Ignatios Papas, DO, RMSK, is a non-surgical orthopedic physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Regenexx at New Regeneration Orthopedics. Dr. Papas’ clinical practice focuses on Interventional Orthobiologics offering Regenexx procedures, which are highly specific, precise image-guided injection procedures that can promote the body’s healing ability and improve pain and function. Dr. Papas also performs micro-invasive Carpal Tunnel Release under ultrasound guidance, which allows patients to resolve carpal tunnel syndrome and return to normal activity in as little as 3-6 days. Additionally, he utilizes Tenex Health procedures for chronic tendon pain or bone spurs and uses Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for a variety of conditions in his practice.
Education and Credentials
● Registered in Musculoskeletal Sonography (RMSK)
● Clinical Regenerative Orthopedic Medicine Training (Interventional Orthopedic Foundation)
● Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
● Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
● Master of Science in Medical Science with a focus on Neuroscience & Aging from University of South Florida
● Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Microbiology from University of Central Florida, Minor in History
Accomplishments
● Research collaborator with Columbia University Medical Center/Weill Cornell University and Stanford University on multiple projects.
● Peer reviewer for PM&R, The Journal of Injury, Function and Rehabilitation.
● Chief Resident at Carolinas Medical Center – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
● Medical Educator of the Year – Carolinas Medical Center
Lectures
● Michigan State University
● University of South Florida
● Carolinas Medical Center
● American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
● American Osteopathic College of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
● Interventional Orthopedic Foundation
● Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Personal Interests
When he isn’t practicing medicine, he enjoys spending time with his wife and young children, playing soccer, practicing guitar or piano, and listening to historical podcasts.
5/5
"Amazing transformation!"
“I was in a car accident that left me broken in more ways than one. I didn’t understand what to do as far as my post recovery was concerned, so I took the advice of my Attorney, who was just trying to help, and I ended up going through Chiropractic treatments that didn’t help. All of my treatments ended and I was no better than before, so I started doing research about what would help a herniated disc instead of going through surgery to replace the disc. I went to a Doctor I follow named Dr. Axe and he suggested Regenxx was the best option for my injury. After receiving injections in my cervical area and following up with Physical Therapy, I am completely better!! Dr. Papas is amazing and took the time to show he really cares. He went over and beyond. Everyone at Regenxx is kind, caring, and extremely helpful!”
I have cerebral palsy in my left side and have received two achilles tendon lengthening surgeries. I wanted to avoid a third surgery and Dr. Papas (great guy) recommended the extracorpeal shockwave treatments. After completing 5 weeks of sessions by achilles now feels the best it ever has!read more
Matt Smith
16:15 11 Apr 23
Dr. Papas treated my lower back, knee and neck. Before treatment I was in so much pain and could walk well or stand straight and needed assistance. Since treatment I can stand straight, take a nice long walk with no assistance and have better movement in all treated areas. Truly been a life changing experience and Dr. Papas and entire staff have been so supportive. I would highly recommend Dr. Papas and this treatment! I truly cannot say enough good about the whole experience!read more
Lori Cox
15:21 01 Apr 23
I've been treated by Dr. Papas for whiplash pain after a car accident as well as jaw pain due to TMJ and both procedures were very successful. All of the office staff is friendly and knowledgeable.read more
Emily Popson
20:18 22 Feb 23
I had the procedure done on both knees. One September 2022 and December 2022. I had immediate relief. I had no swelling or pain and was able to return some activities immediately. I had good experience with Dr.Papas and all the staff in Orlando location and Tampa Bay. I don’t regret having the procedure. I have my life back.read more
Carolyn Sirmans
18:08 07 Feb 23
I had very crippling arthritis in my neck. Doc Papas suggested PRP treatment. My pain was so bad I had no other choice but reply ye Ts. It is amazing that everyday my neck is better.Thank you very much Doctor Papas.read more
Vincent Morton
19:39 08 Dec 22
