Living Pain-Free with Dr. Marc Darrow and Dr. Thomas Grove
Are you struggling with pain, whether it is in your joints or muscles? If so, this program is for you. Welcome to Living Pain-free with Dr. Marc Darrow, MD, and Dr. Thomas Grove, DO, from the Stem Cell Institute in West Los Angeles. This show is dedicated to providing effective solutions for the pain you have been experiencing.
Dr. Marc Darrow is a board-certified medical doctor, having completed his studies at UCLA. Dr. Darrow specializes in using stem cells and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to support healing within the body. He is actively involved in teaching about the applications of stem cells, PRP, and prolotherapy.
Dr. Thomas Grove is a regenerative medicine specialist, known for his expertise in ultrasound-guided injections. He brings extensive experience as both an athlete and a strength and conditioning coach, which enhances his ability to help patients with musculoskeletal injuries.
Stem Cell and Platelet Therapy Overview
Hello, ladies and gentlemen. This is Dr. Marc Darrow, and it is my pleasure to share information about stem cell and platelet therapy as options for treating orthopedic injuries, arthritis, neck pain, back pain, and pain affecting the joints. Whether your discomfort is in the vertebrae of the neck and back, elbows, wrists, hips, or shoulders, these therapies may offer relief. In particular, we frequently treat shoulder and knee issues.
Injury, Imaging, and Regenerative Medicine
Sometimes, a person may experience what seems like a minor joint sprain. However, when a doctor examines the area using advanced imaging techniques such as MRI, X-ray, or CT scan, they might uncover alarming abnormalities that are not even related to the patient’s actual pain. These findings can be confusing and potentially misleading when it comes to determining the cause of discomfort.
For anyone interested in learning more, there is a free book available titled “Stem Cell Therapy and Platelet Therapy: Regenerate, Don’t Operate.” The core message of this book is to encourage regeneration of tissue using stem cells or platelets, rather than opting for surgery to remove tissue.
This recommendation is not given lightly. There are serious risks associated with surgery, including complications from anesthesia, which can have severe consequences. For example, I have witnessed people experience life-threatening issues on the operating table due to anesthesia. I recently underwent a non-orthopedic surgery myself and found the after-effects of anesthesia to be overwhelming, lasting for about a month. I was unsure if I would fully recover, but thankfully, I am back to my usual activities like sprinting in the park and playing golf.
On another occasion, during medical school, I had surgery on my shoulder. The outcome was far from ideal and left me struggling for years. It took about four years to recover from the failed surgery. My breakthrough came when I attended a seminar about prolotherapy—an early form of regenerative medicine involving concentrated dextrose injections. After four years of persistent pain, I administered the treatment myself and woke up the next morning completely pain-free, with full range of motion in my shoulder.
This pivotal experience changed my approach to medicine. I realized I would no longer focus on steroid injections, physical therapy alone, or simply referring patients to surgeons. Instead, I dedicated myself to practicing regenerative medicine. I was among the first to promote these treatments widely, lecturing across the country and authoring a book on stem cell and platelet therapies. Today, these methods are gaining recognition among many physicians, though some orthopedic surgeons remain hesitant because of their surgical training.
Chiropractic
Dr. Randy Weinzsoff is a chiropractor based in Santa Monica, recognized for his ability to address ridiculopathies—conditions involving nerve compression in the spine. He has been a valuable associate, and numerous patients with difficult nerve-related issues are often referred to him for treatment. Many patients have previously seen other chiropractors without success, but Dr. Winesoff is known for delivering results where others have not.
Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Weinzsoff employs different diagnostic techniques. While many patients arrive with advanced diagnostic imaging, such as MRIs or CAT scans, Dr. Weinzsoff prefers to use loadbearing digital X-rays. These X-rays are taken while patients are standing, allowing him to observe the bone structure under the influence of gravity—a perspective unavailable through traditional imaging taken while lying down.
