The Evolution of Orthobiologics w/ Dr. John Santa Ana (Ep. #2)
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EPISODE 2
Dr. John Santa Ana, a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician, talks with Nate about how he thought he was leveraging the U.S. Army to get medical school for free but he ended up gaining a new perspective on life and healthcare. They also discuss the injuries of Tiger Woods and Peyton Manning, and how regenerative medicine (#Orthobiologics) is gaining traction as a reliable treatment as physicians gather more data about it.
Revolutionizing Regenerative Medicine: Dr. John Santa Ana’s Journey from Military Physician to Orthobiologics Expert
Dr. John Santa Ana, a board-certified physician specializing in interventional sports joints and spine treatments, has carved a unique path in the medical field. From his early days in the Philippines to establishing a cutting-edge practice in Michigan, his story is one of dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of better patient outcomes.
Dr. Santa Ana's early life in the Philippines and subsequent move to Michigan set the stage for a career marked by diverse experiences and profound insights. After completing his undergraduate studies at Wayne State University, he initially ventured into nutrition before discovering his true calling in medicine. Influenced by friends and driven by a desire to make a tangible impact, he attended the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, where his passion for emergency medicine and orthopedics began to take shape.
Military Service and Medical Training
Dr. Santa Ana’s journey took a significant turn when he joined the military through the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). This decision not only alleviated the financial burden of medical school but also provided unparalleled training opportunities. His residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, focusing on Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), exposed him to high-level athletes and a diverse range of medical challenges, further honing his skills.
During his medical school rotations, Dr. Santa Ana discovered PMR, a specialty that aligned perfectly with his interests in functional anatomy and non-surgical procedures. PMR’s emphasis on improving patients' functional abilities and addressing musculoskeletal issues resonated deeply with him, leading to a fulfilling career helping individuals regain their mobility and quality of life.
The Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine
Dr. Santa Ana now practices at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine, where he combines his extensive military and medical experience. His practice operates on a hybrid insurance and cash-based model, allowing him to spend more time with each patient, thoroughly explaining their options and enabling informed decisions. This patient-centric approach is a cornerstone of his philosophy, ensuring that each individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs.
Orthobiologics Treatment
A significant part of Dr. Santa Ana’s practice involves orthobiologics and regenerative medicine. These innovative treatments, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), and stem cell therapy, offer less invasive alternatives to traditional surgeries. Dr. Santa Ana’s expertise in these cutting-edge therapies has resulted in numerous positive outcomes for his patients, from athletes to individuals with chronic pain.
Despite the promising potential of regenerative medicine, Dr. Santa Ana acknowledges the challenges in gaining widespread acceptance, particularly due to the lack of insurance coverage and educational exposure in medical schools. However, he remains a steadfast advocate, working tirelessly to change perceptions and increase awareness of these therapies' effectiveness.
Looking ahead, Dr. Santa Ana envisions significant advancements in orthobiologics, such as the ability to replicate and replace damaged tissues using patients' own proteins. This would reduce the need for synthetic materials and lower the risk of rejection. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of seeking second opinions, both in medical treatments and financial planning, to ensure well-rounded and informed decision-making. Dr. John Santa Ana’s journey from a young boy in the Philippines to a pioneering physician in Michigan embodies the spirit of innovation and compassion. His dedication to advancing regenerative medicine and improving patient outcomes continues to inspire, offering hope and healing to those in need. As the field of orthobiologics evolves, Dr. Santa Ana’s contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the future of medicine.
Dr. John Santa Ana
Dr. John Santa Ana is board-certified in PM&R and electrodiagnostic medicine and specializes in interventional sports, joints, and spine treatments. He received his medical degree at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and his specialty training in PM&R at The Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
He is a veteran and was a proud physician in the U.S. Army, treating our nation’s heroes’ musculoskeletal conditions and getting them back in the fight. He brings this same knowledge and skill set to his patients in his community.
Learn more about Dr. John Santa Ana at https://regenerativemedicinemichigan.com.
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