Osteoarthritis is a widespread form of arthritis that impacts millions of people globally. It occurs when the protective cartilage that covers the ends of bones breaks down. While it can affect any joint, the hands, knees, hips, and spine are the most commonly affected areas.
The progression of osteoarthritis tends to be gradual, with symptoms worsening over time. Common symptoms include:
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Pain in the affected joints during or after movement
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Joint stiffness
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Tenderness when light pressure is applied to the area
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Reduced flexibility
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Swelling caused by soft tissue inflammation
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage, which normally cushions the bones, deteriorates. Cartilage is a firm yet slippery tissue that facilitates smooth joint movement. As this cartilage wears down, it can lead to bones rubbing against each other, especially in severe cases.
Often called a “wear and tear” disease, osteoarthritis doesn’t just damage cartilage. It also affects the bones, deteriorates the connective tissues supporting the joint, and causes inflammation in the joint lining.
Stem cell therapy has shown promise in treating osteoarthritis by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Stem cells, which have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, can help regenerate damaged cartilage and support joint healing. This regenerative approach offers a potential alternative to traditional treatments for osteoarthritis.
The exact cause of osteoarthritis remains uncertain, but it is generally understood to develop gradually over time. Primary osteoarthritis is commonly linked to the aging process, where the natural wear and tear on the joints over the years can cause the cartilage to break down, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
However, various factors can contribute to the onset of osteoarthritis. These include:
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Joint injuries: Any direct damage to the joints, whether from sports-related injuries, falls, or accidents, can lead to the development of osteoarthritis. These injuries might disrupt the normal function of the joints, causing the cartilage to deteriorate more quickly.
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Health conditions affecting the joints: Some conditions, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or joint hypermobility syndrome, directly impact the joints and make them more vulnerable to cartilage breakdown, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
In addition to these factors, certain forms of arthritis, particularly inflammatory types, can also trigger osteoarthritis. These include:
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Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, which over time can damage the cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis.
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Gout: A type of arthritis caused by high uric acid levels in the blood, leading to the formation of crystals in the joints, which can damage the cartilage and lead to osteoarthritis.
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Psoriatic arthritis: This condition, which often occurs alongside psoriasis, causes inflammation in the joints, potentially leading to cartilage wear and osteoarthritis.
While the precise cause of osteoarthritis can vary from person to person, these factors play a significant role in its development.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition that often develops gradually and worsens over time. The symptoms may vary in intensity, but common signs of osteoarthritis include:
Pain
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Description: Pain is one of the most prominent symptoms of osteoarthritis. It typically occurs during or after movement of the affected joint. The pain may be mild in the early stages but can become more severe as the condition progresses. As the joint cartilage wears down, bones may rub against each other, leading to increased discomfort. This pain can affect daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even simple movements like gripping objects.
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Impact: Pain may worsen after physical activities or periods of excessive use. The pain may also be present at rest in more advanced stages, especially at night.
Stiffness
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Description: Joint stiffness is another common symptom that usually becomes more noticeable after periods of inactivity. It is especially apparent upon waking up in the morning or after sitting still for long periods. The stiffness occurs because the synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint, is less effective in the damaged joint, leading to reduced mobility.
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Impact: The stiffness can make it challenging to perform routine tasks like bending, stretching, or even getting out of bed in the morning.
Tenderness
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Description: The affected joint may feel tender when light pressure is applied directly to or around the joint. This tenderness is often due to the inflammation in the joint lining (synovium) or the bone spur formation. As the condition progresses, the soft tissues surrounding the joint become inflamed, which increases sensitivity to touch.
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Impact: The tenderness can make it painful to touch or apply pressure on the joint, which may be particularly noticeable while performing activities such as dressing or even resting on the affected area.
Swelling
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Description: Swelling in and around the affected joint is a common result of inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. As the cartilage degenerates, the body attempts to repair itself by increasing the production of synovial fluid, leading to swelling. This may cause the joint to look visibly larger and feel warm to the touch.
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Impact: Swelling can make the joint feel stiff and uncomfortable, contributing to limited mobility. It may be particularly noticeable after prolonged activity or at the end of the day when the joint has been in use.
Grating Sensation
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Description: A grating or grinding sensation, known as crepitus, can occur when the damaged cartilage causes rough surfaces on the bones. When the joint moves, these rough surfaces rub against each other, creating a grating feeling or sound. This is most commonly noticed when moving the joint through its range of motion.
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Impact: The grating sensation can be disconcerting, and over time, it may become louder or more noticeable with movement. In some cases, people may also hear popping or crackling sounds as the joint moves.
