Understanding Stem Cell Therapy for Orthopedic Pain Relief
Stem cell therapy has gained more popularity in the recent past due to multiple factors. This form of therapy promises to transform the medical industry completely by treating numerous conditions. Due to the results seen in multiple fields, there has been more research activity towards discovering the full potential of the treatment. Also, there are significant concerns about the cost of this therapy in comparison to alternatives. If you are interested in stem cell therapy for your orthopedic condition and pain relief, here are the most important details that you should understand.
Concept of Stem Cell Therapy
The therapy is the process through which stem cells are collected and injected as a form of treatment. Stem cells can be defined as the undifferentiated cells in the body which can develop into specialized cells in the body and multiply to produce numerous cells. In simple terms, the stem cell has the potential to become diverse types of body cells. This is unlike other body cells which can only produce identical cell replacements.
This characteristic of the stem cell allows regeneration and self-renewal. During therapy, the doctors will inject these cells in an area of concern. The cells will promote regeneration of the damaged tissues. In orthopedic treatment, stem cell treatment is being used to promote the renewal and regeneration of bones and tissues. This procedure is highly beneficial for promoting healing of numerous conditions and injuries in the field.
The Orthopedic Stem Procedure
The orthopedic stem cell treatment is considerably simple and straightforward. The entire process can take a single day, or multiple sessions might be required. This aspect will depend on the exact type of condition being treated. Characteristically, the therapy is considered to be an outpatient procedure. In a typical session, the orthopedic surgeon will need to draw bone marrow with a small needle. The stem cells will be extracted from this biological material.
Before the procedure begins, the doctor will provide appropriate medication to numb the area of extraction. The marrow is usually extracted from the pelvis or hip. When the sample is obtained, it is spun down and concentrated. Finally, the stem cells will be injected into the area which required treatment. In general, this therapy can be used to handle different orthopedic problems in the knees, shoulder joints and hips.
The treatment can also be used on an area where you received an injury or a site of former surgical operation. There is minimal discomfort because only a small incision is required for injection. The clinic will provide intravenous sedation to ensure maximum comfort during your treatment. You will be able to leave when the medication wears off and you are fully awake.
Benefits of Stem Cell Treatment
While this therapy is considerably new in the medical field, there are some obvious benefits which have been identified, especially in the sector of orthopedics. One of the greatest advantages is that you will experience pain relief after the procedure. If you are currently experiencing joint pain and general stress, this option could help you improve your quality of life. In addition, the reduction of pain means less dependence on analgesic medication.
Stem cell treatment increases the flexibility in the joints. Some alternative solutions might reduce pain but leave the debilitating stiffness. This benefit makes this treatment an ideal choice for people who want to increase their range of motion. Stem cells can help promote the production of collagen in the area of injection. This important material wears away with age. In addition, the treatment will promote healing of bones and related structure by jump-starting regeneration.
The Cost of the Treatment
The treatment may be a costly treatment procedure. However, the results of the process are significant and clear. The healing, flexibility and pain relief triggered by the therapy will improve your ability to perform your daily activities with ease. In addition, you will no longer be heavily reliant on pharmaceuticals. You should also note that this treatment is considerably inexpensive in comparison to alternatives like hip or knee replacement.
If you are interested in learning more about stem cell therapy and orthopedic treatment, contact your local orthopedic surgeon for examination and more information.