Welcome To Derrington Orthopedics — Interventional Sports and Spine
Leading Specialists in Regenerative Medicine and the Diagnosis and Treatment of Musculoskeletal Conditions, as Well as Complex, Image-Guided Injections of your Body's Own Healing Agents to Treat Orthopedic Issues.
At Derrington Orthopedics – Interventional Sports and Spine, we provide innovative orthopedic care to treat acute and chronic injuries affecting all areas of the body. Dr. Stephen Derrington, an expertly trained physician, is able to provide accurate diagnoses through the use of a comprehensive history, physical examination, and review of imaging. Treatments utilize state-of-the-art technology to safely and accurately treat these conditions, harnessing the body's innate ability to heal itself. Our goal is to help all of our patients return to the activities they love to do.
Or call (760) 721-4000 | Carlsbad & Laguna Hills. In-office or telehealth.
Serving Carlsbad · Laguna Hills · North County San Diego · South Orange County
115,700+
Successful Procedures and Counting Across the Regenexx Network
#1 in California
More Regenexx procedures performed than any other clinic in the state
3rd in the U.S.
Nationally ranked for Regenexx procedures performed in 2023
Leading Specialists in Regenerative Medicine, Interventional Spine & Sports Medicine
Dr. Stephen Derrington, DO — Founder & Medical Director
In the specialized field of regenerative medicine, Dr. Stephen Derrington stands out as a leading figure. As a prominent Regenexx physician, he has performed more Regenexx procedures than any other clinic in California, and ranked third in the entire United States in 2023.
Dr. Derrington's career spans over 20 years in orthopedic medicine. He attended Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, where he studied osteopathic medicine principles focused on the body's self-healing capabilities, followed by an internship at Wellington Regional Medical Center in Florida and a residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
Recognizing the limitations of traditional invasive treatments, he pursued an Interventional Spine, Sports Medicine and Regenerative Medicine fellowship with Dr. Marko Bodor in Napa, California, mastering ultrasound and fluoroscopic imaging to deliver precise, image-guided treatments using cells and platelets.
In 2016 Dr. Derrington joined the Regenexx network at Health Link Medical Center. In early 2020 he assumed ownership of the San Diego and Orange County clinics, rebranding as Derrington Orthopedics – Interventional Sports and Spine.
Credentials:
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences
- Residency: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia
- Fellowship: Interventional Spine, Sports Medicine & Regenerative Medicine (Dr. Marko Bodor, Napa, CA)
- 20+ years of experience in orthopedic medicine
- Regenexx-certified provider — ultrasound and fluoroscopic guided procedures
- More Regenexx procedures than any other clinic in California; 3rd in the United States in 2023
- On-site processing lab with proprietary techniques for higher cell concentrations
Find Out If You're a Candidate — Before You Commit to Anything
We offer a free review of your radiology to determine candidacy before you ever come into the office. If an evaluation makes sense, we schedule it in Carlsbad, Laguna Hills, or by telehealth.
- Free radiology review to determine whether you are a candidate
- In-office or telehealth consultations available
- In network with many PPO plans; $350 for HMO or uninsured patients
- An honest answer on whether our approach fits your condition
What happens on your first call:
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We ask about your condition, your symptoms, how long you've had them and what you have already tried
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02
We review the imaging you already have — MRI, X-ray or CT — at no cost
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We explain which non-surgical options may apply to your case in plain language
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If appropriate, we schedule an in-office or telehealth consultation with Dr. Derrington or Dr. Worley
Please Note: We Are Not Conducting Clinical Trials.
We offer real-world treatments using advanced orthopedic care—but we are not enrolling in or conducting clinical research or trials. If you're looking for long-lasting, non-surgical solutions, you're in the right place.
Three Steps From First Call to a Treatment Plan You Can Act On
Step 1 — Check Your Eligibility
Send us your imaging and tell us what is going on. We review your radiology at no cost and tell you honestly whether an image-guided, non-surgical approach is worth exploring for your condition.
Step 2 — Schedule Your Consultation
A full evaluation with advanced ultrasound and MRI review. Regenexx consultations average a full hour: complete history, hands-on examination, imaging review and a real diagnosis explained in plain language.
Consultation fee:
We are in network with many PPO insurance providers and can bill your insurance. If you have an HMO plan or no insurance, the consultation is $350 and includes a thorough examination, a review of your history and imaging, and diagnostic ultrasound where indicated.
Step 3 — Start Your Healing Plan
If you are a candidate, your physician builds a personalized plan around your diagnosis: Regenexx bone marrow concentrate or platelet procedures, supported by therapies such as prolotherapy and MLS laser, with follow-up at six to eight weeks.
