All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. Data were extracted independently by 2 researchers using a predesigned data sheet. Valid data were converted as per the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions,[14] in the case where standard deviation could not be acquired. If disagreements occurred, the decision regarding data extraction was done by the third reviewer.
A phase I study from a European consortium demonstrated in a preliminary series of 18 patients that adipose-derived MSCs reduced pain and function subscales of the WOMAC at 6 months’ follow-up [58]. With small and likely underpowered sample sizes in mind, they found no significant differences in clinical outcome based on dose escalation from 2 × 10 [6] to 50 × 10 [6] cells/injection. Enrollment for a placebo-controlled, double-blind phase II study is now underway. In a double-blinded randomized controlled trial, Song et al. reported similar positive clinical outcomes in a dose-dependent matter [57].
Have you ever wondered if stem cell therapy could be a viable option for treating knee pain? Many individuals have turned to this innovative treatment in hopes of finding relief from chronic knee issues. Stem cell therapy involves using stem cells to help regenerate and repair damaged tissues in the body, including the knees.
The Science Behind Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells are unique cells in the body that have the ability to develop into different types of cells, such as muscle, bone, or cartilage cells. When injected into the knee joint, these stem cells can help stimulate the body’s natural healing process and promote tissue regeneration. This can potentially help reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and alleviate pain in the knee.
Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Pain
A recent analysis of all relevant published studies indicates that stem cell transplantation from different sources is effective for treating knee osteoarthritis, the most prevalent chronic joint disease. Overall, people being treated with any of the stem cells experienced a significant decrease in knee pain starting at three months of treatment, underscoring the potential of the therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Instead, orthobiologic therapy for knee pain most commonly uses stem cells from adult patients themselves by taking samples of bone marrow and other tissues. Throughout our history, human have been blessed with the power of reasoning,memory,imagination and intellect. In the last 100 years mankind has finally started understanding the fundamentals of medical science and in the process, created a revolutionary new field known as regenerative medicine.
During treatment, a doctor will take samples of stem cells from other parts of your body and reimplant them into an injured area. For knee pain, that may involve taking sample cells from bone marrow or fat tissue and injecting them into knee joints. Multiple studies have shown that stem cell injections can significantly reduce chronic knee pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis.
In 2002, the first publication with regards to OA treatment with autologous, bone marrow-derived MSCs appeared. A significant improvement was reported, because between 5 and 135 months of follow-up, no tumors or infections were observed [49]. In 2003, the first large animal model of OA, caprine, was used for studies of MSC transplantation. Twenty weeks after injection, the reduction in OA symptoms was noticeable with less subchondral sclerosis, a remodeling of the articular cartilage, and fewer osteophytes [49].
Given that the stem cell-treated knee was no better than the control-treated knee — both were significantly better than before the study began — the researchers say the stem cells’ effectiveness remains somewhat uninterpretable. They are only able to conclude the procedure is safe to undergo as an option for knee pain, but they cannot yet recommend it for routine arthritis care. There is evidence that stem cell treatments work by triggering damaged tissues in the body to repair themselves. As of 2020, the FDA has only approved stem cell treatment for a few kinds of diseases, including some cancers and blood disorders.
One of the main benefits of stem cell therapy for knee pain is that it is a minimally invasive procedure, with a relatively quick recovery time compared to traditional surgeries. Additionally, since stem cells are derived from the patient’s own body, there is a lower risk of rejection or side effects. Many individuals have reported significant improvements in their knee pain and function after undergoing stem cell therapy.
Overall, stem cell therapy holds promise as a natural and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from knee pain. If you are considering this treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you. With further research and advancements in stem cell technology, more individuals may find relief from their knee pain through this innovative therapy.
