How Long Does Stem Cell Therapy Last for Knees?

How Long Does Stem Cell Therapy Last for Knees?

A very common question we get is ” How long does Stem Cell Therapy last for Knees? ” for those seeking this alternative treatment for the management of their knee pain. But first, we will discuss what can be behind the knee pain as a cause, who to seek a medical diagnosis, and what options a patient has. 

What Can Cause Knee Pain?

Knee pain can have various causes, leading to discomfort and limitations in daily activities. One common cause is injuries, which can occur from sudden trauma or repetitive strain. Sprains, strains, ligament tears (like the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL tears), meniscus tears, fractures, or dislocations can result in knee pain.

Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis often affect the knee joint. Over time, the protective cartilage on the ends of the bones wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, can also lead to knee pain due to joint inflammation.

Tendinitis, characterized by inflammation or irritation of the tendons around the knee, is typically caused by overuse or repetitive stress. Bursitis, another inflammatory condition, occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) between bones, tendons, and muscles become inflamed.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome refers to pain around or behind the kneecap and is often caused by overuse, muscle imbalances, or improper tracking of the kneecap. IT band syndrome, on the other hand, arises from irritation or inflammation of the IT band along the outer thigh and can cause outer knee pain.

Conditions such as gout, marked by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, can lead to sudden and severe knee pain, redness, and swelling. Infections, though rare, can also cause knee pain, with symptoms including warmth, redness, and swelling.

Additional factors contributing to knee pain include ligamentous or muscular strains, bone tumors, obesity, poor biomechanics, or referred pain from other parts of the body.

If you are experiencing persistent or worsening knee pain, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis so to better help the treatment planning.

Who Do I See if I Have Knee Pain?

If you have knee pain, there are several healthcare professionals you can consult with for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. The appropriate healthcare provider may depend on your specific situation and the severity of your knee pain. Here are some specialists who commonly deal with knee-related issues:

Primary care physician (PCP): Your first step is often to see your primary care physician. They can assess your knee pain, perform a physical examination, and provide initial treatment or refer you to a specialist if needed.

Orthopedic specialist: Orthopedic doctors specialize in the musculoskeletal system and commonly treat knee pain and related conditions. They can diagnose the underlying cause of your knee pain, recommend imaging tests, if necessary (such as X-rays or MRI), and provide both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options.

Rheumatologist: If your knee pain is suspected to be related to inflammatory or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, a rheumatologist can provide expertise in diagnosing and managing such conditions.

Sports medicine specialist: These specialists focus on injuries and conditions related to sports and physical activity. If your knee pain is sports-related or if you have an active lifestyle, a sports medicine specialist can help with diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Physical therapist: Physical therapists can be involved in the treatment of knee pain, especially for rehabilitation and strengthening exercises. They can provide exercises, stretches, and techniques to improve knee function and reduce pain.

Pain management specialist: If your knee pain is chronic and not easily managed with conventional treatments, a pain management specialist can provide additional options such as medications, injections, or other interventional procedures to alleviate pain.

Are There Alternative Medicine Treatments for Helping with Knee Pain?

Yes, there are alternative medicine treatments that some individuals may consider for helping with knee pain. These alternative approaches focus on holistic and natural methods to address pain and promote overall well-being. While they may not be suitable or effective for everyone, some people find them helpful as complementary or adjunct therapies. Here are a few alternative medicine treatments that are sometimes used for knee pain:

Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture is believed to stimulate energy flow and promote pain relief and healing. Some people report reduced knee pain and improved function with acupuncture.

Herbal remedies: Certain herbs and botanicals are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used topically or taken orally to alleviate knee pain. Examples include turmeric, ginger, Boswellia, and willow bark. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, as they can interact with medications and have potential side effects.

Topical creams and ointments: Various topical preparations containing natural ingredients like arnica, menthol, capsaicin, or essential oils are available and can be applied to the knee to provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.

Mind-body techniques: Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and tai chi can help manage knee pain by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, improving flexibility, and enhancing body awareness. These techniques may also improve overall physical and mental well-being.

Physical therapies: Alternative physical therapies like chiropractic care, osteopathy, or naturopathy may incorporate manual techniques, stretching, manipulation, or mobilization to address knee pain. These approaches often aim to enhance joint mobility, improve alignment, and reduce pain.

Regenerative Medicine: Also known as stem cell therapy, this regenerative medicine utilizes mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for joint pain by promoting healing, repair, and regeneration of damaged joint tissues. 

What is MSC Therapy for Knee Pain?

MSC (mesenchymal stem cell) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that has gained attention as a potential treatment for knee pain and knee-related conditions. MSCs are multipotent cells that have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including bone, cartilage, and fat cells. They also possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Most people ask the question of ” How long does Stem Cell Therapy for knees last? ” With MSC Therapy for Knee Pain in mind.

