Introduction

Are you living in pain? Whether it’s joint pain or muscle pain, this program is here to help. Welcome to “Living Pain-Free with Dr. Marc Darrow, MD, and Dr. Thomas Grove, DO,” brought to you by the Stem Cell Institute in West Los Angeles.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Marc Darrow is a board-certified medical doctor, trained at UCLA. He specializes in using stem cell and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies to heal the body. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Darrow teaches about stem cells, PRP, and prolotherapy.

Dr. Thomas Grove is a regenerative medicine specialist and an expert in ultrasound-guided injections. With extensive experience as an athlete and as a strength and conditioning coach, Dr. Grove brings a unique perspective to pain management and recovery.

Program Overview

This program offers effective solutions for the pain you’ve been living with. It’s designed to help you discover new ways to manage and overcome pain, potentially opening up a new life without discomfort.

Dr. Darrow is recognized as a leader in regenerative medicine, particularly in the field of injecting regenerative medicine cells. He was trained at UCLA, where he taught for about 20 years in the science of stem cells and PRP. His expertise includes teaching patients and professionals how to regenerate tissue after an injury and how to avoid surgery when dealing with pain—this is the guiding principle of the show.

Stem Cell Seminar Inquiry and Medical Consultation

Dr. Marc Darrow welcomes Carla and Ben. Carla explains that she and her husband attended a seminar hosted by two women, one of whom is a nurse practitioner. The seminar promoted stem cell injections, claiming that a single infusion and joint shot could eliminate inflammation and cure the issue in one treatment. Carla expresses skepticism about these claims and seeks honest information regarding the real benefits and scientific research behind such treatments.

Discussion of Treatment Claims and Costs

Dr. Darrow clarifies that, generally, an infusion refers to an IV treatment, which may temporarily reduce inflammation and provide relief for a few days. This can be effective for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis with inflamed joints. However, he notes that he has never observed IV infusions leading to lasting healing. He remarks that stem cell treatments are often marketed as a universal remedy, but his experience does not support such broad claims.

He adds that many patients travel abroad to places like Costa Rica, Panama, Mexico, and Thailand for stem cell treatments, often spending significant amounts—sometimes $30,000 to $40,000—despite the procedure itself costing very little. Dr. Darrow questions the justification for these high prices and notes that his practice charges $5,000 per joint injection. Carla asks if this price includes the joint injection, to which Dr. Darrow confirms it does.

Ben notes that his wife would require four injections, and he would need three, plus the cost of the initial IV infusion. Dr. Darrow explains that there is no definitive answer to how many treatments are necessary for healing, as it varies based on the severity and type of condition. For example, some patients with severe arthritis may benefit from a single injection, while those with tendonitis may require multiple treatments.

Personal Experience and Approach

Dr. Darrow shares his personal experience with injuries and treatments, noting his history as a gymnast and athlete. He emphasizes the importance of staying active and mentions that he sometimes injects himself when injured. He cautions against believing claims that are not supported by evidence, commending Carla and Ben for their wise skepticism.

Dr. Darrow inquires about the businessperson behind the seminar Carla attended. Carla recalls that the business was based in Santa Clarita and involved a nurse practitioner performing the injections. Dr. Darrow requests the company name for further investigation and offers to continue the conversation via email. He provides his website, www.stemcellinstitute.com, where callers may email him directly or request a free phone consultation with his staff.

Additional Questions and Medical Concerns

Dr. Darrow invites Carla and Ben to share any specific medical concerns. Carla mentions a partial meniscus tear in her knee and ongoing shoulder pain, which persisted despite physical therapy. She notes that she was advised against surgery, but discomfort remains after nine months.

Dr. Darrow responds with empathy and discusses meniscal tears, explaining that they are often manageable without surgery. He notes that pathology revealed by imaging may not correspond to pain experienced, and many people have meniscal tears without symptoms. He cautions against unnecessary surgery, referencing recent studies indicating that meniscal surgery may be worse than doing nothing.

General Insights on Surgery and Healing

Dr. Darrow provides broader insight into orthopedic surgeries, suggesting that most are unnecessary and performed for the wrong reasons. He stresses the importance of careful diagnosis and conservative treatment, particularly for knee and shoulder injuries. Ben shares his history of an ACL replacement and current shoulder pain, prompting Dr. Darrow to comment that most ACL surgeries are not needed unless the joint is unstable.

He explains his diagnostic approach, relying on ultrasound and hands-on assessment, and cautions against treatments performed by non-MDs or without proper imaging guidance. He reiterates the importance of choosing healthcare providers who prioritize patient well-being and thorough diagnosis.

