A Shoulder Consultation That Changed Everything
Manny Slack originally visited Albano Clinic for a shoulder injury consultation. During his evaluation, Dr. Albano noticed something important in his medical history: Manny had taken a course of prednisone in his early twenties.
Long-term corticosteroid use is a known risk factor for avascular necrosis, a condition in which reduced blood supply causes bone tissue to deteriorate. Because of that history, Dr. Albano recommended further evaluation.
An Unexpected Diagnosis
An MRI revealed significant avascular necrosis in both hips, including cartilage damage and structural deterioration.
For Manny, the diagnosis carried enormous consequences. As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and instructor, healthy hips were essential not only for his sport but also for his career.
What Is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular necrosis (AVN) occurs when blood flow to bone tissue becomes disrupted. Without adequate circulation, bone can weaken and deteriorate over time, potentially leading to arthritis and joint collapse if left untreated.
A Comprehensive, Non-Surgical Plan
Rather than immediately pursuing surgery, Dr. Albano developed a personalized treatment plan designed to improve both Manny's hips and his overall healing environment.
- Orthobiologic injections for both hips
- Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT)
- Targeted nutritional support
- Individualized physical therapy and rehabilitation
The goal was not simply to treat the damaged joints, but to optimize the entire body to support healing and long-term function.
Back to Doing What He Loves
"What's interesting is, being that I've always had problems with my hips, it's a new feeling. Something that I've never had the experience of knowing... it's good. It's nice to know what it feels like to have movable hips."
— Manny Slack
Manny credits the clinic's whole-body approach as a major part of his recovery.
"Being able to get the hormones, supplements, physical therapy—all of those things that encompass the entire treatment—that has been the beauty of me coming here."
— Manny Slack
Today, Manny is back on the mat, continuing to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and enjoying the movement that once seemed at risk.
Clinical Insight
Manny's experience highlights the importance of treating the whole patient. For appropriate candidates, combining regenerative medicine with hormone optimization, rehabilitation, and lifestyle support may provide an alternative to surgery while helping patients return to the activities they love.