Stem cell therapies can be used to treat many different types of conditions and diseases. Orthopedic conditions are no exception.
Mesenchymal stem cells can be derived from different sources but the most common are derived from adipose (fat), bone marrow aspirate, or donated umbilical cord tissue (Wharton’s Jelly). These cells have the ability to naturally repair and regenerate tissues as well as differentiate to help replace damaged tissues.
Stem cells can be administered systemically through an IV and directly to targeted areas in the musculoskeletal system. This treatment may help to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Stimulate healing
- Grow new healthy tissues
When a stem cell divides, it has the capacity to generate many different types of new cells. Because of this, stem cells may be a powerful tool for treating injured and diseased bodily tissue.
When Are Orthopedic Stem Cell Treatments Useful?
Oftentimes, physicians will use stem cell therapies in combination with other types of treatments such as peptides or prolozone therapy. The standard treatments for orthopedic problems vary by condition.
Common orthopedic problems and conditions include:
- Acute tissue damage, including fractures and dislocations
- Osteoarthritis, a painful inflammation of the joints
- Muscle atrophy and the deterioration of muscle tissue
- Tendinitis or inflammation of tendons
Stem cell therapy may be useful in the treatment of many of these conditions. Doctors often suggest stem cell treatments in conjunction with other approaches.
In part, this is because stem cell therapies involve a new treatment approach. Researchers are continuing to investigate the effectiveness of stem cell therapies for a wide range of diseases and conditions.
What Happens Following Stem Cell Therapy?
Orthopedic stem cell therapy is generally an outpatient procedure. Patients can leave the treatment center on the same day as their stem cell therapy.
Following the procedure, some patients experience swelling or discomfort close to the injection site. The extraction site may also be tender or sensitive. The provider will give specific post-treatment instructions to help the healing process.
In the weeks following stem cell therapy, improvements may begin for patients that will help in their pain management, day to day activity levels, and strengthening capacity. As research continues and current results show promising results, this therapy can be a potential option for patients looking to improve their quality of life.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for Orthopedic also known as Orthopedic Stem cell Therapy. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.