Positivity and Atmosphere in Dr. Darrow’s Office

Caller Alicia loved hearing what you said about positivity in your office, and I can absolutely say that is 100% true. Your entire staff, from Christine at reception to Dr. Darrow and even the best phlebotomist on the planet, Jeff, are wonderful. Everyone is so positive, and I genuinely look forward to visiting your office. Besides, you always make me laugh, which is always a plus.

Well, I like to laugh because I enjoy bringing joy to others, and I like to be joyful myself. You forgot about six or seven other staff members, but that’s okay—they’re all part of my team. The most important person on your staff, though, is Michelle, of course.

Yes, she is. That’s right—my wife. She’s amazing. We don’t often discuss it on the show, but Michelle does aesthetics, working on the face. She can take platelets or stem cells and apply them for what we call a vampire facelift. Instead of surgery, she helps regrow collagen and helps people look younger. I’m not going to ask, but I know who you are, Alicia.

Yeah. You’re a beautiful woman, and I bet Michelle has been working on you.

Oh, absolutely. For a decade now. I was just in last week, and while it wasn’t a vampire facelift—which I’ve definitely done—it was microneedling with PRP. Even on the same day as the procedure, I had a high-definition Zoom call and received compliments on my skin.

Michelle is truly an artist. If you look at her, I’m not going to mention her age, but she looks like she’s 15 because she takes very good care of herself. She eats well, hikes in the mountains daily, and gets plenty of exercise, which is important to health.

Orthopedic Treatments and Results

So, Alicia, let’s talk orthopedics for a second. I know I’ve injected you a few times. I remember doing your shoulder and your knee. How are those doing now? I haven’t seen you for a while.

My shoulder and knee are doing really well. In fact, my shoulder is in great shape—I was just working out today with a trainer. You injected my left shoulder, where I had two tears. I also consulted an orthopedic surgeon who told me I needed surgery immediately. Thankfully, I listened to you instead. You injected it, and now, even when something was tweaking during my workout, I realized I had completely forgotten about my injury. That’s exactly what we want.

Personally, I’ve worked on both my own shoulders, self-injecting. Both shoulders were locked up with adhesive capsulitis at different times, but now I have full range of motion and no pain. I’m a very happy man.

If you visit my website, aliciados.com, and order the book there, you’ll receive bonuses such as a free class, live time with me, and other wonderful offerings. Thank you for asking.

Welcome to the Second Half Hour

Dr. Marc Darrow is back for the second half hour of the “Living Pain-Free,” ready to share valuable insights on healing musculoskeletal pain. In this segment, Dr. Darrow will explain how you can address musculoskeletal pain.

Dr. Darrow received his training during his residency at UCLA and continued to teach there after completing his residency for nearly 20 years, focusing on regenerative medicine. He considers this work a rewarding life’s journey, training others in natural medical approaches.

Through his teaching and practice, Dr. Darrow emphasizes natural methods in medicine, aiming to help people avoid surgery whenever possible. He is passionate about sharing these techniques to save patients from surgical intervention and improve their quality of life.

Challenges and Limitations of Orthopedic Surgery

Every day, we encounter people who have undergone surgeries that unfortunately did not succeed. While I deeply respect surgeons, I am concerned by the high number of procedures being performed, many of which may not be necessary.

Looking ahead, my projection is that there will come a time when most orthopedic surgeries—such as those for knee meniscal tears, rotator cuff injuries of the shoulder, and labral tears of the hip—will no longer be standard practice. The scientific studies are numerous and show that many of these surgeries ultimately fail to deliver lasting results.

Of course, orthopedic surgery will remain essential for addressing major, severe conditions. However, for minor issues—which make up the majority of cases that patients present with—I believe we will move away from surgical interventions. Instead, non-surgical, regenerative medical approaches will become the preferred choice for these common musculoskeletal problems.

A Conversation with Mac O’Grady: Golf Mastery and Healing

Mac O’Grady: Golf Mastery and Healing Journey

Mac O’Grady, a caller on the show, is a truly remarkable individual and considered one of the greatest masters of the golf swing. His expertise in golf has earned him widespread recognition, and he is also one of Dr. Darrow’s patients. Despite residing in Japan, Mac frequently travels for treatment when he is not competing in tournaments.

Dr. Darrow welcomed Mac to the conversation, expressing his admiration and referring to Mac as his favorite person. Dr. Darrow asked Mac how he was feeling today.

Mac responded by greeting Dr. Darrow and sharing that he was doing well and enjoying life. He also mentioned that one of Dr. Darrow’s patients saw Mac at the golf course the previous day, highlighting Mac’s active lifestyle.

Mac shared that he was at his home course, Rancho Park Golf Course, which he affectionately calls the Gopagus Islands.

Dr. Darrow asked Mac about his physical condition, noting the various health issues Mac has faced over the years and how they have worked together to address them.

Dr. Darrow also inquired if Mac was preparing for an upcoming tournament, suggesting that Mac must be training extensively.