I tore my supraspinatus tendon playing golf and tried everything, PT, acupuncture, massage for 6 months with no improvement and very limited movement. Was heading for ortho surgical repair option when my trainer recommended I get a consultation with Dr Papas since he had seen success with this natural, less invasive treatment that only required a couple of months recovery rather than a year. I wanted to get back to golf and swimming but was skeptical. I just went back for my 6 week post treatment check up and the tear was gone, my mobility has increased almost completely back to normal with ongoing PT and happy to say I can finally get back to basic things like doing up my bra, shaving my legs and putting my hair up! Would definitely recommend and in the end the cost was less than it would be with insurance deductibles on ‘standard’ surgical options. Not to mention much faster recovery. PT also affirmed that they had seen a lot of success with this type of procedure (PRP) in patients for neck, hip, knee and ankle injuries as well. Only downside in my particular case what’s that the injection was more painful than expected.read more
Maria C
14:29 24 Nov 22
Dr. Papas has help me get back on my feet again. I want to thank for his dedication and knowledge and getting back to riding my bicycle and running. The care provided by him and his staff was outstanding and highly recommended Regenexx Tampa Bay.read more
Marcus Sanchez
21:46 27 Oct 22
I have been very pleased with my experience at Tampa Bay Regenexx. Dr. Papas is extremely thorough with all that he does. It’s more than just accomplishing a procedure with him. His goal for his patients is to make sure they fully recover and get back to being able to doing the activities they enjoy. I appreciate the way he listens and takes the time to explain things in a way that I can understand. I highly recommend him!read more
Laura Bostrom
17:12 17 Aug 22
Dr. Papas was extremely thorough with his initial evaluation and took his time to understand my challenges and goals. We then worked out a plan and are now 3 months post procedure. I continue to see improvements. I waited to write this review as I wanted to see signs of progress as stem cell recovery takes time. If you’re thinking about going this route, I recommend you see Dr Papas.read more
Eric Carson
17:47 03 Jun 22
I recently had a situation where I had been driving several miles and when I reached my location, I could barely walk after getting out of the car. This was sudden and likely a result of old injuries to my low back. I had not experienced this particular issue before. It was difficult to walk, and the pain was rather intense. Doctor Papas recommend and performed a platelet procedure on my low back and the results are amazing! I had relief almost immediately and a week later I’m feeling better than ever! Any apprehension I had about having injections quickly faded away when the medical team walked me through the process and kept me well informed through the procedure. I felt completely at ease with their professionalism and level of care. For anyone who is experiencing pain I would recommend this. The procedure was quick and painless and the results have been better than I could have imagined. Thank you doctor Papas for providing this service and for talking my pain away. I’m so grateful to you and the staff.read more
Kimberly Langlois
13:51 02 Jun 22
I am 72 years old and an active tennis player. The cumulative effect of years of activity caused a degeneration of a tendon in my left hip. My orthopedic doctor's only solution was therapy and yoga. Regenexx Dr Papas diagnosed the problem and suggested stem cell therapy. It has been six weeks since my procedure and the results are noticeable. Improved mobility, sustained play without pain, and recovery time have all shown improvement. The improvement and the process are consistent with my expectations and what is described in the Regenexx literature. I anticipate continued improvement in the weeks and months ahead.read more
Gary Bartlett
18:58 25 May 22
Dr. Papas did a procedure on my knee. I had multiple issues with it I am 6 weeks post op and feel the best I have felt in 18 months. This is a great alternative to surgery !!!! Highly suggest stem cell therapy!!read more
Jason Spairana
16:13 25 May 22
I’m a fourth year medical student who had the privilege of working with Dr. Papas on an Ultrasound Course in Tampa. I had an outstanding experience, as I found him to be exceptionally personable, professional, and insightful. I would highly recommend anyone to see Dr. Papas for care.read more
Eric Nicolau
01:56 25 May 22
Great group of people. Doctor Papas is fabulous and totally wanting to solve the problems. The employees are great
Philip Ruck
23:43 12 May 22