This method enables Dr. Weinzsoff to identify structural misalignments in the spine. He describes his approach as similar to an architect evaluating the framework of a building. By realigning the skeletal frame of his patients, he often relieves pressure on spinal discs and nerve roots, stopping disc bulging and alleviating nerve compression.
Patient Outcomes
There are numerous accounts of patients experiencing significant improvement after treatment by Dr. Weinzsoff. One notable story involves a patient suffering from a “dead leg,” who was initially hesitant to seek chiropractic care. After visiting Dr. Weinzsoff, the patient’s symptoms resolved on the very first day.
Specialization and Contact Information
Dr. Weinzsoff specializes in treating ridiculopathies and handles complex cases involving pain radiating down the arms or legs—issues that are often beyond the scope of standard pain management approaches.
Nerve injury following back pain
A middle-aged woman presented with back pain, having previously undergone back surgery where a disc was replaced. Upon awakening from surgery, she experienced numbness and tingling—referred to as paresthesia—in her right foot, which was very painful.
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis
During the examination, touching the side of her right leg caused significant discomfort and tingling. Further assessment pinpointed the pain along the path of the peroneal nerve, which runs on the outside of the calf and into the foot. The patient’s reaction indicated considerable sensitivity, confirming the location of the nerve issue.
Based on these findings, Dr. Grove felt the diagnosis was peroneal nerve impingement resulting from the surgery, rather than an issue originating from her back. Despite being advised to undergo another back surgery, the clinicians determined that the source of her leg pain was not related to her spine.
Treatment and Outcome
We proposed a hydro dissection procedure, performed under ultrasound guidance, allowing precise visualization of the nerves and needle placement. The procedure avoids deep, uncertain areas and minimizes risks. Following hydro dissection, most of the paresthesia in her leg resolved by her next visit, although some foot issues persisted.
Upon follow-up, it was confirmed that the leg pain was gone, but the patient did not fully realize how fortunate she was that the problem was not stemming from her back. Pressing on her leg reproduced pain and tingling, reinforcing the diagnosis that the issue was nerve-related, not spinal. This distinction is crucial, as MRI findings can sometimes mislead clinicians regarding the source of pain.
Her MRI appeared severe and seemed to justify surgery, yet the procedure worsened her condition and led to peroneal nerve compression—a complication commonly observed after surgery. Such nerve injuries often occur not from direct surgical manipulation, but from patient positioning and movement under anesthesia. This can result in nerve compression and injury.
The clinicians emphasized the importance of differentiating between pathology seen on imaging and the actual cause of symptoms. Careful clinical reasoning and examination are necessary to avoid unnecessary and ineffective surgeries. In the patient’s case, further hydro dissection was performed around the ankle, targeting the source of her foot paresthesia. The team awaited the outcome, hoping the issue was entirely unrelated to her back and instead attributable to nerve injury from surgery.
This case underscores the need for vigilance in distinguishing between imaging findings and real clinical pathology. Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment, such as hydro dissection, can resolve issues that might otherwise be mistakenly attributed to spinal problems, preventing unnecessary interventions and improving patient outcomes.
Living Pain-Free: Regenerative Medicine with Dr. Marc Darrow and Dr. Thomas Grove
You’re listening to Living Pain-Free with Dr. Marc Darrow and Dr. Thomas Grove. Their practice is located at the Stem Cell Institute in West Los Angeles. Rather than resorting to procedures that involve cutting out tissue—which carry significant risks—the doctors recommend healing and rejuvenating affected areas using advanced regenerative treatments. These include stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and prolotherapy. The same treatments that have helped professional athletes recover from injuries are now accessible to everyone.
Hello folks. This is the second half hour of Living Pain-Free. I’m Dr. Marc Darrow, and I’ve been practicing regenerative medicine for almost thirty years. My approach focuses on injections using stem cells and PRP. Platelet-rich plasma is especially effective for healing sports injuries and virtually any area of the body, including those affected by arthritis. It is important to note that our practice does not treat diseases; that’s outside our scope. We also do not offer intravenous (IV) treatments, and I’m not convinced that those methods are truly effective.