Mac confirmed that he was preparing for a tournament. He shared that he had received an injection from Dr. Darrow a month prior and was now resuming his fitness routine, which includes therapies like using the stationary bicycle and treadmill. Mac expressed his gratitude for Dr. Darrow’s support.

Dr. Darrow replied that it is always a pleasure to have Mac in the office, especially since Mac shares golf tips. Dr. Darrow humorously noted that, unlike Mac, he does not see improvement in his own golf skills.

Mac took the opportunity to testify about the effectiveness of stem cell injections. He explained that after each procedure, it takes him some time to return to exercising, but the stem cell therapy helps repair damaged tissue resulting from disease or injury. Mac, who has undergone several surgeries and pushed his body through decades of exercise, credited stem cell injections with maintaining his physical condition and expressed his appreciation for Dr. Darrow’s work.

Dr. Darrow acknowledged Mac’s efforts in both golf and healing, praising Mac’s exceptional swing, which he considers unmatched. Many, including Dr. Darrow, aspire to replicate Mac’s technique, though he admits he cannot quite achieve it.

Dr. Darrow reflected on Mac’s history of injuries, noting that both are repetitive athletes who continually push themselves. He expressed gratitude for Mac’s visits—not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for his spiritual inspiration and perseverance.

Dr. Darrow concluded by saying he looks forward to seeing Mac again. He noted that they have discussed nearly every golfer in the game and recognized Mac’s influence in making golf famous. He wished Mac well and expressed appreciation for Mac’s contributions to the sport.

PCL and Meniscus Injury Discussion

The following section addresses a question regarding injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and meniscus.

Understanding the PCL

The PCL, or posterior cruciate ligament, is a critical structure located in the knee. While the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is frequently mentioned due to its role in connecting the tibia to the femur at the front of the knee, the focus here is on the PCL and its function within the joint.

Case Overview

A specific injury is described: a right knee torn PCL that occurred in May 2025, accompanied by a broken fibula at the PCL attachment and a torn meniscus. However, there is limited additional information provided regarding the current condition or treatment history.

Assessment and Healing

Given that the injury happened about a year ago, it is likely that the knee has mostly healed, though ongoing pain may still be present. Such cases are commonly treated, and even with what are considered severe diagnoses, recovery is often possible without surgery.

Diagnostic Approach

Ultrasound imaging is used to assess the actual pathology, rather than relying solely on doctor opinions or image reports. This allows identification of the specific pain generator, which can then be targeted with localized injections.

Treatment Considerations

When evaluating the injury, the primary concern is to eliminate pain in order to help the patient return to their sport. Another important factor is joint instability, which is tested by pushing the tibia backward to see if it moves against the femur. If the joint is loose, surgery may be necessary; however, most cases are not loose and may only show tears on MRI scans.

Imaging Limitations

MRIs can be overly sensitive, leading to false positives—showing issues that are not actually present. There have been instances where patients underwent surgery based on MRI results, only for surgeons to find that the supposed tear was not there. This occurs because MRI uses magnetic resonance slices, which can appear fuzzy and may not accurately reflect the true condition.

Summary

Careful evaluation using ultrasound and clinical tests is recommended over relying solely on MRI images. The goal is to accurately identify pain sources and instability to guide effective treatment and avoid unnecessary surgery.

The Orthopedic Diagnosis Dilemma

Patients often receive a diagnosis based on imaging studies, such as X-rays. For example, some individuals come in with X-ray results showing arthritis in the hip.

Because of these findings, their doctor may recommend a hip or knee replacement. However, when the joint is physically examined and moved, it may function perfectly well, indicating that arthritis seen on the X-ray is not actually causing their symptoms.

This highlights the confusion in orthopedic medicine regarding the true source of pain, sometimes referred to as the pain generator. There are cases where patients experience more pain on the side with severe arthritis, and less or no pain on the side with little or no arthritis—even when surgeons suggest surgery based on the presence of arthritis alone.

It is possible to have arthritis without pain, and pain without arthritis. Therefore, caution is required when making treatment decisions based solely on imaging findings.

Unfortunately, the medical system often leans toward surgery. This is not a criticism of orthopedic surgeons, who perform some of the most challenging procedures in medicine. However, poor outcomes can occur, and patients frequently seek alternative care when surgery fails.

Extreme caution should be exercised before proceeding to surgery, ensuring it is truly necessary. In younger populations, there is sometimes a trend toward surgery because it is seen as a badge of honor among peers, but this can be problematic.

Once surgery is performed and tissue is removed, the joint may become destabilized for life. This can lead to repeat surgeries and eventually joint replacements, which are difficult experiences for patients.

Muscle Aches: Evaluation and Diagnosis

The next question addresses muscle aches, which, though somewhat uncommon, do occur and can be concerning for patients.