The goal of MSC therapy is to promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and potentially slow down the progression of conditions such as osteoarthritis. By injecting MSCs into the knee joint, it is believed that the cells can stimulate the repair of damaged tissues, enhance cartilage regeneration, and modulate the immune response, thereby reducing pain and improving function.If you are considering MSC therapy for knee pain, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in regenerative medicine. They can assess your specific situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and provide guidance on whether MSC therapy is appropriate for you as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Looking to inquire further about how long does stem cell therapy last for knees, contact us at Stemedix today.

Can CBD Oil Combat Arthritis Pain?

Can CBD Oil Combat Arthritis Pain?

CBD oil has been appearing everywhere we look recently, and its popularity doesn’t seem to be disappearing any time soon. Known officially as cannabidiol, the compound is found in the marijuana plant and has been associated with a broad range of claims to boost health. Indeed, everything from promoting heart wellness to reducing acne has been credited to CBD oil — but is there really any evidence to back up these claims? While further research needs to be done to support many of these positions, one area that shows promise is CBD’s ability to relieve arthritis pain.

Arthritis: Common Yet Challenging

More than 54 million adults have been diagnosed with at least one type of arthritis, but it’s possible that there are many individuals living with the condition. Despite the fact that it’s very common, there is still no cure for arthritis, and it can be notoriously difficult to treat. Although medications are available for controlling symptoms, many have their own host of side effects. And, the pain caused by this joint condition can range from mildly uncomfortable to debilitating.

Where CBD Oil Comes In

CBD oil has the powerful ability to stimulate brain activity by interacting with cannabinoid receptor types 1 and 2, which are involved with the immune system, to decrease the effects of pain and inflammation. Yet, it doesn’t have the same psychoactive effects as marijuana and is thus considered a worthwhile alternative for arthritis patients seeking a natural solution without side effects for managing pain. The World Health Organization reports that CBD exhibits no indication of the potential for abuse or dependence and that there is no evidence of health-related issues resulting from pure CBD. But has it been proven effective for treating arthritis pain?

The research seems to say yes. In a study from the European Journal of Pain, topical CBD oil showed reduced inflammation and pain caused by arthritis. Research has also confirmed that CBD inhibits inflammatory and neuropathic pain, both of which are especially difficult to treat. In individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, controlled trials have shown that cannabis-medications can significantly improve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of sleep.

If you’re experiencing chronic pain from arthritis, CBD could be the key to enjoying more pain-free days. Of course, quality is important to ensure optimal results, please visit our website to see available Charlotte’s Web products.

 

Could Sunshine Help Prevent Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Could Sunshine Help Prevent Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

In recent decades, our awareness of the potential damage UV rays can do has increased tremendously. The UV radiation is a known carcinogen, as the link between long-term sun exposure and increased skin cancer risk is irrefutable. Yet, the link isn’t as straightforward as we may think, as age and genetic factors are also suspected to play a role in skin cancer risks, in addition to sun exposure.

And, it turns that moderate sun exposure may even have some health benefits. For instance, it helps trigger the production of important hormones, may help reduce the risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and helps the body create vitamin D. Recent research has even shown that it could decrease the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The Sunshine & IBD Link

In a study conducted by The Australian National University, children who spent half an hour outside each day appeared to have a lower risk of IBD. More than 800,000 people have chronic disorders encompassed by IBD, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The risk in children who were exposed to sunlight was almost 20% lower than in their peers.

While the half-hour window seems to hold the most promising results, even short periods of sun exposure were linked with a reduced risk of IBD. In fact, the study’s lead professor notes that every 10 minutes of sun exposure resulted in a 6% drop in the child’s risk for developing the condition. This has led the researchers to the conclusion that there is an association between lack of sun exposure and increased IBD risk.

Although experts have already determined that sunlight does play a role in immune system functionality in ways that could lower one’s risk for IBD, the precise mechanisms still have yet to be determined. IBD is becoming more common in children, so this eye-opening discovery could be a worthwhile preventive tactic to explore.

Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean children should forego sunscreen entirely, especially since there’s evidence to suggest that sun exposure during youth could contribute most to skin cancer. Thus, it’s still a good idea for people of all ages to stay protected with an SPF of 15 or higher when spending extended periods of time outdoors.

 

What is the Arthritis Diet?

What is the Arthritis Diet?

While arthritis is a chronic condition for which there is no cure, certain dietary changes can help to alleviate its symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving bone strength, and boosting the immune system. Following the anti-inflammatory arthritis diet recommended by the Arthritis Foundation Discover could help you control your joint pain and stiffness, along with other therapies. Discover which foods to prioritize, and just as importantly, which to avoid, in honor of National Arthritis Awareness Month this May.

