The term “stem cells” is commonly referenced to describe a procedure where a small amount of body tissue containing various types of stem cells for healing is grafted. These cells are sourced from bone marrow in the pelvic region, known as bone marrow aspirate, or from a small quantity of fat tissue from the abdomen or flank. This bone marrow or adipose tissue is then injected by a sports doctor into the area experiencing discomfort or pain. Here are a few ways stem cells can be used to treat orthopedic conditions:
Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Trigger points causing myofascial pain involve muscle bands in sustained contraction. Pain can radiate to other body parts due to underlying spinal issues or trauma. A reputable sports doctor can evaluate repetitive microtrauma causes, such as intense physical activities. Mesenchymal stem cells, derived from your body, aid in tissue repair and pain relief by releasing cytokines and growth factors.
Cell-based therapy for myofascial pain employs two regenerative strategies. Firstly, a cell suspension is injected into circulation, replacing damaged cells to restore tissue function. Secondly, cells are integrated into a three-dimensional matrix, forming functional tissues via tissue engineering. This results in tissue-like structures that replace lost tissue components. Mesenchymal cells are immune-privileged, causing no immune responses.
Rotator Cuff Injuries
The rotator cuff comprises tendons that secure the upper arm bone within the shoulder socket, facilitating arm raising and rotation. Its muscles include the teres minor, infraspinatus, and subscapularis. The teres minor aids in outward arm rotation, while the infraspinatus supports shoulder extension and rotation. The supraspinatus stabilizes the upper arm and maintains humerus positioning. Common rotator cuff injuries encompass tear, tendinopathy, and bursitis.
Stem cell therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating rotator cuff injuries instead of shoulder replacement surgery. This approach utilizes autologous stem cells from the patient’s own body. These stem cells enhance the body’s healing capacity at the site of the dislocated shoulder, promoting internal repair mechanisms without invasive procedures. They have the potential to develop into tendons, cartilage, and muscle cells.
Doctors extract stem cells from the patient’s bone marrow, concentrating them in a lab according to injury severity. Image-guided techniques, such as ultrasound and X-ray fluoroscopy, facilitate precise injection of stem cells into the injury site. Stem cells effectively bolster the body’s innate healing processes at the injury location, resulting in significant pain reduction within weeks following therapy.
Meniscus Tear
A torn meniscus typically results from forceful knee rotation or twisting, exacerbated by weight-bearing activities. Symptoms include knee stiffness, swelling, difficulty straightening, and pain. Stem cell therapy is utilized to regenerate the meniscus by differentiating into fibrous tissue and chondrocytes post-transplantation. Stem cells serve as progenitor cells, enhancing healing in injured menisci by releasing cytokines. Before treatment, a sports doctor will assess your suitability through blood tests and provide information about expected outcomes.
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Cartilage is a resilient tissue that cushions and protects joints. Osteoarthritis develops from its gradual deterioration. Diagnosis involves blood tests and analysis of joint fluid. Stem cell therapy alleviates pain, reduces inflammation, and repairs damaged cartilage. Doctors utilize stem cells from adipose fat or umbilical tissue to treat osteoarthritis. Stem cell implantation aids in tissue repair and hinders further degeneration.
Contact a Sports Doctor Today
Stem cell therapy represents a promising frontier in orthopedic care, offering targeted treatment for various orthopedic conditions. By harnessing the body’s natural healing mechanisms, stem cells contribute to tissue repair and pain relief. Ongoing research and advancements continue to expand the potential of this innovative approach in improving patients’ quality of life. Contact a reputable physician with experience in cell-based therapies today.