A patient states, “I have no bone-related issues, only muscle aches. Am I a candidate?” This is a challenging question to answer remotely, such as over the internet or radio, because a thorough evaluation requires physical examination. Until the affected area is examined in person, it is difficult to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Diagnosis should not be based solely on patient reports or opinions from other doctors. Instead, it should rely on findings from hands-on examination. It is important to assess whether the muscle aches are related to a joint injury, tendon injury, or another issue.

For example, the aches could be due to enthesopathy, which refers to the site where a muscle, tendon, or ligament attaches to bone. Many injuries are simple enthesopathies, and treatment options such as stem cells and platelets can be effective in healing these conditions. Physical examination is crucial to identify the specific muscle causing the problem.

Another consideration is whether the patient is experiencing stiffness. Certain diseases, such as DISH (Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis) and ankylosing spondylitis, can cause stiffness and muscle aches throughout the body. In some cases, blood tests may be needed to diagnose these conditions.

Even if a disease is present, treatments like stem cells and PRP may still provide relief. Having a disease does not necessarily mean it is the source of pain. Careful assessment is required to identify the true pain generator.

The approach is similar to detective work—going beyond the diagnosis and imaging and using hands-on evaluation to determine where the pain is coming from. This is essential because patients often present with an incorrect diagnosis.

Extreme caution should be exercised before considering surgery. Surgeries carry significant risks, including side effects from anesthesia. While these risks may not occur frequently, their impact can be severe for the affected individual. Therefore, it is vital to be very careful and only pursue surgery if absolutely necessary.

Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthritis: Treatment Options and Approach

The metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, one of the toe joints, is a common site for arthritis and related discomfort. Patients often seek information regarding available treatments for arthritis in this joint.

Diagnosis and Treatment of MTP Joint Arthritis

Yes, arthritis in the MTP joint can be treated. The most effective treatment often involves a combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cells derived from the patient. Given the small size of this joint, these regenerative therapies can be particularly beneficial for relieving pain and improving function.

Hypertrophy of the MTP joint—commonly known as a bunion—can be extremely painful. There are several ways to address this condition. If the joint is not severely arthritic, conservative treatment with custom orthotics is recommended. These orthotics can be cast specifically for the patient and fit comfortably inside shoes. Many patients, including those who are physically active, find significant relief from orthotics, sometimes eliminating the need for injections.

Procedures and Pain Management

In cases where injection is necessary, a very fine 30-gauge needle is used, minimizing pain. Ethyl chloride spray or numbing cream can be applied for patients who are sensitive to needles. The use of smaller needles makes the injection process less painful, and both physicians and patients have noted the benefits of this approach.

While this technique requires more effort from the practitioner, it greatly improves patient comfort. Both PRP and stem cell injections are options for managing arthritis in the toe joint, but conservative measures are preferred whenever possible.

Comprehensive Treatment Scope

The treatment approach is not limited to the MTP joint; all joints throughout the body can be treated. This includes the neck, back, ribs, and other areas. Regenerative medicine therapies can be applied wherever appropriate, based on the patient’s needs and condition. The versatility of these treatments allows for a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal health.

Perspective on IV Stem Cell Therapy

Earlier in the program, we heard from Carla and Ben, who expressed interest in stem cell treatments. There has been considerable excitement surrounding intravenous (IV) infusions of stem cells, with many patients curious about their benefits.

Professional Observations and Outcomes

Despite this hype, based on my experience, the effectiveness of IV stem cell infusion remains uncertain. I have not encountered any patients who reported sustained, long-term improvement from these treatments. Generally, people experience a temporary boost in well-being for a few days, but no lasting results have been observed.

International Stem Cell Infusion Experiences

Some patients consider traveling abroad—to places such as Thailand, Mexico, or Costa Rica—for IV stem cell infusions. However, I have never referred any of my patients for these procedures. Reflecting on my own experiences many years ago, before stem cells became widely discussed, I traveled to the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic to undergo IV stem cell therapy myself. Ultimately, I did not see any benefit from these treatments, which is why they did not remain memorable for me.

Approach to Regenerative Medicine

My approach has always been innovative and evidence-driven, focusing on medical practices that genuinely deliver results. From hormone therapy to regenerative medicine, I prioritize natural therapies and those that have proven effective in both my personal experience and with patients. I do not follow trends or standard protocols simply because they are recommended; instead, I rely on what works.

Patient-Centered Innovation

When I discover a therapy that benefits me, I share this with my patients, offering them the opportunity to try it. Early in my career at UCLA, I would ask patients if they were open to experimental regenerative therapies, especially when these treatments had helped me personally. This collaborative and cautious approach allowed us to potentially avoid unnecessary surgeries and fostered my ongoing commitment to regenerative medicine.