Miracle results with Platelet Injection from DR. Papas. S-1stenosis had me sleepless with constant sciatica. 30 days after treatment I started improving daily. 3 months later I'm pain free and playing tennis and mountain biking full bore. A pain free 1 hour treatment gave me my life back. See Dr. Papas for your best results.read more
bob brodhead
16:05 11 May 22
I researched this type of procedure for two years before deciding to go ahead with it. The first time, I made a mistake and as a result my pain remained. This 2nd time, I chose Regenexx because they are the real deal.I had a previous procedure done in Longwood, FL (where I live), and it was a complete sham in comparison. It literally cost me over $5,000 more than Regenexx, who did a much more thorough and indepth consultation. The procedure versus the Longwood practice I went to was as different as night and day. At Regenexx, it felt so professional, friendly, clean, sterile.At the Longwood location, I was asked to lay down on a what looks like a chiropractic table, no one wore gloves, and there was no M.D. involved. A nurse practitioner injected me with 6 shots. I was done in 7 minutes and sent out the door. At Regenexx, the prep and procedure lasted approx two hours. I was well looked after and they walked/talked me through every step of the PRP procedure. Dr. Papas, who is an extraordinary doctor, plus 3 others were present to assist. All wore surgical gloves, masks and gowns.I had the procedure done 9/26/19, and today is 10/5/19. I can honestly say my low back is feeling so much better already. I wasn't even sure that was possible, but each morning I awake, my back pain has lessened. Quite a few hours during the day, I don't experience any pain any longer. Amazing!!! I drove two hours each way to have them do my low back procedure, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I highly recommend Regenexx and especially Dr. Papas!!read more
Margareta Mauser
18:19 10 May 22
As a senior medical student, I worked with Dr. Papas on an Ultrasound Course. His experience and professionalism made the workshop a great success! He had great attention to detail in both preparing for and while teaching the course. I would gladly send my family his way, as I am confident they would receive magnificent care.read more
Andrew Coryea
01:36 03 May 22
I am in a unique position with Dr. Ignatios Papas and his staff and Regenexx Tampa Bay. I am a Physical Therapist who treats some of his patients as well as being a patient myself. All the reports his patients give me are 100% accurate. He takes the time with each person, gives full answers and doesn't let you leave without knowing what is going to happen or why. I have had wonderful experiences with him and his staff during my time as both a PT and patient. I 100% recommend Dr. Papas and his staff for any procedure you may be needing.read more
Jeremy Palubin
18:08 02 May 22
I was a complete skeptic of PRP but figured the downside risk was minimal.Dr. Papas is an amazing healer. Within weeks of my PRP procedure my pain was reduced by 95%. It is now 6 months since my procedure and my pain has subsided by 99%!!! I am very grateful for Dr. Papas and am now a strong believer in PRP. Living Pain Free is something I will be eternally grateful for.read more
Captian Ahab
16:27 20 Apr 22
I had Carpal Tunnel release with ultrasonic guidance done by Dr. Ignatios Papas. I was in severe pain and unable to sleep more than a few hours at night because of the pain. I had the procedure done, minimal pain and discomfort and slept like a baby that night. The swelling is starting to go down and my strength and range of motion are coming back. I would recommend this to anyone suffering from Carpel Tunnel syndrome. In addition the entire staff was very competent and caring making sure I was kept aware of everything and just wonderful. Thanks for everything!read more
Art Carlo
19:38 13 Apr 22
This is the doctor you need to see and the treatment you need to get if you have osteoarthritis! I was in route to get a knee replacement until I met with Dr. Papas. I went from being unable to stand without severe pain for 9 months to walking around and getting back to my normal life in 6 weeks. Wish I had known about him sooner. The facilities and the staff are very welcoming, understanding, and are centered on how they can best help you. I am recommending everyone one go here before attempting major surgery and dealing with long term pain management.read more
Mimi Jean
16:18 23 Mar 22
I highly recommend Regenexx. The staff is supportive and professional. Dr. Papas is thorough, easy to talk to, and is extremely knowledgeable.read more
Loren Buckner
14:00 05 Mar 22
