Injections for Joint Pain, Arthritis, Tendinitis & More
Many patients with debilitating knee osteoarthritis find that treatment options are limited: steroid injections, joint replacement surgery (and replacement alternatives), physical therapy, etc. At the Karlfeldt Center, new cutting-edge treatment options like amniotic membrane stem cell injections may be used to successfully treat patients with knee osteoarthritis, Achilles tendinitis, rotator cuff tendinitis, and degenerative arthritis.
For clarification, this type of stem cell comes from the amniotic sac – not an embryo. While some people may have ethical issues with embryonic stem cell therapy, almost everyone agrees that the use of amniotic stem cell therapy raises no ethical or moral questions. Our amniotic stem cells are sourced from consenting donors (who have undergone a rigorous screening process) after the healthy baby is born.
How does it work?
Amniotic tissue is rich in biologically active factors which have many regenerative qualities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, re-epithelialization, and anti-fibrotic properties. Amniotic stem cells, derived from the amniotic sac, can potentially become any of a variety of different cells. Blood, skin, and bone cells are all derived from amniotic cells. Together with the body’s already incredible ability to repair itself, stem cell treatments take advantage of this potentiality, going far beyond traditional “injection therapy.”
A qualified physician injects the amniotic tissues directly into the affected joint. We use ultrasound technology to pinpoint the exact location where the injection will be most effective. The anti-inflammatory properties of amniotic stem cells are similar to cortisone and steroid shots but naturally stimulate a response of the body’s own healing ability. The stem cells work to provide relief from pain in conjunction with hyaluronic acid, which eases pain and restores mobility by lubricating joints and tendons.
The standard treatment for osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and degenerative arthritis is typically cortisone or other drugs. These can provide short-term relief but do not allow the body to repair itself. Amniotic stem cells contain specific growth factors that may actually replace the damaged cells with healthy ones.
What are the benefits?
This therapy is extremely safe and effective. Benefits include:
- Amniotic stem cells do not contain steroids. Instead, they rely on naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents, such as cytokines and extracellular matrix components.
- Hyaluronic acid is a key component, providing lubrication for cartilage and promoting new cartilage growth.
- Amniotic stem cells actually stimulate tissue regeneration through growth factors.
- Amniotic stem cells contain anti-inflammatory properties that work within the body to heal.
- Because of the nature of amniotic stem cells, there is minimal risk of rejection.
- Amniotic fluid is the most highly concentrated source of stem cells. This makes them preferable over embryonic and the patient’s own stem cells (from fat or bone marrow).
Is it safe?
Yes! More than 10,000 injections have been performed without a single reported adverse side effect.
- Amniotic stem cell therapy is a preferred type of stem cell therapy. The cells come from an immuno-privileged site, which means that patient rejection is extremely rare.
- Amniotic stem cell use is well-researched, safe, and effective. They have been used by ophthalmologists and plastic surgeons for about 20 years.
- All donors go through a rigorous screening process, determined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB).
Am I a candidate for stem cell treatment at the Karlfeldt Center?
Patients suffering from any kind of joint, tendon, or ligament pain may be considered as candidates for this type of therapy at the Karlfeldt Center. Some patients with severe degenerative osteoarthritis may not be eligible.
To schedule a stem cell consultation with our orthopedic doctor for joint, tendon, and ligament injuries, please contact us.
