As most sports fans in the Philadelphia area are aware, the Philadelphia 76ers recently completed a blockbuster trade, netting them star center Andrew Bynum from the Los Angeles Lakers. These same fans are also likely aware that Bynum is heading to Germany for a procedure on his troublesome knees which is currently not available in the United States.
In the past, Bynum has had multiple problems with his knees, including a dislocated knee cap, a torn MCL and a torn meniscus. Though he seemed to be fairly healthy last season, Bynum desires this treatment. The procedure Bynum will be having is not approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, which is why he must travel to Germany to get this care.
The treatment at issue here is called Regenokine Therapy. While it is said to be beneficial to knees, it is also alleged to help with low back pain and other conditions, including osteoarthritis. Other athletes to have undergone Regenokine Therapy reportedly include the Lakers’ Kobe Bryant and the Yankees’ Alex Rodriguez.
In Regenokine Therapy, according to the website for the actual provider, blood is taken from the patient’s body and treated to extract certain elements within the blood. Additional compounds may then be added to the solution before it is injected back into the patient. Since this procedure is not readily available, reportedly, it is typically paid for by the patient, at the rate of between $7,400 and $9,000, per knee.
This concept is exciting for the injured worker in PA, as well as throughout the United States. As the research continues, and the process obtains FDA approval, this procedure could lead to relief for pain from work related injuries, not only to the knee, but for other areas of the body.