Non-Surgical Treatments That Use Your Body's Own Healing Ability
Your exact plan is determined after a thorough evaluation. These are the tools your physician may draw from:
Regenexx Bone Marrow Concentrate (Regenexx-SD)
Cells harvested from your hip are concentrated in our on-site lab using proprietary techniques that achieve higher cell concentrations than standard methods, then injected precisely into the injured area using advanced imaging to promote natural healing.
Regenexx ProceduresPlatelet Rich Plasma (PRP) & Platelet Lysate
Concentrated platelets carry the healing growth factors from your own blood that initiate and accelerate tissue repair. Using ultrasound and/or fluoroscopic image guidance, needles are directed safely and accurately to the area being treated. Studies suggest an improvement of 80–85%.
About PRPProlotherapy
Proliferation injection therapy stimulates natural healing by creating a mild localized inflammatory response, signalling the immune system to send healing cells, platelets and specialized proteins to the damaged tissue. Treatments are typically spaced four weeks apart, three to six in total.
About ProlotherapyMLS Laser Therapy
Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is FDA-cleared, painless and noninvasive. Sessions run 10–15 minutes and most patients experience results within one to three treatments; acute conditions typically require six sessions, chronic conditions ten to fifteen.
About MLS Laser TherapyPublished outcomes and a note on candidacy:
80% of PRP patients with knee arthritis report significant pain relief; 78–93% of bone marrow concentrate patients avoided knee surgery for four or more years; 92% of spine patients avoided lumbar fusion within four years. Not all patients are candidates — effectiveness varies with your condition, its severity and your overall health, which is exactly why we evaluate carefully before recommending anything.
Conditions We Treat — Spine, Shoulder, Knee, Hip, Elbow, Foot, Hand and More
We treat acute and chronic injuries affecting all areas of the body with non-surgical and minimally invasive options that work with your body's natural healing ability.
View All ConditionsNot sure if your condition qualifies?
Most patients aren't. Send us your imaging for a free radiology review and we will tell you honestly whether our approach is appropriate — and if it isn't, we will point you toward what is.
Using Your Own Cells to Treat Arthritis, Joint Injuries & Spine Pain
Learn about the top non-surgical procedure for treating joint injuries, arthritis, spine pain and other orthopedic conditions.
44% of the world's orthopedic literature
Regenexx has published 44% of the world’s orthopedic literature on these procedures, including two randomized controlled trials, with several others ongoing.
15+ years of published study
Regenexx procedures have been studied extensively for more than 15 years, and our patients are part of the world’s largest mesenchymal database.
What Patients Say After Their Evaluation and Treatment
“2 Years and Counting — My Left Knee Is 100% Functional”
In 2019, I was told by an orthopedic surgeon that I needed a meniscectomy. I got a second opinion with Dr. Derrington and he fixed my left knee large meniscus tear with his state of the art PRP procedure. 2 years and counting, my left knee is 100% functional with no symptoms. Derrington Orthopedics is where I go to for all my orthopedic needs.
“Two Years of Tendinitis in Both Arms — PRP Gave Me the Breakthrough”
After over two years of struggling with severe tendinitis in both arms, multiple treatments including cortisone shots, and PT, Dr. Steve's PRP gave me the breakthrough! I actually started healing and after about six months I was back to doing all of my exercises at the gym without pain. Dr. Steve took the time to explain what was going on, set realistic expectations for healing and followed up to see how I was doing.
“90% Better Within a Week — A Physician Who Actually Thinks”
As a disclaimer, I'm a paramedic and have worked in health care for nearly 30 years, so I've worked with hundreds of physicians. First, he is personable and listens to you. Second, he actually does a physical assessment. His PRP of my right hamstring made it 90% better within a week. After lower back surgery my legs were still having issues, so Dr. Derrington did PRP injections along the areas commonly affected by surgery — the heaviness in my calves and tightness in my right quadriceps all but disappeared.
“For Regenerative Medicine in the US I Wouldn't Go Anywhere Else”
I have gone to Dr. Derrington twice for injuries over the last couple years and highly recommend him. He helped my lower back injury with the Regenexx PL disc procedure and also my shoulder tear with PRP injections. I found a significant benefit both times I went to him with orthopedic injuries and am very grateful not to have to have surgery.
“Pain-Free for 30 Days After PRP & Prolotherapy”
I had treatments done a month ago with Dr. Derrington for my debilitating back and hip pain. I have bulging disks, arthritis and degenerative disk disease in my lower back, plus damaged tendons and ligaments in my left hip. Taking pain killers or having actual surgery was not an option for me. So I had PRP and prolotherapy done. They were great at keeping me comfortable during the whole procedure. I'm happy to report that I've been pain-free for 30 days — free of the debilitating daily pain that made it to where I couldn't even walk.
