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Dr. Ramon Castellanos, a pain-management physician based on South Miami, Fla., was recently tasked to review a stack of articles he had penned over the years about the incredible potential of stem cells.
After sifting through hundreds of articles and papers, he deemed it a worthy exercise indeed – because it allowed Dr. Castellanos to genuinely reflect upon the ongoing evolution of his appreciation and dedication to the power of stem cell therapies. Following is what he shared:
When I first encountered stem cells 17 years ago, my knowledge was limited to what I had learned in my histology classes. However, it didn’t take long for fate – or perhaps it was divine intervention – to open my mind to the amazing world of stem cells. I quickly realized that I was in the presence of something truly extraordinary.
My journey began with small blood cells mixed with platelets, a treatment that was relatively unknown at the time but is now commonly referred to as Platelet-Rich Plasma or PRP. I witnessed the positive effects of stem cell implants on chronic painful conditions like arthritis in the shoulders, knees, hips, and spine – although the results were not long-lasting.
Around 15 years ago, with the help of the first stem cell “think tank,” I began collecting true stem cells from within the bones, known as BMAC or bone marrow cells. Later on, I also began collecting stem cells from fat harvested through liposuction. I even remember performing liposuction on my hips to obtain my own stem cells, long before it became a popular cosmetic procedure known as the Brazilian Butt Lift.
The combination of these autologous cells proved to be 10 times more effective than blood and PRP alone. I discovered a phenomenon that I called “stem cell lineage synergy,” where different stem cells had the potential to enhance each other’s capabilities.
Throughout my career, I have published research and instructed other physicians in my field, all the while achieving an overall satisfaction rate exceeding 75 percent among the 15,000 patients I’ve treated.
In 2016, fate once again intervened when I inadvertently stumbled upon a biotech firm producing placenta-derived stem cells for ophthalmic diseases. I tried out this product on arthritic and painful conditions that had not responded to traditional treatments or surgeries. To my amazement, it worked!
I have since utilized this incredible product derived from placenta stem cells in thousands of our patients with re- markable success – especially in individuals over 70 who do in fact experience a decline in their own stem cell production.
Notably, I have also had the privilege of successfully treating numerous professional athletes across a wide range of sports, even some Hall of Famers. Additionally, I had the honor of treating prominent artists, musicians, and politicians. However, my greatest satisfaction comes from helping everyday people who are overwhelmingly grateful for the life-changing effects of these miraculous cells.
While there has been much hearsay regarding our methods, which involve minimal manipulation of autologous stem cells from bone marrow and fat, it is important to note that they are exempt from FDA regulations. Furthermore, the placenta-derived product we use has undergone extensive studies in which I personally participated, ensuring its safety and efficacy through adherence to Good Manufacturing Product (GMP) standards.
In the spirit of transparency, I have personally undergone this treatment multiple times for my own sports-related injuries and have experienced tremendous results. However, there remains one vexing concern that continues to bother me after 17 years of practice: Why is it insurance companies still do not cover treatments, that’s been proven to be safe, highly effective, and affordable. By embracing these therapies
Dr. Castellanos is a pioneer in Regenerative Medicine and stem cell in the field of orthopedics, spine and pain management. He is currently double board certified.
For information, call 305-250-2355. Follow Dr. Ramon Castellanos on
Facebook @usastemcell and Instagram @usastemcell