I have been suffering with back pain due to herniated discs in my lower back. In fear for years of “getting cut” for this and having irreversible effect I finally found Dr Papas!I watched the very informative videos on YouTube, visited his office for a consultation and was convinced that the downside was minimal at best but the results could be LIFE CHANGING…… THEY WERE! Nothing short of a miracle. I have a new lease on life! FYI 2-3 day recovery tops, then physical therapy. AMAZING! Dr Papas and Regennex are the upmost professionals. THANK YOU!read more
John DiSantis
14:24 17 Feb 22
I found Dr. Papas and Regenexx through a family friend after 4+ months of severe back pain. I am in my early 40s and am active and healthy so to have debilitating back pain was a true crutch to my lifestyle. I saw chiropractors, had massages, went to Physical Therapy you name it and nothing was improving. A family friend found a lot of relief from the Regenexx group so I figured I would try it. After a thorough consult with Dr. Papas in the St. Petersburg office it was clear that the PRP (platelet rich plasma) procedure would truly solve my issue. We scheduled it for a month from the consult and the staff walked me through the entire procedure prior to my appointment. The actual procedure start to finish was maybe an hour. I went home and rested that afternoon with very minimal pain. The next day I was able to complete tasks regularly and after 4 weeks I saw extreme improvement. I am now 8 weeks post-procedure and I have ZERO pain. I am slowly easing back into my workout routine and feel great! Thank you to Dr. Papas and his staff for everything. I am so grateful to have my physical health back and could not recommend Regenexx to more people. I feel like a walking testimonial- I am telling everyone about my success story!read more
Ray
17:16 10 Feb 22
So thankful I found Regenexx and Dr Papas. I was diagnosed with a bulged and torn L5 disk. Was told by another doctor that a disk replacement was my best option. I found regenexx and had a consult. Two weeks later I had the platelet procedure done. Had it done on a thursday and was back at work on Monday. Now 6 weeks later and feel great. I am back to working out and cycling. I love the fact that they tell you to be active to aid recovery. I can't recommend Dr Papas and the procedure more!read more
chris alamorian
17:55 04 Feb 22
I am so blessed to found Regenexx. Dr. Papas is so knowledgeable and even more he has the ability to explain everything to you clearly so you can understand what, when where and why. I also went to three other doctors before who clearly talk out of their a s s and it’s obvious because they could not explain in detail. He knows his stuff and I trust him completely. He is a regenerative medicine doctor- not an orthopedic pretending to deliver stem cells. 100% recommend him. I’m excited for the future.read more
Baby Doc
14:56 22 Jan 22
In 2020 I was looking at knee replacement surgery until I found Dr. Papas at Regenexx. He had me go through his recommended combination PRP and Stem cell treatment to improve my knee joint. Now a year later still walking, no more baker cyst, etc. He is the best and knows his stuff!read more
Eric Chambers
01:05 15 Dec 21
I love Regenexx and Dr Papas! They have helped me finally be able to play my instrument again. I went in to check if I had carpal tunnel and I had a medium case of it in my right wrist. The surgery wasn’t too bad and my wrist healed up pretty quickly in about 3 weeks. I had doctor Papas and he was such a pleasure to talk with, he humored me on all of my medical questions and did an amazing job explaining everything. The procedure is so damn cheap too compared to the normal surgery. I can’t thank this place enough for giving me my passion back in playing piano and guitar without pain anymore. If you’re wondering if it’s right for you just go this place is amazing!read more
Brendon Menendez
16:00 29 Oct 21
Thank you Regenexx Tampa Bay! Thank you Dr Ignatios Papas! My 2nd and 3rd posterior cervical injections (jan 2021 and July 2021) helped bigtime with pain relief! Ive had over 90% pain reduction my 2nd treatement this January ‘21. C3-T2 facet / ligaments injected, with a combination of SCP, PRP, PPP into trigger points.I highly recommend Dr Pappas @ Regenexx Tampa Bay! Pillars in the interventional orthopedics field! Orthobiologic’s are the future an the work yall do is appreciated.For anyone with a cervical neck injury, you can see more about my rehab on my stories robynhay617 Instagram.read more
Robyn Hay
22:43 16 Sep 21