Regenerative Treatments: What Works and What Doesn’t
We often hear stories about people traveling to stem cell clinics around the globe, spending large sums of money for IV stem cell therapies. These individuals may feel improved for a few days and think the results are miraculous, but frequently their pain returns. I remain skeptical about these types of treatments. While I am not completely opposed to them, I firmly believe that doctors should not charge excessive fees for therapies that are unlikely to provide lasting benefits. In fact, I advise caution when considering any treatment that comes with a hefty price tag.
Ultimately, our goal is to provide effective, evidence-based regenerative therapies that help patients manage pain and recover from injuries without unnecessary risks or costs.
Managing Shingles and Post-Herpetic Neuralgia
Sometimes we will see someone seeking help with shingles. While shingles is not something we treat extensively, I am familiar with effective approaches for managing this condition. Shingles presents as small blisters caused by a herpes-type virus. Although stem cell therapy is not typically used for this condition—and I have not tried it personally—we employ a blend of treatments to address the pain. Specifically, we make small injections, or “blebs,” around the affected area, which usually helps alleviate pain and speeds the healing of blisters. While I cannot promise results, we have often observed rapid relief from both pain and blisters.
For those suffering from shingles or post-herpetic neuralgia, we offer a non-pharmacological approach. Unlike some practices that rely on medications like gabapentin to mask the pain, we focus on targeted injections around the affected area, which can eliminate the pain.
A December 2025 study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Herpes zoster-associated neuralgia (HZN) treatment, and compares it to PRF alone.
Seven studies with 568 subjects showed that Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) combined with PRP relieved HZN-related pain better than Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) alone. Combined therapy also improved sleep, reduced the need for rescue analgesics, and had a similar rate of adverse events as traditional PRF.
Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) combined with PRP is more effective than traditional radiofrequency pulse therapy for HZN, improving sleep quality and reducing the need for postoperative rescue analgesics. These results indicate that the combination may be a promising treatment option for HZN.
A Conversation with Mac O’Grady: Unique Golf Swing and Regenerative Treatments
We were joined by one of the most renowned golfers in the world, Mac O’Grady. received stem cell injections at our office.
I want to take a moment to highlight Mac’s extraordinary character. He is not only one of the greatest golfers of all time, but also one of the most exceptional individuals I have met. Mac is celebrated for having the best golf swing in history. While there are many outstanding professional golfers, none possess a swing quite like Mac’s.
Many aspire to emulate Mac’s swing, but it is notoriously challenging to replicate. Mac was asked what makes your swing so unique? How has it contributed to your success in some of the world’s top golf tournaments? What sets your swing apart from others?
Mac explains, “Well, I was actually self-taught, and as a kid, I played more than ten different sports. The variety of sports I played helped me develop the specific positions and alignments needed for golf. That foundation was very beneficial.”
The Importance of Performance Beyond Technique
Let me emphasize an important point: possessing the most beautiful golf swing in the world means little if you cannot deliver when it matters most. This concept extends beyond golf. For example, a movie star may have the most stunning appearance, but when the cameras start rolling, true talent is revealed in their ability to perform under pressure.
Golf is a complex sport with many variables, but when a player’s swing is not only aesthetically pleasing but also consistent, repeatable, and fluid, it provides a significant advantage. This level of mastery allows golfers to execute reliably, especially in high-pressure situations.
Learning from the Greats
Many players strive to imitate legends like Sam Snead, whose swing is often held as the ideal. Even as we try to emulate these icons, the key takeaway is that performance—whether in golf or acting—ultimately depends on delivering results when it counts.
you can talk about that. But from a scientific point of view looking at them, the tissue is so much healthier.
