Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Steven Sampson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
During my residency in New York City, I was disappointed in the overall focus to treat orthopedic injuries by managing symptoms with cortisone or medications, that gave a false sense of improvement, masked injury and making injuries worse. Following the residency in New York City, I moved to Santa Monica California for an opportunity to work with professional athletes. Early on I learned of a unique approach to healing that maximizes the body’s ability to heal itself. Doctors in Spain were treating professional soccer players with their own blood, called Platelet Rich Plasma “PRP.”
Immediately a light went on for me after I reviewed the basic science that seemed promising. We treated our 1st patient a US world cup soccer athlete who recovered in half the expected time from an MCL tear (knee ligament tear). The procedure was featured on CBS news nationally and the treatment gained attention. I began to vigorously study and publish literature on PRP becoming an international expert speaking at the United Nations Geneva and around the globe.
As one of the few physicians studying and injecting PRP into painful joints and tendons, I created an annual meeting so doctors can collaborate together & share scientific advances, clinical experience and patient data. This conference (TOBI) The Orthobiologic Institute started with approximately 15 doctors at the Hotel Palomar and now is in its 9th year at the Wynn Las Vegas with nearly 600 doctors and industry leaders from over 40 countries and hundreds live streaming!
After realizing the benefits of cell-based orthopedic treatments and an overall preference in the community for minimally invasive care; I created the Orthohealing Center in 2008. I subleased a small office space from a nephrologist on a shoestring budget. My wife was pregnant and was my office asset and we had less than $20,000 in the bank to start a medical practice. Before the first day of my new clinic, I pulled my back out carrying a heavy printer across 20th street to save on parking!
The office grew rapidly as patients appreciated the comprehensive approach integrating cutting-edge medicine in the active community of Los Angeles. Soon I added a partner Danielle Aufiero MD who shared my enthusiasm and vision with regenerative medicine. Over time we have added several physicians while still emphasizing high-quality hands-on examinations and customized treatments. Most of our growth was attributed to treating one patient at a time with a positive experience, referring others in their community.
We continue to research and lecture on science that influences how physicians treat patients to thousands and thousands of patients. We are sharing our protocols with high-quality practitioners in the US and China to expand the reach of cell-based therapies for orthopedic injuries.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For me, it was a path of perseverance and grit that got me through the challenges along the way. In college, I decided late in my 3rd year to go to medical school. As a sociology major, I needed tutors in biochemistry and Trigonometry etc. I was told by some friends that I could not make it. That it was too competitive.
After I was accepted into medical school my grandfather as a positive role model in my life passed away. Shortly afterward during my 3rd year of Medical school, my father died. I dug deep, kept my head down & held onto my studies to stay grounded and with a purpose. That made me a stronger person and more empathetic.
Staring a solo practice with my pregnant wife was a risk. I did not see it that way as I was betting on myself. But in hindsight, it was a risk nonetheless. Traditionally physician-owned practices are rare nowadays with hospitals and large orthopedic groups dominating the landscape.
The medical community, in general, is skeptical of change & resistant to new ways of thinking. Thus I am always proving the worth and merit of cell-based medicine. It’s been fun to see the gradual acceptance from major institutions, universities and military organizations along the historical ride.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Orthohealing Center – what should we know?
We specialize in orthopedic and sports injuries. We prefer a more natural based approach avoiding cortisone and invasive surgery when possible. We provide a comprehensive and hands-on evaluation for people in pain. Patients range from elite athletes to patients with pain from everyday activities. By far knee arthritis is the most common region I see. As a result of the LA community being so active, we encounter various setbacks and need help to stay strong and return to activity.
We are experts in our field and wholeheartedly feel we are among the best in the world at it. We provide customized and innovative care to patients based on their needs.
I’m most proud to see how far we have come. We are thriving in a competitive environment. We help people and are able to be creative and make a positive difference in the world. We are not just treating one person at a time, because we have educated and influenced thousands of doctors and their patients from all over the world.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Drive, Grit. Passion & Perseverance.
Contact Info:
- Address: 10780 Santa Monica Blvd #210 Los Angeles CA 90025
- Website: www.orthohealing.com
- Phone: 310-453-5404
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: orthohealingla
- Facebook: @orthohealingcenter
- Twitter: @orthohealingCtr
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
