Knee osteoarthritis pain may be safely treated with stem cell transplants — Stem cell transplants in Costa del Sol
24/12/2023A recent meta-analysis found that the best stem cells for reducing knee osteoarthritis pain and function loss are those derived from umbilical tissue or an individual's own adipose fat. The meta-analysis discovered that stem cells safely reduced knee joint pain in every study that was included. Here, we explain these findings and talk about our stem cell transplants in Costa del Sol.
The Study
The meta-analysis, which includes 16 studies with 875 participants, points the way towards the best possible treatment options for knee osteoarthritis. In a world where 365 million people suffer from knee osteoarthritis, this study is worth talking about.
Important Findings
- Stem Cell Sources: The most promising sources are umbilical cord tissue and adipose fat.
- Patient Demographics: 336 men aged 51 to 69 were included in the studies, providing a diverse snapshot of the affected population.
- Treatment Impact: Three months into stem cell treatment, a significant reduction in knee pain was observed.
- Publication: These findings have been published in a reputable orthopaedic research journal.
Understanding Osteoarthritis: A Peek Inside Knee Pain
Before delving into the potential of stem cells, let us look at what happens in osteoarthritis. The knee, which bears the weight of daily life, suffers from cartilage breakdown, resulting in bone-on-bone friction. With a lifetime risk of 40% for men and 47% for women, this global calamity impacts 365 million people.
Contributing Factors
Osteoarthritis in the knee is caused by several factors:
- Stress and Injuries: Frequent stress, fractures, and joint injuries all have an impact.
- Metabolic Diseases: Diabetes and other related illnesses raise the risk.
- Weighty Matters: Being obese increases stress and inflammation.
- Gender and Genetics: Genetics contributes to the higher susceptibility of women.
Regenerative Medicine Unveiled
For knee osteoarthritis sufferers, regenerative medicine presents a glimmer of hope. Medical professionals stress that this field, which also includes platelet-rich plasma injections and stem cell therapy, is not new.
Types of Stem Cells
- Mesenchymal stem cells: These cells have potential and can be obtained from bone marrow, adipose tissue, or umbilical cord.
- Study Focus: Although many stem cells have been investigated, mesenchymal stem cell therapy is the main focus of this meta-analysis.
Alternatives to Stem Cell Therapy
Experts in medicine clarify current therapies:
- Lifestyle Changes: Non-invasive options include weight loss, exercise, and anti-inflammatory diets.
- Physical therapy: Specific exercises can help with pain management, flexibility, and strength.
Life Following Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell implantation has the potential to be transformative, in addition to reducing pain. Experts in medicine anticipate tissue healing, the growth of new cartilage, decreased inflammation, and slowed ageing.
Benefits of Post-Treatment: A Look Ahead
- Pain Reduction: Functional restoration is made possible by decreased patient pain scores.
- Improved Mobility: Improvements in movement and flexibility allow one to resume regular activities.
- Exercise Motivation: The use of stem cell implants could lead to the adoption of recommended exercise regimens for stronger joints.
Although there is hope, prudence is advised. Experts in medicine draw attention to the lack of consistency in treatment plans, highlighting the necessity of additional research to confirm efficacy and safety.
Prioritising stem cells is the way forward.
The following stem cell types are prioritised by the authors of the meta-analysis:
- Umbilical Tissue: The most effective type of stem cells are those derived from umbilical tissues.
- Adipose Fat: A patient's own adipose fat stem cells rank second.
- Bone Marrow: Although useful, mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow perform less well than other types.
Stem cell transplants appear to be a promising treatment option for osteoarthritis in the knee. The meta-analysis offers us a compass to help us navigate these unknown waters, pointing the way towards a time when knees can mend, pain can go away, and mobility can be regained. As we proceed, the promise of regenerative medicine draws us closer to a brand-new era in knee health.
Stem cell transplants in Costa del Sol
Our state-of-the-art facility and our medical team's expertise are examples of our commitment to providing creative healthcare solutions. With a focus on patient well-being and advanced regenerative medicine, Helicopteros Sanitarios Hospital stands at the forefront of medical excellence, providing transformative stem cell treatments in Costa del Sol.