Loss of Flexibility
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Description: As osteoarthritis progresses, the affected joint may lose its full range of motion. This loss of flexibility occurs because the cartilage has worn down, reducing the joint’s ability to move freely. Additionally, muscle weakness and joint stiffness can further limit the joint’s range of motion.
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Impact: The inability to move the joint as easily as before can make everyday tasks difficult, such as bending, twisting, or lifting. Activities like dressing, driving, or exercising may become increasingly challenging.
Bone Spurs
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Description: Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are extra bits of bone that develop around the affected joint. These growths occur as the body tries to repair the damaged joint by forming new bone. Bone spurs are typically felt as hard lumps around the joint and may cause pain or discomfort if they press on nearby tissues or nerves.
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Impact: Although bone spurs themselves may not always be painful, they can interfere with joint movement and contribute to the overall discomfort and stiffness. In some cases, the bone spurs may cause nerve compression, leading to further pain or numbness in nearby areas.
The diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA) involves a comprehensive approach, combining your medical history, a physical examination, and various lab tests.
If you’re dealing with joint pain, your primary care doctor will likely be the first professional you consult. They will begin by reviewing your medical background, understanding your symptoms, and assessing how the pain impacts your daily activities. Your current medical conditions and medications will also be considered. In addition to physically examining your joints and assessing their movement, the doctor may recommend diagnostic imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Some of the key tests include:
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Joint Aspiration: This involves numbing the joint area and using a needle to extract fluid. The fluid is then examined to check for infection or the presence of crystals, which can help differentiate osteoarthritis from other conditions or types of arthritis.
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X-ray: An X-ray can help detect any damage to the bones or joints, revealing changes that may be linked to osteoarthritis.
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MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a detailed view of the cartilage and other joint structures, providing valuable insights into the extent of joint damage.
As life expectancy increases, health professionals are seeing a rise in knee osteoarthritis cases. This chronic condition has become a global issue, with a disease burden comparable to cardiac arrhythmias or end-stage kidney disease, and it significantly impacts quality of life.
With the growing prevalence of knee osteoarthritis, medical professionals are continuously exploring the best treatment options for their patients. Recently, stem cell therapy has emerged as a popular treatment option, and many of my patients have been curious about its efficacy. To provide clarity, here’s an overview of stem cell treatment for knee osteoarthritis—how it works, its potential benefits, and the future of this therapy.
What is Stem Cell Treatment?
Stem cell treatment involves using the patient’s own cells to regenerate or repair damaged tissues. In the case of knee osteoarthritis, mesenchymal stem cells (specialized for joint-related issues) are harvested and injected into the knee joint. These cells aim to regenerate deteriorated tissue and may also help regulate the immune system and hormonal systems, both of which are often disrupted in osteoarthritis. If successful, this treatment may help patients avoid knee replacement surgery.
Are There Any Side Effects?
While there isn’t enough evidence yet to confirm the exact side effects of stem cell treatment for osteoarthritis, some patients may experience joint stiffness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. These are typically temporary and should subside within a few days.
Why Isn’t This Treatment Administered Regularly?
Although stem cell research has been ongoing since the 1970s and has shown promising results in other areas of medicine, there are still very few trials specific to knee osteoarthritis. No study currently proves that stem cell treatment can cure osteoarthritis or prevent the need for knee replacement surgery.
What Does the Future Hold for Stem Cell Treatment?
Due to the lack of high-level evidence, stem cell treatment for knee osteoarthritis can only be used in well-monitored clinical trials. Once long-term studies are completed, we may be able to recommend widespread use of stem cell therapy. As I always tell my patients, if this treatment had been proven to be far superior to all other options, we would already be using it, as preventing or reversing osteoarthritis is certainly better than the current surgical options.
What Treatments Are Available for Knee Osteoarthritis?
If you have been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, it’s important to consult with a specialist knee surgeon who can evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment. This is especially crucial if you’re experiencing the following symptoms:
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Swelling around the knee
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Knee stiffness
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Pain that worsens with movement or activity
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A hot sensation around the knee
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Creaking sounds when moving
Some common treatments for knee osteoarthritis include corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, PRP injections, and joint supplements. The effectiveness of these treatments can vary, and patients with more severe osteoarthritis may ultimately require a knee replacement.
Additionally, managing the condition through non-impact exercise, weight loss to reduce pressure on the knee joint, and painkillers when necessary can help improve symptoms and quality of life.
