01/14/2019
Visit http://memphisipg.com/stem-cell-therapy (Memphis Interventional Pain Group) - Dr. Alan J. Kraus
Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. As the cartilage in joints of the body deteriorates, bones begin to rub against one another. This can cause pain and stiffness that makes joint movement difficult. OA can also result in damage to ligaments, menisci and muscles. There are two types of OA - primary and secondary. Primary osteoarthritis is
generally associated with the aging process and is simply the "wear and tear" one endures throughout life. As you become older, the more likely you are to have some degree of primary osteoarthritis; however, this does not mean OA must be a normal aspect of aging. Secondary osteoarthritis tends to develop relatively early in life, typically 10 or more years after a specific cause, such as an injury.
Osteoarthritis most often occurs in shoulders, knees, hips, and hands. The pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis can make it difficult to do daily activities and exercises. In the early stages of OA, damage begins to affect the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces of the body and is limited to a small area. OA is considered a progressive disease where over time, bone
density surrounding the joint increases solidifying a diagnosis. In the late stages of OA, the joint cartilage in the affected area is not only diseased and damaged, but completely worn away. Without that protective plush covering, adjoining bones rub directly against each other causing severe pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Osteoarthritis treatments today focus mainly to relieve symptoms. There is currently no cure for OA but many treatments and therapies are available to maintain joint movement, control pain, and relieve stiffness. Medications such as acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and narcotics
are commonly used to relieve a variety of symptoms. Topical pain relievers are also often prescribed to fight discomfort of diseased joints. Joint injections with local anesthetics and steroids are often utilized to control pain and swelling. Surgery, including joint replacement, may be considered
for severely damaged joints. Assistive devices, physical therapy,
occupational therapy, weight loss, nutritional supplements, and meditation are other approaches offered to help manage the symptoms of OA.
Dr. Alan J. Kraus at Stem Cell Therapy901/Memphis Interventional Pain Group
is able to offer a treatment
protocol that exploits the anti-inflammatory and healing effects
of stem cells (regenerative therapy).
The protocol uses stem cells processed in a safe, effective regenerative fluid derived from post-Cesarean umbilical cord, amniotic materials, and placental birth tissue. The amniotic tissue
matrix includes growth factor, lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and other
nutrients. This product
helps protect, cushion, lubricate, decrease inflammation, and assist the body in the healing and
regeneration process. These stem cells and regenerative fluid are injected directly into the knee under
fluoroscopic guidance. The procedure is done in the clinic and risks are minimal. No intravenous sedation is required but is available upon request.
Stem cell therapy helps the body's natural healing process work faster and more effectively. Recent research in the advancement of stem cell therapy has shown that restoration of these damaged cells through this treatment is
possible. The undifferentiated cells heal the body by replacing ones plagued with disease, regenerating new cells, and suppressing the immune system's macrophage response which engulfs and digests the dying cells. Results of
several early clinical studies of stem cell treatment for OA have shown
promising results. This breakthrough in regenerative medicine shines a light of hope on those battling this degenerative disease. Improvements have been
seen in the following symptoms after treatment:
* Increased energy
* Reduction or elimination of joint pain
* Reduction or elimination of joint tenderness
* Reduction or elimination of joint stiffness
* Increased joint flexibility
* Reduction or elimination of joint swelling
* Reduction in the occurrence of grating sensations
While there is currently no cure for OA, this stem cell protocol can assist in gaining beneficial results
that have shown to improve the life and health of those looking to manage their condition and varied
symptoms. By using stem cell therapy, an alternative is available for thosewho have not responded to typical drug treatment or traditional procedures showing less than optimal results. With stem cell therapy, your journey to the rebuilding process can begin. Certain types of knee problems
including significant meniscal
and ligamentous injuries may not be amenable to regenerative therapy. It is important to evaluate each individual case to assess likelihood of success before attempting regenerative therapy.