“Skiing Every Day — Celebrating My 70th Year on Snow”
I had stem cell and PRP treatment on my knee in June 2019 and a booster PRP in September 2019. I have been skiing every day for the last 30 days and my knee keeps getting stronger with each turn. Last year it would swell up and it was painful; I did not think I would be skiing this season. I am celebrating my 70th year of skiing. Thanks Dr. Derrington.
“Full Recovery From a Torn LCL in Less Than Two Months”
Dr. Derrington saw me for my torn LCL. I received a couple injections of PRP from my orthopedic surgeon before seeing Dr. Derrington and both were unsuccessful. Through his expertise in PRP injections and proper physical rehabilitation I was able to make a full recovery in less than two months. I am now back doing jiujitsu and weight lifting like normal. I recommend him as a first point of contact because the sooner you get in to see him the better.
“The Regenexx Epidural Shots Shrunk My Disc Herniation”
Semi large disc herniation L5-S1. I am a 38 year old active guy who enjoys golf, surfing and other outdoor activities. It was not until I spoke to Dr. Derrington that I was offered alternative methods for dealing with my injury. We spoke about anti-inflammatory foods and supplements to lower inflammation. A combination of proper dedicated training, lowered inflammation and the Regenexx epidural shots, which shrunk the herniation, sealed the deal for me.
Individual results vary. Testimonials reflect patient experiences and are not a guarantee of specific outcomes. Consult with a physician to determine if treatment is appropriate for your condition.
Financial Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Is my consultation covered by insurance?
We are in network with many PPO insurance providers and can bill your insurance. If you have an HMO plan or no insurance, the consultation is $350 and includes a thorough examination, a review of your history and imaging, and diagnostic ultrasound where indicated.
We work with numerous insurers including AARP, Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare, among others. Tricare and Health Net may also provide coverage.
Can I have a consultation without coming into the office in person?
Yes. Telehealth appointments are available and can be billed through insurance. If you have an HMO insurance or don't have insurance, the cost of the telehealth visit is $350.
We also offer free radiology reviews to determine candidacy before an in-person consultation.
My orthopedic doctor told me I am “bone on bone” and that only a joint replacement can help. Can a Regenexx bone marrow concentrate procedure help?
Many orthopedic doctors are not aware of the advances in image-guided injections that use the body's own healing agents. Our published data shows positive improvements in pain and function in most patients with arthritis, even “bone on bone”.
If I have severe arthritis, will this procedure regrow my cartilage?
With severe arthritis, cartilage regrowth typically does not occur, although mild to moderate cases have shown MRI evidence of growth. Improvements more often result from long-term blocking of the cells that destroy the joint, rescue of the cells that repair the joint, and replacing lost native cells that maintain the joint.
What data do you have to show these procedures can help heal orthopedic injuries?
Regenexx procedures have been studied extensively for more than 15 years, and our patients are part of the world's largest mesenchymal database. Regenexx has published 44% of the world's orthopedic literature on these procedures, including two randomized controlled trials, with several others ongoing.
Are Regenexx procedures approved by the FDA?
Medical procedures are not “approved” by the FDA as they are not a drug. These procedures fall under specific regulatory exemptions covering minimally manipulated bone marrow, autologous blood products, and same-surgical-session implantation.
Ready to Find Out If a Non-Surgical Approach Could Work for You?
Call us today to schedule an in-office or telehealth appointment, or fill out the form and our team will reach out. We will ask about your condition, explain which options may apply, and tell you honestly whether an evaluation with Dr. Derrington or Dr. Worley makes sense.
If we're not the right fit for your condition, we'll tell you — and try to point you in the right direction.
Form located on derringtonortho.com home page
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Please Note: We Are Not Conducting Clinical Trials.
We offer real-world treatments using advanced orthopedic care—but we are not enrolling in or conducting clinical research or trials. If you're looking for long-lasting, non-surgical solutions, you're in the right place.
By providing your phone number to Derrington Orthopedics you acknowledge and agree that we may send text messages to your wireless phone number for various purposes. Message rates may apply and you can opt out at any time by replying STOP. Your information is kept confidential and will not be shared with any third parties for marketing purposes. Individual results vary and not all patients are candidates; a thorough evaluation is required to determine whether non-surgical treatment is appropriate for your condition.
Our Offices in Carlsbad & Laguna Hills
Carlsbad Office
5806 Van Allen Way, Suite 101
Carlsbad, CA 92008
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Laguna Hills Office
25411 Cabot Rd, Suite 116
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
- Tuesday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
New patients can upload an MRI before their visit for a free radiology review.