Where to Get Stem Cell Treatment for Knee: Top Destinations
If you’re looking for stem cell treatment for knee issues, India has become one of the top destinations for advanced regenerative therapies. With state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly skilled doctors, India offers world-class care at a fraction of the cost found in many Western countries. Leading hospitals and clinics, such as Viezec, provide personalized stem cell treatments for knee conditions like osteoarthritis and injuries. These treatments aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore knee function. With a growing medical tourism industry, India is the ideal location for affordable and effective knee stem cell therapy.
Stem Cell Therapy for Knees: Cost in India
Stem cell therapy for knees in India offers significant cost savings compared to other countries while maintaining high standards of care. The treatment costs are much lower in India, making it an affordable option for patients seeking relief from knee conditions such as arthritis, cartilage damage, or ligament injuries. The cost can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the type of stem cell therapy used, and the hospital or clinic you choose. However, India’s medical facilities provide cutting-edge treatments at competitive rates, making it a popular destination for affordable and high-quality knee stem cell therapy.
What is the Success Rate of Stem Cell Therapy for Knees?
The success rate of stem cell therapy for knees varies depending on the patient’s condition, age, and overall health. However, numerous studies and clinical trials show positive results, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis and cartilage damage. In many cases, patients experience significant improvements in pain relief, mobility, and quality of life. While individual outcomes may vary, stem cell therapy for knees has shown promising success in reducing inflammation, repairing damaged tissues, and delaying the need for knee replacement surgery. Consulting with a specialist will help determine the best approach for your specific knee condition.
Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for osteoarthritis (OA), offering potential relief from pain and improved joint function. The delivery method used for stem cells plays a crucial role in determining the treatment’s effectiveness. Here are some of the primary stem cell delivery methods for osteoarthritis treatment:
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Intra-articular Injection:
The most common and minimally invasive method, intra-articular injection involves the direct injection of stem cells into the affected joint. This approach allows stem cells to target the damaged cartilage and tissue, promoting healing and regeneration. The procedure is typically done in a clinical setting under local anesthesia, with minimal recovery time required. It’s effective for knee, hip, and shoulder osteoarthritis. -
Intravenous Delivery:
In intravenous (IV) delivery, stem cells are injected into the bloodstream via an IV drip. This method allows for systemic distribution of stem cells throughout the body. Although not as targeted as intra-articular injections, IV delivery may still offer benefits for osteoarthritis by promoting overall tissue regeneration and immune modulation. This method is typically used for more generalized or multiple joint involvement. -
Bone Marrow Aspiration and Injection:
In some cases, stem cells are extracted from the patient’s bone marrow—often from the hip bone—and then injected into the affected joint. This method concentrates stem cells in the area of injury, enhancing the regeneration of damaged cartilage and surrounding tissues. Bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) are rich in mesenchymal stem cells, which have demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. -
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells:
Stem cells can also be harvested from a patient’s fat tissue (adipose tissue) through liposuction. These adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are then processed and injected directly into the affected joint. ADSCs are considered potent for cartilage repair due to their regenerative properties and ability to support tissue growth. The extraction process is relatively quick, and the recovery time is minimal. -
Scaffold-Based Delivery:
In some advanced treatments, stem cells are combined with a scaffold—a biodegradable material that supports the growth and repair of tissue—before being injected into the joint. This method ensures that stem cells stay in place longer, improving the chances of successful cartilage regeneration and overall joint healing. Scaffold-based treatments are still under investigation but show promising results for long-term joint recovery.
Each of these delivery methods has its own advantages depending on the severity of osteoarthritis, the joint affected, and the patient’s health status. The choice of delivery method is typically personalized based on the patient’s needs, with the goal of maximizing the healing potential of stem cells and reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Cartilage, which covers the ends of bones, allows them to move smoothly with minimal friction. However, in osteoarthritis (OA), this protective layer is damaged, leading to increased friction. This causes pain, swelling, and reduced mobility and function over time.
Stem cell therapy taps into the body’s natural healing power to repair and slow down the deterioration of tissues, such as cartilage.
For knee OA, the goal of stem cell therapy is to:
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Repair and preserve the damaged cartilage
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Reduce inflammation and alleviate pain
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Potentially delay or prevent the need for knee replacement surgery
The treatment process is straightforward:
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A small sample of blood is taken, typically from the arm.
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Stem cells are concentrated from the blood sample.
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These concentrated stem cells are then injected into the knee to promote healing and reduce pain.
Stem cell therapy involves the use of undifferentiated cells that have the remarkable ability to transform into various cell types, promoting tissue repair and regeneration. In the context of osteoarthritis, this innovative approach aims to harness the regenerative potential of stem cells to restore damaged cartilage and alleviate pain.