The Anti-Inflammatory Arthritis Diet

Although there is no prescriptive diet recommended for people with arthritis to follow exclusively, the low-inflammatory Mediterranean diet has been shown in numerous studies to reduce pain and increase physical function in certain types of arthritis, including Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The Mediterranean diet emphasizes vegetables and fish, along with olive oils and other foods that can help control inflammation. Here are a few foods to consider eating regularly:

  • Fish: Salmon, tuna, sardines, and other cold-water fish have high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for fighting inflammation.
  • Colorful Fruits & Vegetables: Packed with antioxidants which support a healthy immune system and may combat inflammation, heavily pigmented produce like blueberries, blackberries, cherries, spinach, broccoli, and kale are great foods for filling your plate and snacking between meals.
  • Nuts & Seeds: Monounsaturated fats found in pistachios, almonds, pine nuts, and walnuts are excellent for reducing swelling in the joints. Plus, they’re filled with fiber to help keep you full.
  • Beans: Varieties like pinto, black, and garbanzo beans have both antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, along with a high dose of powerful vitamins and minerals.
  • Olive Oil: A perfect addition to salad greens, extra virgin olive oil is minimally processed and a heart-healthy source of fats. It also contains oleocanthal, a compound known for reducing pain and inflammation.

3 Inflammation Triggers to Avoid or Minimize

While eating inflammation-fighting foods can help reduce swelling and pain in the joints, it’s important not to counteract the effects of your healthy dietary choices with foods known to trigger inflammation. Here are a few foods to avoid or have sparingly:

  • Added Sugars: Unlike the natural sugars found in the fruits listed above, processed sugars can spur the release of cytokines, the body’s inflammatory messengers. Avoid any packaged or prepared foods with ingredients ending in “-ose” on the label.
  • Saturated Fats: These fats are known for aggravating arthritis inflammation. Full-fat dairy, red meat, pasta, pizza, and many desserts are high in saturated fat, so try to reduce your consumption of these foods for better arthritis management.
  • Trans Fats: Meat and dairy contain trace amounts of trans fat, but it’s mostly found in foods as a result of a process that adds hydrogen to vegetable oil. Not only does this dangerous fat raise “bad” cholesterol levels, but it can also trigger inflammation. Steer clear of margarine, nondairy creamer, fried foods, and chips and baked goods with trans-fat.

While making dietary modifications to improve arthritis symptoms may seem daunting at first, the changes are worth making. Not only do the suggestions above help to control pain and swelling in the joints, but they can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle overall. If you’re considering an arthritis diet, consider speaking with your doctor about the best dietary choices to benefit your specific condition.

5 Illnesses Associated with Low Vitamin D

5 Illnesses Associated with Low Vitamin D

At some point or another, you’ve probably heard about the importance of getting enough vitamin D. This nutrient helps us stay healthy at every age, supporting the body’s ability to absorb calcium and block parathyroid hormone release to support strong bones. Yet, outside of promoting bone strength, vitamin D could also help us combat potentially serious illnesses. Below are five health issues which have been linked to low vitamin D levels.

1 Schizophrenia

Unlike many of the other conditions on this list, schizophrenia is a condition which typically appears at a younger age. Symptoms such as social withdrawal, difficulty focusing, and hallucinations commonly develop between the ages of 16 and 30. Research shows people who are vitamin D deficient are twice as likely to be diagnosed, and specifically, individuals living in high latitudes and colder climates are at a higher risk for developing schizophrenia.

2 Dementia

The risk for some forms of dementia, the condition in which cognitive function, behavior, and memory are compromised, is as much as two times higher in older adults with vitamin D deficiencies. Research shows that the greater the deficiency is, the higher the risk. While a direct cause-and-effect relationship has yet to be established, having vitamin D levels checked may still be a practice worth considering, especially in groups with a family history of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

3 Heart Disease

Low vitamin D blood levels have been linked to cardiovascular complications, including heart disease. Vitamin D is involved in cardiovascular function, and vitamin D receptors have been found in all cardiovascular cells and are even located in arterial walls. It’s suspected that insufficient levels of the nutrient are correlated with atherosclerosis, a build-up of fat in the artery walls which is a telltale characteristic of heart disease.

4 Erectile Dysfunction

Men with severe erectile dysfunction (ED) appear to have lower vitamin D levels than those with mild ED. While these findings were gathered through a small study, researchers theorize that the relationship between vitamin D and artery health (described in the point above) could be behind the trend. To produce and maintain an erection, there must be ample blood flow and properly functioning arteries.

5 Prostate Cancer

In a study published in 2014, researchers observed lower vitamin D levels in men who tested positive for prostate cancer, compared to their cancer-free peers. The trend was especially prevalent among African-American men. While the research didn’t suggest how vitamin D levels could lead to prostate cancer, the nutrient has been a suspected disease-fighting agent for quite some time and is said to also help reduce the risk of conditions such as multiple sclerosis and the flu virus.

While there’s still much to learn about vitamin D’s ability to defend against disease and promote better overall mental and physical health, these findings make a compelling case in the nutrient’s favor. Because the body can’t produce its own vitamin D without sunlight exposure or dietary factors, it’s important to make sure you’re taking in ample levels every day. Populations across the globe are suffering from low vitamin D, which could be attributed to dietary factors and increasing sun safety awareness. If you’re concerned about your levels, consider discussing supplementation options with your medical team.

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