I had a great experience with Dr Papas and the PRP treatment done on my knee, hip and shoulder (old sports injuries, tears on all of these areas).Dr Papas really listens and meets you were you are. I made him aware of the efforts and programs I was engaging in to help rehab from my injuries. I greatly appreciate that he partners with you to identify what level of support you need and doesn't just treat you like a statistics. I am in my 30s and weight 240, I had PRP done in May 2021.Now to the meat of it, I have/had lateral and medial miniscus tears on my left knee and was looking to having it scoped (I had already scoped my other knee which now has arthiritis). I also had labral tear and some damage to rotator cuff on my shoulder and hip labral tears. I did a lot of research and thought I give Regenexx a shot. I had PRP done previously by a knee surgeon but this was a completely different experience and it is all in the methodology.I was in constant pain on all three areas and had just learned to live with it. I wasn't expecting drastic response was just looking for some pain relieve. To my surprise my hip pain literally went away on day 1, like gone. Something that, IR, Red light therapy, cold lazer, PT, supplements had no impact on.As for my shoulder, this go me scared as I was in pain and had the shoulder popping for the first 4 to 6 weeks post procedure. Dr Papas warned me that this would happen but because of how good my knee and hip felt I was concerned that something had gone wrong. Week 7 all of the popping went away and pain was reduced by 70 to 80 percent.I don't usually give reviews but this has truly been life changing for, I was literally facing knee replacement surgery(yes you read that right). I had been wearing compression knee braces practically 24 hours a day 7 days a week for years and could not lay my leg straight without numbness and pain.I have not worn knee braces since I had the procedure done! I find it weird to walk around in shorts and to be able to see my knees rather than knee braces.I grew up playing sports and lifting, now that I am a parent I feared that I would not be able to coach and do what brought me so much joy with my kids. I don't feel this way anymore.Thank you, Dr Papasread more
Albert Mojica
23:46 22 Jul 21
I had a great experience with Dr. Papas and the staff at Regenexx Tampa Bay! I sustained a hip labral tear and was able to get evaluated by Dr. Papas, and he recommended a PRP injection to heal the area. After the procedure, PT as well as OMT therapy helped me resume normal activities a few months later, and an ultrasound scan reveals the tear has completely healed. That would not have been possible with physical therapy alone, which is all my GP had recommended. I'm convinced that interventional orthopedics like the treatment I had from Regenexx are a far superior solution to the standard care options offered by most doctors. If you are considering surgery or other treatment for an orthopedic injury of some kind, I highly recommend reaching out to Regenexx for a consultation, because they may be able to help you get back to your normal activities faster, with better long term healing and much less pain.read more
Heather Gordon
02:40 21 Jul 21
Dr Papas and the Tampa Regenexx staff are awesome! My procedure for a torn meniscus provided a full recovery with minimal downtime. Starting PT before the procedure and continuing it after were instrumental to my fast recovery. Had I opted for surgery, I would have been down for months… with the stem cell/PRP alternative, I was significantly improved in a matter of weeks.read more
Sherry Morgan
16:17 19 Jul 21
As someone who gets extremely nervous in any medical situation, I have truly never felt more comfortable than I did in this office. My appointment included a blood draw in the morning and the procedure in the afternoon. I was extremely nervous upon arrival for the blood draw and Anna took the time to talk me through everything. She gave me options on how we could do things and kept me distracted the whole time. She let me ask a ton of questions about my upcoming procedure and I was extremely pleased when I found out she would be there too. Once I returned for the procedure, I spoke with Dr Papas who also communicated with me throughout the entire process and made me feel as comfortable as possible in such a vulnerable position. He continuously asked how I was doing and updated me as to how much more we had left. Throughout the whole procedure Anna was there, being just as amazing and supportive. I had picked Regenexx for my procedure due to their extremely thorough consultation and beautiful offices. I dealt with Kimberly for the booking and payment process. She was very helpful and explained all of my options at length. Thank you so, so much to everyone at Regenexx! I cannot recommend them enough.read more
Abigail Beardsley
13:39 17 Jul 21
