Stem cell therapy is a progressive orthopedic treatment that can provide positive results for some patients with musculoskeletal problems like soft tissue tears and arthritis. A form of regenerative medicine, stem cell treatment leverages the natural restorative abilities of regenerative growth factors and stem cells to promote healing in damaged joints and tissues. It is performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients can return home immediately following treatment.
Let’s take a brief look at what stem cell treatment involves:
- Stem cells are withdrawn from the patient’s own blood marrow or adipose tissue using a thin needle and a local anesthetic. Stem cells from amniotic fluid may also be used.
- The stem cells are prepared in a machine called a centrifuge to increase their concentration and potential for effectiveness.
- A local anesthetic is administered and the prepared stem cells are injected into the injured area to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms and promote new tissue growth.
As its name suggests, stem cell therapy utilizes stem cells—renewable cells in the body that are sometimes able to transform into other types of cells, including muscle and bone cells, and help facilitate the healing process. When concentrated and delivered directly into damaged soft tissue or a joint, stem cells may reduce harmful inflammation, accelerate healing, and potentially form new, healthy cells.
The frequency and longevity of stem cell therapy varies on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, one stem cell injection can provide pain relief for a year or longer.
Is Stem Cell Treatment Right For Me?
It’s important to mention that stem cell therapy is not right for everyone, and it doesn’t always produce desired results. When it is effective, however, stem cell therapy can help patients delay or avoid the need for surgery and enjoy a better quality of life.
Only an orthopedic physician can determine if stem cell injection is a viable treatment option for you. In general, though, stem cell therapy may be recommended to some patients with the following musculoskeletal issues:
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteonecrosis
- Bone fractures
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Ligament or tendon injuries, such as rotator cuff tears, tennis elbow, meniscus tears, and labral tears
Stem Cell Therapy at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine
If you live in the Tampa, Florida, area and are interested in learning more about the potential benefits of stem cell therapy, turn to Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group—a division of Florida Medical Clinic and the longest-operating orthopedic practice in the city. Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group is led by board-certified specialists who provide stem cell treatment using amniotic fluid from elective C-section births. Other forms of regenerative medicine, including platelet rich plasma therapy, are also available.
Contact us today! Our friendly professionals will be happy to schedule you an appointment, or you can request an appointment online at your convenience. Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group accepts most health insurance plans and serves adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout the Tampa Bay area.
