Preparing for Your First Regenexx Procedure: A Step-by-Step Checklist
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Published in The Ospina Orthopedic Blog ~ 4 min read ~ Last Updated: November 16, 2025
Your Role in the Healing Process
Deciding to undergo a regenerative procedure is an exciting step toward reclaiming your active life. Unlike surgery, where the doctor "fixes" you while you sleep, a procedure using Regenexx injectates is a partnership. We provide the advanced technology and expertise, but your body provides the healing agents.
To ensure that your cells are as healthy and potent as possible, preparation is key. Dr. Matthew Kohler and our team at Ospina Medical have compiled this checklist to help you navigate the days leading up to your appointment with confidence.
2 Weeks Before: The Medication Review
Certain medications can interfere with your body’s ability to clot or heal. It is crucial to review your current medications with us.
- Stop NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, and Naproxen) effectively block the inflammation we want to create to stimulate healing. Research shows these drugs can inhibit platelet aggregation and growth factor release. You typically need to stop these at least 7-14 days prior to your procedure, but make sure to confirm the timeline with your provider.
- Review Steroids: If you are taking oral steroids (like prednisone) or have had a recent steroid injection, let us know immediately, as these can negatively impact stem cell health and viability.
- Supplements: Some supplements (like fish oil, turmeric, or high-dose Vitamin E) can thin the blood. We will guide you on which ones to pause.
1 Week Before: Hydrate and Nourish
Your cells need a healthy environment to thrive.
- Hydration is Heroic: A bone marrow aspiration or blood draw is much easier when you are well-hydrated. Aim to drink plenty of water (64 oz/day) in the days leading up to your visit. Keep in mind, this likely doesn’t include the 8 hours leading up to your procedure.
- Clean Eating: Focus on whole foods. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which can increase systemic inflammation and potentially lower the quality of your cells. Some protocols suggest specific supplements like Curcumin or Omega-3s (provided they are stopped a few days before if blood thinning is a concern) to support the host environment.
The Day Before: Logistics
- Arrange a Driver: Depending on the site of your injection and whether you are receiving a mild sedative, you may need a friend or family member to drive you home.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated (e.g., shorts for a knee procedure).
- Pharmacy Run: Pick up any post-procedure braces or prescribed medications Dr. Kohler has ordered for you so they are ready at home.
Procedure Day: What to Expect
- Fasting: If you are having a bone marrow aspiration or receiving sedation, you may be asked to fast and avoid liquids for up to 8 hours prior to the procedure.
- Relax: You are in expert hands. Our team uses high-tech imaging to guide every step, ensuring maximum comfort and precision.
The "Regenexx Difference" Preparation
Understanding this timeline helps you plan your preceding weeks and work schedule accordingly. By following these steps, you are setting the stage for the best possible outcome. We look forward to welcoming you to Ospina Medical and starting this journey together.
A Riley Publication ~ Branded Thought Leadership by Riley Partners and Publications, Inc.
Medically Reviewed by: Matthew Kohler, MD