One of the primary improvements observed after stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis is the mitigation of pain and inflammation. Stem cells possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with osteoarthritic joints. This not only enhances the quality of life for patients but also provides a more holistic and enduring solution compared to conventional pain management methods.
Moreover, studies have indicated that stem cell therapy contributes to the restoration of joint function. The implanted stem cells can differentiate into chondrocytes, the specialized cells responsible for cartilage formation. This regeneration of cartilage tissue enhances joint mobility and functionality, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with reduced limitations.
Beyond symptomatic relief, stem cell therapy exhibits a potential for slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis. By addressing the underlying cause of cartilage deterioration, this therapeutic approach aims to impede the advancement of the disease, offering a prospect of long-term joint health.
Statistics Of Overall Improvement of Osteoarthritis Through Stem Cell Therapy
Viezec Stem Cell Institute is India’s leading stem cell clinic that provides our patients access to advanced treatments and innovative technology because we believe in patient empowerment. Our primary goal is to give you access to India’s highest-quality stem cell treatments. Our origins are in medical tourism services, and because of that, we have honed in on making the patient experience as pleasant, comfortable, and convenient as possible.
At, Viezec, we’ll make sure that our team and doctors use the most sophisticated equipment to give you the best quality of treatment. We promise we will never compromise on safety, and our medications will be conducted by the most exemplary safety & quality control standards. We are flexible with any schedule for our patients and can even offer unique off-site accommodation & travel assistance services.
For more information, tap here.
FAQs
What is stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis, and how does it work?
Stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis involves using the body’s own regenerative cells to repair damaged cartilage. These stem cells help reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and potentially slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
Is stem cell therapy effective for all stages of osteoarthritis?
Stem cell therapy can be beneficial for individuals in early to moderate stages of osteoarthritis. It may help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and delay the need for more invasive treatments like surgery, but it may have limited effectiveness in advanced stages.
What are the risks of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis?
Although stem cell therapy is generally safe, there may be minor risks, including infection, allergic reactions, or the possibility that the therapy may not provide the desired results. It’s important to consult with a specialist to evaluate potential risks and benefits.
How long does it take to see results from stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis?
Results can vary, but most patients start noticing improvements in pain relief and mobility within 3 to 6 months after treatment. Full benefits may take up to a year to manifest, depending on individual response.
Will stem cell therapy eliminate the need for joint replacement surgery in osteoarthritis?
Stem cell therapy may delay or reduce the need for joint replacement surgery by improving cartilage health and reducing symptoms. However, it may not fully prevent the need for surgery, especially in severe cases of osteoarthritis.
What Are the Other Treatments for Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis treatment plans are tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs, lifestyle, and overall health. The primary goals of treatment are:
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Pain control
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Improving joint function
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Maintaining a healthy body weight
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Promoting a healthy lifestyle
Treatment options may include:
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Exercise to strengthen joints and improve mobility
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Weight management and diet with a focus on low saturated fats and high fiber-rich foods, including fruits and vegetables. Certain nutritional supplements may also be beneficial.
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Rest and joint care to reduce strain on affected areas
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Non-drug pain relief techniques, such as hot/cold therapy, physical therapy, or acupuncture
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Medications to manage pain and inflammation
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Complementary and alternative therapies, like chiropractic care or massage, which may offer additional relief
Osteoarthritis Patient Stories
Saeed Hanafi From UAE Underwent Stem Cell Therapy For The Treatment Of Osteoarthritis
I underwent osteoarthritis treatment, which was much safer than other surgery. I was given shots in my joint and knee area and went through the process in just a few days. The recovery time was much better than expected and was much less painful than I thought it would be
Prashant Dhal from Canada came to India for the treatment of osteoarthritis
My name is Prashant. I visited India regarding orthopaedic treatment. After undergoing treatment at Viezec, all I can say about the hospital is that it is highly professional. I am thrilled with the treatment part
Jennifer Came India for Stem Cell Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Jennifer has suffered from advanced osteoarthritis in both of her knees for last 9 years. She had tried several customary treatments options to try to alleviate the pain. Ms. Jennifer had until that time tried physical therapy, bracing, chiropractic treatments, massage
Chapel from Brazil Came India for Stem Cell Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Chapel from Brazil has always been active in sports and a workout fanatic. In 2010, a wear on his left knee had instigated the condition of ACL. Chapel has referred an orthopedic surgeon
Read More Osteoarthritis Patient Success Stories
Treatment Results Of Osteoarthritis at Viezec
At the Viezec Stem Cell Institute, groundbreaking advancements in the treatment of osteoarthritis have yielded promising results, offering hope to patients grappling with the debilitating effects of this degenerative joint condition. Osteoarthritis, characterized by the gradual deterioration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, has long posed a significant medical challenge. Viezec Stem Cell Institute, at the forefront of regenerative medicine, employs innovative stem cell therapies to address the root causes of osteoarthritis, aiming for not just symptomatic relief but also structural regeneration.
