Seeking Patients with Shoulder Arthritis for an Innovative Regenerative Medicine Study
Shoulder osteoarthritis can significantly impact quality of life, making everyday activities such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, exercising, and even sleeping uncomfortable. While conventional treatments often focus on symptom management through medications, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or ultimately joint replacement surgery, regenerative medicine offers exciting possibilities aimed at supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Oregon Regenerative Medicine is launching a new clinical study to evaluate an innovative biologic treatment approach for shoulder osteoarthritis using a combination of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and A2M Protein Concentrate (Alpha-2-Macroglobulin).
We are currently seeking qualified participants who are interested in helping advance the field of regenerative medicine while gaining access to a promising investigational treatment.
Understanding Shoulder Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down over time. In the shoulder, this can lead to:
- Pain with movement
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Grinding or clicking sensations
- Difficulty reaching overhead
- Sleep disruption due to shoulder discomfort
- Progressive loss of function
Although shoulder replacement surgery can be highly effective for advanced cases, many patients seek less invasive options that may help reduce pain, improve function, and potentially slow degenerative processes.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma, commonly known as PRP, is created from a sample of a patient’s own blood. The blood is processed to concentrate platelets, which are rich in growth factors and biologically active proteins involved in tissue repair and healing.
When injected into injured or degenerative tissues, PRP delivers a concentrated source of these natural signaling molecules. Research suggests PRP may help reduce inflammation, support tissue health, and improve pain and function in a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
PRP has become one of the most widely studied and utilized orthobiologic treatments for conditions such as knee osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, ligament injuries, and joint degeneration.
What Is Alpha-2-Macroglobulin?
A2M Protein Concentrate is a specialized biologic preparation derived from a patient’s own blood. It contains high concentrations of naturally occurring proteins, including Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M).
Alpha-2-Macroglobulin functions as a broad-spectrum proteinase inhibitor. In simple terms, it acts as a protective “molecular trap” that binds to and neutralizes enzymes capable of breaking down cartilage and other joint tissues.
These destructive enzymes are often elevated in arthritic joints and may contribute to ongoing degeneration. By concentrating Alpha-2-Macroglobulin and delivering it directly into the affected joint, researchers hope to create a more favorable environment for joint preservation and symptom improvement.
While Protein Concentrate and A2M therapies remain relatively novel compared with PRP, early research and clinical experience have generated considerable interest in their potential role in osteoarthritis treatment.
Why Combine PRP and A2M Concentrate?
PRP and A2M Concentrate may offer complementary mechanisms of action.
PRP provides growth factors and biologic signals that may support healing and tissue homeostasis. A2M provides elevated levels of Alpha-2-Macroglobulin and other beneficial proteins that may help reduce the activity of cartilage-degrading enzymes within the joint.
The rationale behind combining these therapies is straightforward:
- PRP may help stimulate regenerative and anti-inflammatory pathways.
- A2M may help protect joint tissues from ongoing enzymatic breakdown.
- Together, they may provide a synergistic approach to addressing both symptoms and underlying biologic processes associated with osteoarthritis.
Despite growing interest in both therapies individually, very little research has evaluated the combination of PRP and A2M Concentrate for shoulder osteoarthritis. This study aims to help fill that knowledge gap.
About the Study
Participants will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility. Qualified participants will receive ultrasound-guided treatment and will be monitored over time to assess changes in:
- Pain levels
- Shoulder function
- Range of motion
- Patient satisfaction
- Overall quality of life
The information gathered may help advance our understanding of biologic treatments for shoulder arthritis and contribute to the development of future treatment protocols.
Who May Be a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for the study if you:
- Have been diagnosed with shoulder osteoarthritis
- Experience persistent shoulder pain or stiffness
- Have not achieved satisfactory relief from conservative treatments
- Are interested in non-surgical treatment options
- Are willing to participate in study follow-up assessments
A consultation and medical evaluation will be necessary to determine whether participation is appropriate.
Interested in Participating?
At Oregon Regenerative Medicine, we are committed to advancing the science of regenerative medicine while providing patients with access to cutting-edge biologic therapies.
If you have shoulder osteoarthritis and would like to learn whether you may qualify for this research study, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Terrance Manning, ND, RMSK.
During your visit, Dr. Manning will review your medical history, imaging studies, current symptoms, and treatment goals to determine whether participation may be appropriate.
To learn more or schedule an evaluation, contact Oregon Regenerative Medicine today. Together, we can explore whether this innovative research opportunity may be the right fit for your shoulder arthritis treatment journey.
