Joint pain can make daily activities difficult. Pain levels may vary from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause. New treatments that treat joint issues emerge as regenerative medicine evolves, and one such approach being utilized is stem cell therapy.
What Causes Joint Pain?
Osteoarthritis is a common reason people develop joint pain. It is a degenerative process where the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones wears away. The resulting bone-on-bone contact may lead to symptoms such as pain, limited movement, and swelling. Osteoarthritis often affects the knees, hips, and shoulders.
Rheumatoid arthritis is another source of joint pain, classified as an autoimmune disorder. In this disease, the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints, which causes inflammation. Continued inflammation may damage cartilage and bone within the affected joint.
Injury is another frequent cause of joint discomfort. Trauma from sports activities, falls, or accidents may harm the soft tissues supporting a joint. Tears of the meniscus in the knee often result in immediate pain and cause instability. Overuse injuries, such as tendonitis, can also cause joint pain through inflammation and repetitive strain.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy uses regenerative properties from specific cells to support tissue repair. Stem cells differ from other cell types because they can become several types of specialized cells and replicate over time. When they divide, stem cells may either become new stem cells or turn into more specialized cells. This includes cartilage cells, muscle cells, or blood cells.
There are different types of stem cells. Adult stem cells are found throughout the body, including in bone marrow and fat. Physicians often use adult stem cells harvested from the patient’s own body for treatment.
Utilizing stem cells typically includes three steps: harvesting, processing, and administration. The physician collects stem cells from the patient’s body, and the sample is then concentrated. The concentrated stem cells are injected into the area needing treatment.
How Does It Treat Joint Issues?
Stem cell therapy for joints aims to use the regenerative capacity of stem cells to support healing in damaged tissue. Healthcare professionals deliver concentrated stem cells through an injection directly into the affected joint. Imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, help guide precise placement. Stem cells may affect joint tissue through several mechanisms.
Stem cells injected into joints may develop into cartilage cells, potentially supporting the regeneration of joint surfaces. The extent to which injected stem cells become new cartilage in damaged joints can vary. Researchers continue to study these processes to better understand the potential of stem cells for joint repair, especially in complex conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Consult a Pain Management Specialist
For those with joint pain, evaluation by a pain management specialist is recommended to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Pain management specialists have expertise across a broad range of therapies, which includes conservative treatments like medications. They may discuss and explain stem cell therapy and the treatment process. A consultation can help clarify options tailored to your condition, age, and health.