I consider Dr. Papas, his team and Regenexx the gold standard in orthobiologics. Within a 3-year period, I’ve had multiple areas treated with stem cells, PRP, Platelet Lysate (for my back) and most recently my own fat.I started seeing Dr. Papas for OMT. In the process we discussed some pain I was still having with my hamstring, wrist and hip which was waking me at night. He suggested a fat injection for my wrist and hamstring and PRP for my hip. Ultrasound showed my hamstring had considerable wear. I had a 60 to 70 percent tear in my hamstring before having stem cells with Regenexx in 2018. OMT was for a rib sliding and irritating a nerve causing a sharp pain in my chest. Dr. Papas is such a skilled OMT provider and with adjustments and PRP injected where the rib connects to my spine to strengthen it, the sharp pain has eased off tremendously. I’m now over 6 weeks post procedures and 90% pain free!! No more waking at night from hip pain!It’s very comforting to know that I can have future problems treated by Dr. Papas. He’s earned my trust and he and his team make you feel as comfortable as possible before and during your procedure. He’s very knowledgeable and professional with a caring and calm approach. Takes time to answer all questions and explain procedures. I urge anyone considering orthopedic surgery or dealing with joint pain to see Dr. Papas first. It may not be covered by insurance, but I consider it an investment in my health both physically and mentally. And at 71, I want to stay as active as I can. I’m back to enjoying activities I thought I’d have to give up. I had just about given up on my arthritic wrist thinking I would need surgery and now I’m back to including full body pushups in my work outs. Thank you so much, Dr. Papas and team!!read more
Sally Serralles
01:47 17 Jun 21
I came to Regenexx and meant with Dr. Papas in early March 2021. I suffered a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma 10-30-2019. I had been told my current state of pain and inability to do everyday life was probably my best prognosis. Dr. Papas did the most thorough and informative exam I had had since my life changing event. He suggested Platelet-Rich Plasma treatment as a possible option to help me. He was very up front with me, stating My situation was a little unique.My first treatment was March 16th and I felt gradual improvement. By May I was walking with less pain and able to do more upright activities which I felt was about 70% improvement. I had a second treatment last week. I am looking forward to seeing how much farther my usefulness of my neck and mid back will improve.Thank you Dr. Papas and your team at Regenexx, Tampa Bay.Sheryl Runionread more
Sheryl Runion
14:29 01 Jun 21
It was comforting knowing there was someone on staff helping me with every step of the way. Once I made my decision, I was given a great deal of information regarding each procedure. If ever a question arose, the support staff was there to answer my concerns.The healing process went along nicely and I was very pleased with the results of my stem cell procedure. I continue to do my physical therapy exercises and I am more mobile than I was before.From the very pleasant reception to the follow-up appointments, Dr. Papas and his staff couldn’t be more informative and friendly. I highly recommend Regenexx if you experience joint pain.read more
Beverly Gonczar
14:55 15 Apr 21
Watch: Is Regenexx Right for You? Dr. Papas Exlains
Latest Posts By Ignatios Papas, DO
Maintaining Healthy Knee Cartilage: Incorporating Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Ignatios Papas, DO May 22, 2023
The knee is one of the most important joints in your body in order to continue to do the things we love to do as we age. Unfortunately, the knee
How Can Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Help with Lateral Hip Pain?
Ignatios Papas, DO March 28, 2023
Common Hip Issue: Trochanteric Pain Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a common condition that affects the lateral aspect of the hip. It is characterized by pain in the region
I Have A Cartilage Defect In My Knee – Now What?
Ignatios Papas, DO March 15, 2023
Cartilage Repair in Traditional Orthopedics When it comes to cartilage injury in the knee, medical technology has offered several different surgeries and procedures for its repair. MACI stands for Matrix-Induced
How Does Shockwave Therapy Affect Bone and Cartilage?
Ignatios Papas, DO February 6, 2023
Shockwave Therapy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), has been used more and more for musculoskeletal conditions ranging from tendon tears to fractures, arthritis and swollen bones. The use of ESWT over
PLANTAR FASCIITIS AND SHOCKWAVE
Ignatios Papas, DO January 12, 2023
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain experienced by millions of Americans and can lead to difficulty walking, running or even standing without pain. Let’s talk about the
Can Shockwave Therapy Treat Achilles Tendinopathy?
Ignatios Papas, DO December 15, 2022
What is Achilles Tendinitis? Achilles tendinitis is a common condition that classically affects athletes in jumping or running sports. The pain, inflammation and impaired physical function from Achilles tendinitis can
