesthetic, no downtime.
Non-surgicalConservative care
The first line of treatment for most joint and tendon problems: activity modification, anti-inflammatories or acetaminophen, ice, bracing or a cane when helpful, and physician-directed physical therapy.
SurgicalArthroscopy
Small-incision joint surgery using a camera and precise instruments — for repair work that biologics and therapy cannot reach.
SurgicalShoulder reconstruction
Rebuilding a shoulder that has lost its stability or its cuff — from anchor-suture repair to complex revision and instability surgery.
Non-surgical & surgicalShoulder arthritis
A worn shoulder joint doesn't have to mean giving up what you love. Care ranges from therapy and biologic injections to total shoulder replacement when the joint is truly worn out.
Non-surgical & surgicalKnee cartilage care
A joint-preserving approach to knee cartilage problems, from therapy and orthobiologics to arthroscopic repair or cartilage restoration when needed.
Non-surgicalSports medicine & longevity
Care for active adults who want to stay in the game, protect their joints and perform at their best — from injury prevention to recovery and long-term resilience.
General information only — not medical advice. Your plan is confirmed in person after an exam and imaging review.