Stem Cell Injection Recovery: Lessons Learned
Mac O’Grady shared valuable insights about his recovery process after receiving stem cell injections. He emphasized the importance of common sense and patience, stating that while stem cell injections are beneficial, following a proper recovery timeline is crucial for optimal results.
Professional athletes who receive treatments for injuries, such as meniscus tears, can often return to their sport within six weeks because they are in peak physical condition. However, he acknowledged that the average person may not recover as quickly, highlighting the need for a more cautious approach.
One key lesson Mac noted was the importance of not rushing into exercise too soon after the injections. He recalled the advice he received: to be careful and avoid resuming intense activity prematurely. Personally, Mac waited anywhere from 60 to 90 days before engaging in exercise after his injections, choosing to give his body ample time to heal before returning full force.
The conversation also touched on how many people tend to “cheat” on the recommended recovery timeline, often resuming activity earlier than advised. Although patients are typically told to wait at least two weeks, Mac’s proactive approach of waiting up to 90 days stands out as a model of patience and discipline. Most people, he observed, may not even wait 60 to 90 minutes, let alone days.
An illustrative anecdote was shared about another golfer, an older gentleman who received stem cell injections in both knees. Despite being advised to rest, he played golf three times during the first week after his procedure, which contributed to the treatment’s lack of effectiveness. This story underscores the importance of listening to medical advice and allowing time for tissue growth and healing.
Mac concluded by reflecting on his own experience: after undergoing 15 surgeries throughout his athletic career, he always followed his doctor’s instructions faithfully. He credits this disciplined approach to his remarkable recovery and ongoing success.
Suzanne Somers: A Pioneer in Alternative Medicine
Suzanne Somers was not only known for her beauty and energetic personality, but she also stood out as a leading figure in the realm of alternative medicine. She dedicated herself to promoting natural approaches to health and wellness, consistently putting herself on the line for these causes.
Throughout her life, Suzanne authored approximately 20 books focused on empowering individuals to manage and overcome various diseases naturally. Despite facing significant personal health challenges and battling different illnesses, she always demonstrated remarkable resilience and perseverance.
Sadly, Suzanne passed away some time ago, and her absence is felt deeply by those who admired her work and spirit. Her legacy continues through her family, whom the author has had the privilege of treating over the years.
The connection with Suzanne began through her son Bruce, who was a neighbor and frequently sought medical attention after bike accidents. Suzanne witnessed these treatments firsthand, which sparked her interest in the field. She even wrote several chapters in her books about the author’s work, helping to spread awareness about alternative medicine practices.
Stroke Survivors: Recovery and Regeneration
Understanding Stroke Causes and Effects
Many individuals experience strokes due to a variety of factors, the most common being atrial fibrillation and high blood pressure. However, strokes can stem from numerous other causes as well. The effects of a stroke vary considerably, and it is important to clarify the specific challenges faced by each survivor. For example, stroke-related difficulties may include weakness, slurred speech, or joint pain resulting from overuse.
Personal Experience in Stroke Rehabilitation
During my residency at Amigos Hospital in Downey, affiliated with UCLA, I worked with many athletes who had suffered strokes or brain trauma. Despite their injuries, these individuals often remained active, sometimes as wheelchair athletes. This sometimes led to overuse injuries, particularly in their shoulders, which could be addressed through targeted joint and muscle treatments.
Limitations of Stem Cell Treatments for Stroke Symptoms
While joint and muscle issues caused by stroke-related overuse can be treated, research shows that stem cell therapies do not effectively address the main symptoms of stroke itself, such as weakness, aphasia (language difficulties), mental issues, or pain directly resulting from the stroke. Therefore, it is not advisable for stroke survivors to invest in stem cell treatments for these specific symptoms.
Addressing Ancillary Problems in Stroke Recovery
It is possible to provide support for the ancillary fallout from a stroke, such as treating overused joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. I have treated numerous stroke patients for these secondary issues and have conducted research in this area. However, the primary deficits caused by a stroke remain challenging to address with regenerative therapies.
