Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage at the ends of joints wears away. Known as the “wear and tear” form of arthritis, it’s the most common type and affects millions of people across the globe. It can appear in any joint but is most common in the hands, knees, hips, and spine.

Unfortunately, osteoarthritis is chronic, meaning there is no complete cure for the condition. Nonetheless, research into emerging treatments, including stem cell therapy, is promising.

Stem Cells for Osteoarthritis

Stem cells are the most basic types of cells which can differentiate into specialized cell types. These include adult stem cells, which are found in adipose (fat), bone marrow, and umbilical cord tissue.

Researchers have been using adult stem cells harvested from bone or fat tissue and strategically injecting them into areas where tissue has been compromised, such as the joints. According to their findings, stem cells release anti-inflammatory factors that can reduce pain and promote healing. In a joint, they can alleviate pain and swelling and promote range of motion.

In addition to these benefits, research also suggests that stem cells are safe for OA when using the patient’s own stem cells. Patients experience varying results, with some experiencing long-term pain relief. While everyone may respond slightly differently, it’s critical to find a trusted provider if you’re interested in stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis.

If you’re experiencing painful osteoarthritis, stem cell therapy could be an option for you to consider. From reduced pain and swelling to a better range of motion, improvements may help you return to your daily activities without discomfort.

This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for back pain, also known as degenerative disc disease. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.