Through rigorous research and clinical trials, the institute has demonstrated notable success in leveraging the regenerative potential of stem cells to repair damaged cartilage and enhance joint function. Patients undergoing stem cell treatments at Viezec report significant improvements in pain reduction, increased joint flexibility, and enhanced overall mobility. The regenerative nature of stem cells offers a unique approach, targeting the underlying pathology rather than merely mitigating symptoms.
Viezec’s comprehensive and personalized treatment plans take into account the specific needs of each patient, ensuring a tailored approach for optimal results. The institute’s commitment to cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practices has positioned it as a leader in the field of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis. As treatment outcomes continue to be monitored and refined, Viezec Stem Cell Institute stands as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking effective, long-lasting solutions to the challenges posed by osteoarthritis.
Want to read more results, watch videos
Certificate of Analysis for Osteoarthritis Patient
Before the therapy process, all cells are screened for infection to avoid contamination. To ensure the quality of the treatment, we examine the medium wherein stem cells are to be harvested, preserved, and delivered. To successfully uphold our commitment to providing the highest quality treatment, the final wash of the stem cell source is checked for aerobic and anaerobic microbes. In addition, rules include an endotoxin test that permits only batches with a quantity less than the given threshold to qualify. Finally, every set of cells comes with a certificate of analysis to affirm the quality of work.
Want to learn more about the therapy, then click here.
Osteoarthritis Happy Patient Video’s
Brother of Kipa Nakup Arunachal Pradesh, India Hip Osteoarthritis by Stem Cell Therapy..Watch Video
Mr Kipa Nakup from Arunachal Pradesh Came Delhi for Hip Osteoarthritis Stem Cell Treatment..Watch Video
Somnath Roy From Kolkata Came to Stem Cell Care India for Orthopedic Disorder..Watch Video
Osteoarthritis Stem Cell Treatment..Watch Video
Ahead of undergoing this process; a patient needs to understands that stem cell therapy is an experimental therapy that might not work at certain times. At the time of procedure, a patient might be refused the treatment or the proposed protocol might change depending on the patient’s health condition.
At Viezec Stem Cell Institute, our main motive is to give the best technology and safety available; of which has been proven across the globe.
As with any medical treatment, there are no guarantees or claims of cures are made as to the extent of the response to treatment. Every patient has different internal status of body; hence results vary from patient to patient, even with a similar diagnosis. This means that we cannot offer, infer or suggest that there is any certainty of a given outcome. For our any treatment we do not use embryonic or fetal cells.
Clinical Trials with Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies for Osteoarthritis
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Authors: Josiane Dantas Viana Barbosa, Milena Botelho Pereira Soares, Gonçalo Moniz
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Published: June 9, 2023
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Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Efficacy and Safety of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Knee Osteoarthritis
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Authors: Kim et al.
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Published: April 2025
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Journal: Stem Cell Research
Intra-Articular Injection of Autologous Culture-Expanded Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Knee Osteoarthritis
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Authors: Lee WS, Kim HJ, Kim KI, Kim GB, Jin W
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Published: June 2023
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Journal: Stem Cells Translational Medicine
Exploring the Potential of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Osteoarthritis Treatment
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Published: 2024
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Journal: ScienceDirect
Culture-Expanded Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy: Does It Work in Osteoarthritis?
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Published: 2023
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Journal: Nature Reviews Rheumatology
Multicenter Trial of Stem Cell Therapy for Osteoarthritis (MILES)
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Published: 2023
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Journal: ClinicalTrials.gov
Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Chronic Knee Pain Secondary to Osteoarthritis
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Published: 2023
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Journal: Osteoarthritis and Cartilage
Current Evidence on Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Hip Osteoarthritis
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Published: 2023
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Journal: Future Medicine
Intra-Articular Injection of Stem Cells for the Regeneration of Knee Cartilage in Osteoarthritis
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Published: 2023
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Journal: Biomolecules & Therapeutics
Evaluation of Spin in Clinical Trials of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Knee Osteoarthritis
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Published: 2024
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Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine